Nique Tan – The Assignment Prediction (TAP)

This is not so much an effect in itself, but a concept and a simple, logical piece of script that enables you to perform seemingly fair-looking and direct prediction routines, with variables that are apparently freely provided by audience members. This was originally conceived for live performances; however it is discussed in this write-up as adapted for Nique Tan's virtual show, "Nique Tan: Online".

The Effect:

At the end of the show, the performer calls attention to 12 attendees. He tells everyone that before the show, he gave each of them a special assignment via private messages, while disseminating the Zoom meeting joining details to them.

They were each asked to take a piece of paper, write down a random 6 digit number and to have that piece of paper ready with them for the end of the show. Each of the 12 attendees verifies this to be true and can quickly flash their pieces of paper to their screens. All the numbers are seen to be different and random.

One of these 12 attendees is now chosen via any procedure the performer wishes to use. The chosen spectator now announces his random number to everyone and shows it written on his piece of paper. The performer can now show this number to have been predicted, or use it in any way he so chooses.

NOTE: IN THE INTERESTS OF FULL DISCLOSURE

This is not suitable for close up performances. It was created specifically for online and live stage shows. TAP combines two classic mentalism strategies in an extremely simple, direct and deceptive manner. Rest assured that even if you have avoided such methods in the past, their use within the context(s) for which TAP was designed is fully justified – not to mention a joy to execute.

Opinions:

"I've had the privilege of viewing Nique's online show and can tell you – he knows how to deliver the goods! Performances over Zoom etc. present unique challenges, but TAP elegantly capitalizes on the distinct opportunities such platforms provide. The idea Nique outlines within this manuscript is greater than the sum of its parts and will open up a world of possibilities for mystery entertainers navigating this new era of virtual performances!" - Drew Backenstoss

"Nique composed here several methods and added a significant step that together creates an amazing and very strong effect. This is an excellent solution for zoom performances, and of course for live shows. I really liked his thinking and how he goes into the details. This is a combination of simplicity and sophistication that comes from an experienced professional mentalist." - Haim Goldenberg

"TAP is a sure fire way to know exactly what a spectator is thinking. This can be used in Zoom shows or live shows. It is something I will be using; everything seems super fair and nobody will have any idea how you TAPPED into your spectator's mind." - Maarten Bosmans

"TAP is a fantastic concept that can be applied to any live and online show. The script is very well thought out and the possibilities are endless. This is a real worker!" - Luca Volpe