talkmagic.co.uk

If doing a stand up show, my normal opener is the silent treatment.
I do NOT reval with CFM. I incorporate magician in trouble into it also.
I normally use the a the BIG switch from Martin Lewis for the final reveal.
Now, I might do sticky situation, a 10 second effect, right before it, but the 1st card trick I do is ST for a couple reasons:
First, one card force
Second, a ton of laughs and all you do is flip pages
Third, it lets them know that you are not the ordinary "pick a card"
person.
Fourth, the kicker at the end can show a nice little illusion. For example, reverse prediction, moving point. You might even bring out your Insurance policy.
Obvoiusly, the reveal can't be TOO strong, agreed?

I normally start with the ID - with them shuffling a non existent pack of cards - it may be cliche, but it sure as hell works and makes me different from the rest.

Too many magician's say "never open with the ID"!

That's what makes me different...my stronger stuff is yet to come (oooh...err)

*tries to find the remote control to turn down beardy's ego*

nope..can't find it...

hehe...

I recently purchased Andrew Murray's Thirteen DVD (which is imo wonderful) and I'm thinking of starting by opening a new pack of bikes (or borrow from a spectator if possible) have the spectator shuffle as much as he/she wants and then perform "Twins". Great effect (also his take on OOTW is great and I will use this one from now on)

Now, if table hopping, I'd do royal scam.