Could it have really all been a coincidence? Asi Wind’s latest release Catch 23 begs the question. Inspired by Gary Kurtz’s classic chair test, Asi has spent seven years perfecting and refining this modernized and deeply inexplicable routine.

Perfect for shows small and large, Asi’s Catch 23 creates a connection between the performer and the audience that few effects have the ability to do. Catch 23 has been an integral part of Asi’s live shows for years. Today he offers it to us. Asi’s creative ingenuity and passion for magic has advanced our art ten-fold. This newest addition to an overwhelming collection is nothing short of brilliant.

The Effect:

A performer invites four spectators to the stage. After cleanly showing five envelopes that have be previously marked “1-5,” each spectator is asked to make a decision which number envelope they’d like. This is a completely free choice. The performer having been left with the single envelope not selected, invites an audience member to remove its contents. Within, they’ll be astonished to find a check for the exact amount created by the envelope order of the participants on stage.

In addition, each volunteer is asked to open their selected envelops where a note card states a distinguishing feature about them (i.e. This will be selected by the only man in glasses). The effect culminates as the last envelope to be opened reveals the name of the participant who has made its selection.