In 2009 Darwin Ortiz came to London specifically to see the Rene Lavand performances at our MacMillan Convention. Knowing he was attending, I arranged for slot a lecture in the day after the convention. The lecture was incredible, watching this confirmed what many magicians already knew, Darwin Ortiz is one of the top experts on card magic in the world. His many books give information and routines that card experts the world over prize, this lecture is packed with information and tips, whether it be on presentation or the thinking for powerful magic, it's all here along with six of the most powerful card routines fully presented and taught in detail.

The routines shown and explained are

Fast Company: A wonderful interpretation of "Triumph" with a surprising climax.

Sudden Impact: Pit Hanging's original effect "Finger Flicker" receives an impromptu make over with no loss in effect or audience impact and can be performed with a borrowed deck.

Card Sense: This routine is a wonderful study in how to maximize audience impact when using The Memorized deck.

Calculated Risk: Here is a routine which is a proposition bet and could win you a lot of money; it is machiavellian and ingenious in its methodology. It appeals on many levels because your audience will feel the odds are in their favour.

The Uninvited Guest by Mark Ennis: This routine has been audience tested by Darwin and the effect is a miraculous vanish and reappearance of a playing card under test conditions. Mark Ennis graciously allowed Darwin to include his routine in his lecture.

Fast and Furious: Darwin's love affair with "Triumph" has been expanded in this fantastic presentation. This routine exploits a well-known principle and audience participation to extend the possibility of the classic plot. The climax to the routine is an impossibility which takes this effect into another dimension. If you have any of Darwin's books, this lecture will be a perfect companion to his fantastic legacy of work.

The material represents an inspirational creator at work and our job is to emulate the work of this great teacher so that we as performers can experience the thrill that great magic can generate.

It is a great privilege to be associated with this wonderful artist, our hope is that Darwin's work inspires you to raise your standard and continue the chain of excellence.

Running Time: Approximately 1hr 51min (Streamed Video)