Ross Bertram - A Very Sensitive Thumb

[David Ben]

As part of our promotion for Luminato, we taped a video piece for the press conference. Here is the link to the video clip:

http://www.magicana.com/luminato

I started this separate post because the sequence I perform is basically the one that I described in the Ross Bertram issue of Genii (Vol. 66, No. 3, March 2003, page 61.)

I made some slight modifications simply because I was blindfolded with duct tape and had to emphasize other points in the delivery. For those, however, who want to see what the Bertram move looks like, the clip should give you a good idea.

Interestingly, this was shot very quickly and the tape from the cameras used in the shoot handed over to the editor to assemble. When he assembled the clip, he cut out the "multiple shift" used to control the cards. (The editor knows nothing about magic.) Evidently he thought that the "multiple shift" sequence was not germane to the story.

Much to his surprise, I asked him to include it so that Genii Forum members interested in this trick could see how the "multiple shift" was used in it. (I make reference to the shift in the Genii article.)

Kind of weird, I know, but there you have it.

I should also mention for those who are interested in Ross Bertram that, pursuant to Richard's request, I am preparing a special lecture about Ross' coin magic for the Genii Bash in October. I will be performing and explaining the real work on many of Ross' most cherished creations. Hope to also see you there.

[Tom Dobrowolski]

Excellent! Enjoyed this. Thanks David!

First Tamariz lecturing and performing and now David Ben lecturing on Bertram and I can't make the convention! I could make virtually ANY other weekend this year...this is just TORTURE. I have to stop reading updates on the convention.

[Richard Kaufman]

You can make it, Tom. Just postpone that other activity.

[Tom Dobrowolski]

If I could, I would, unfortunately it's a work project that began 18 months ago and is culminating in a consolidation and conversion that weekend. I'm truly bummed I can't make it.

[Richard Kaufman]

Tell them you need to have a small medical procedure that weekend.

[Tom Dobrowolski]

Hmmmmm......now to pick a procedure :grin:

[Richard Kaufman]

Deviated Septum.
Colonoscopy.
Hemorrhoids.
It should be easy.

[Pete Biro]

Hernia transplant.

[Jim Martin]

Re-sensitizing a thumb?

[AnthonyBrahams]

Thanks, David. Great to see something of Ross B. Now to learn it!

[Bob Coyne]

That was a beautiful color change -- thanks for posting the clip!

[Bill McFadden]

Typically sublime. Thank you, David.