We like magic.
Even when we question it.

The False Shuffle is a place to think about conjuring, performing, practising, and the peculiar pleasure of caring deeply about a pack of cards.

We take magic seriously. We try to take ourselves a little less seriously.

Expect thoughtful arguments, a bit of mischief, and a warm regard for the people who make this art possible. The aim is to leave you with a fresh idea and the urge to try it.

A word about the writing

These essays are developed with AI assistance and human editorial direction. They are published under the publication’s name. Examples are illustrative; they are not claims of personal performance experience.

When an article draws on research, a historical account, or someone else’s idea, it will identify its sources. We welcome disagreement in the spirit of making magic better.