There are many variations to the classic “Colour Monte” card trick marketed by Emerson & West.

Pirate Monte is an interesting presentation of Colour Monte that is suitable for both children and adults.

3 cards with treasure map backs are shown.  One card has a treasure chest on its face, and the other 2 cards have pirate’s flags on their faces.  When the cards are mixed up, the treasure chest could not be found.  Finally, a pirate makes his appearance on one of the flag cards.

2 other presentations are also shown and taught so that you can choose the one that you like best.  They are all based on the handling as used in the “Colour Monte”.

You are supplied with the 3 cards which are laminated to last for repeated use.  The 3 cards are nicely printed with a colourful picture of a pirate, a pirate’s flag and a treasure chest.  The instructions are provided in a DVD which also gives a bonus prediction effect that uses the 3 cards.  A blank wooden token is supplied which is used to indicate which one of the 3 cards that will be freely chosen by a spectator.  The performer is then able to show that his prediction is always correct.  The DVD contains the illustrated predictions that you can print out using your home printer.  Tim Sonefelt also teaches you how to age the predictions so they look authentically old.

The props that are supplied are all of very good quality.  They include a transparent wallet to contain the cards and the wooden token.  Everything comes inside a beautifully printed and laminated folder.

There is nothing new in terms of magical principles used.  However, the pirate’s theme and the quality props supplied give you something “new” to present to your audience.  You can use this effect for your children show as well.  (5/5 stars rating).