The Secret – Bold, Real-World Mentalism by Kenton Knepper

The Secret – Bold, Real-World Mentalism by Kenton Knepper

The Secret is not your typical mentalism effect — it’s deep, psychological, and powerful. Created by Kenton Knepper, with work from Bob Sheets and Allen Zingg, this routine has helped build professional reputations. It’s daring, bold, and frighteningly real, allowing the spectator to believe they are truly developing intuitive, psychic ability.

The performer displays an envelope containing a hidden playing card or photo. Through guided intuition, the spectator is encouraged to answer questions about what’s inside. To everyone’s astonishment — including their own — the spectator accurately identifies the hidden object. The experiment can be repeated, and with each round, the spectator’s intuitive connection appears to grow stronger.

This routine blends genuine audience involvement with a stunning, emotional impact. The Secret includes both no-miss methods for reliability and more audacious, psychological approaches for experienced mentalists.

• Creator: Kenton Knepper, with contributions from Bob Sheets and Allen Zingg.
• Effect type: Telepathic intuition experiment using a hidden card or photo.
• Realistic presentation: The spectator genuinely feels they are using their own intuition.
• Versatile methods: Includes both safe approaches and bold performance options.
• Emotional impact: Creates an eerie, personal experience unlike standard card magic.
• Professional-grade mentalism: Trusted by top performers for reputation-making moments.

The Secret isn’t for everyone — it demands confidence and sensitivity — but for those who dare, it delivers psychological power and unforgettable reactions. This is real mentalism at its most intimate and astonishing.