For more than fifty years, Allan Ackerman has been a major creative force in the world of card magic. Starting with Magic Mafia Effects in 1970, Allan has produced a body of work that showcases his ability to create seamless, baffling routines for magicians of all skill levels.

 Allan’s last big book of card magic, Las Vegas Kardma, was published way back in 1994. Fortunately for all of us who love good card magic, Vanishing, Inc. has brought us up to date with the two-volume set, All In. The books gather routines scattered throughout Allan’s various lecture notes and videos, as well as bringing us some new creations. See my review of his new books in the Sept 2024 MichaelClose.com newsletter.

When I lived in Las Vegas, I often watched Allan “hold court” during the Wednesday night Gary Darwin magic club meeting. Since moving to the Great White North, those opportunities are few and far between. So, I was happy to arrange a conversation with Allan to discuss his journey in magic, his fascination with tetradistic stacks, and his approach to creating card magic. I enjoyed our chat; I think you will, too.