The Evasons have spent decades perfecting one of the most impressive two-person mentalism acts in the world. When Jeff and Tessa Evason brought their remarkable mind-reading abilities to Penn & Teller: Fool Us, they demonstrated exactly why they are so highly respected throughout the magic community.
The husband-and-wife mentalist duo appeared during Season 3 of Fool Us in an episode that originally aired on September 7, 2016. Although Penn and Teller ultimately determined that they understood the secret behind the performance, what they said afterward may have been even more valuable than winning the famous Fool Us trophy.
The Evasons Deliver Astonishing Mentalism on Fool Us
For their performance, Tessa remained onstage wearing a blindfold while Jeff moved freely through the theater, interacting with randomly selected audience members.
Audience members produced personal belongings that Tessa could not possibly see. Nevertheless, she accurately identified an eyeglass case, the woman who owned it and even the woman’s name.
The demonstrations quickly became more difficult. Tessa identified an orange guitar pick, correctly revealed another audience member’s name and described a sentimental watch. She then determined that the watch had been given to its owner by his mother—and correctly revealed that his mother’s name was Cora.
The Evasons saved one of their strongest moments for Penn and Teller themselves. Teller supplied a $100 bill, and the blindfolded Tessa proceeded to reveal the numbers in its serial number.
It was a fast-moving demonstration of mind reading, audience interaction and the extraordinary connection Jeff and Tessa have developed during their many years of performing together.
What Did Penn and Teller Say About The Evasons?
Penn Jillette’s reaction made it clear that he and Teller were deeply impressed.
Penn praised The Evasons for performing their act in the traditional style without depending upon the electronic devices commonly associated with modern mentalism. He described watching them work as “breathtaking.”
Penn also revealed that he and Teller had once attempted to learn a similar two-person act. After years of studying and practicing, they were only able to perform it using a deck of cards. The Evasons, by comparison, appeared capable of identifying practically anything an audience member could produce.
Penn said the mental work involved was unbelievable and explained that this was one of those rare performances that becomes even more amazing when you understand the skill involved.
His ultimate assessment was an extraordinary compliment:
“I have never seen better at what you’re doing.”
Coming from two of the most knowledgeable and accomplished magicians in the world, that is an incredible endorsement.
Did The Evasons Fool Penn and Teller?
The Evasons did not officially fool Penn and Teller. Penn carefully indicated that he and Teller understood the basic principles behind the performance without exposing the secret to the audience.
However, Penn deliberately avoided giving viewers clues that might help them uncover the method. He said the act was so good that he wanted The Evasons to continue performing it everywhere.
That response demonstrates something important about Fool Us: earning the trophy is not the only measure of a successful appearance. Sometimes showcasing exceptional skill, professionalism and showmanship can leave an even greater impression.
The Evasons may not have fooled Penn and Teller, but they clearly earned their admiration—and one of the strongest endorsements any mentalist duo could receive.
Jeff and Tessa Evason continue to perform their interactive Second Sight and ESP show for theaters, corporate events and audiences around the world. Their official website reports performances in more than 40 countries, along with appearances on NBC, FOX, CBS, The CW and the Discovery Channel.
Watch their amazing Penn & Teller: Fool Us performance below and decide for yourself: Could you explain how The Evasons accomplished it?
Watch The Evasons on Penn & Teller: Fool Us
Learn more about Jeff and Tessa at The Evasons’ official website.
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