Renée Lavand

Renée Lavand lost his right arm in a severe car accident when he was just a young child. Despite this life-altering injury, he became obsessed with sleight-of-hand magic, ultimately developing a legendary technique for manipulating a deck of cards using only his left hand. His mastery of one-handed card controls made him an international icon in the magic community.

His most famous and celebrated routine was a three-card monte routine titled 'It can't be done any slower.' Lavand would casually tell the audience that while street hustlers rely on speed, he performs the classic con game using only one hand at a slow, deliberate pace. The routine was a brilliant display of storytelling, misdirection, and flawless technical skill that fooled both laymen and professional magicians.

Yes, Lavand became a massive celebrity in Latin America, frequently appearing on Argentine television throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He was often introduced on variety shows as a mysterious, romantic figure who could perform impossible feats. His television appearances helped establish close-up magic as a compelling art form for the screen.

While he traveled the world to perform at prestigious magic conventions, Lavand spent decades as a resident performer at his own club, El Boliche de René, in Buenos Aires. He would perform his intricate one-handed card tricks for guests seated right at his table. This intimate venue allowed audiences to witness his demanding technical skill and theatrical storytelling up close.