
Ebook - The Balls And The Net by Johnny Thompson (Digital Download)
Description & Effect
Unveiling a Classic Routine: The Balls And The Net
Step into the mesmerizing world of close-up magic with Johnny Thompson's definitive ebook, 'The Balls And The Net'. This essential digital download grants you access to a meticulously crafted routine that has captivated audiences for generations. Thompson, a true master of the art, guides you through an enchanting sequence where three ordinary balls defy logic, magically passing from one hand to the other. Witness firsthand the subtle comedic by-play interwoven with pure sleight-of-hand as balls vanish from pockets only to reappear, reuniting with their counterparts in the magician's hand with an impossible snap of a finger. The routine builds to a stunning climax, culminating in a baffling, instantaneous vanish of all three balls, leaving spectators breathless and wondering.
A Rich Legacy of Magical Evolution
Beyond simply teaching a trick, 'The Balls And The Net' offers a deep dive into the historical tapestry of one of magic's most iconic effects. Originally rooted in ancient Chinese traditions, where performers used marbles in their mouths, this routine has been refined and elevated by an impressive lineage of magic's greatest minds. Learn about Silent Mora's ingenious westernization, eliminating the 'distasteful' mouth actions and utilizing a handkerchief for impromptu performances. Discover Dai Vernon's brilliant enhancement, suggesting a close-meshed net for superior visibility. Thompson's version is a masterful synthesis, incorporating Oscar Pladek's 'Pop-up Move' and Ed Mao's 'Double Rollout'. Furthermore, you'll uncover how David Roth ingeniously applied the 'Double Rollout' to the Mora effect, and Billy McComb's elegant substitution of a black chiffon scarf for the traditional net. This ebook isn't just a lesson in technique; it's a journey through the evolution of a magical masterpiece.
Master the Art of Deception
Through Johnny Thompson's clear and expert instruction, you'll acquire the precise movements and psychological nuances needed to perform 'The Balls And The Net' with professional finesse. This routine is a showcase of elegant sleight-of-hand, misdirection, and theatrical timing. Perfect for close-up performers, this digital download equips you with a powerful, engaging, and historically significant routine that will elevate your magic repertoire. Impress your audience with impossible vanishes, magical transfers, and an unforgettable climax, all delivered with the wisdom and experience of Johnny Thompson. Download today and begin mastering a timeless piece of magic history.
Original Specs
Johnny Thompson – Routine For The Balls And The Net
The magician causes three balls to magically pass from one hand to the other. This is repeated with some comedic by-play and followed by a sequence where the magician places two balls his hand and a third into his pocket and, with the snap of a finger, causes the pocketed ball to rejoin the other two in his hand. This is repeated several times, eventually building to a climax that ends with a startling vanish of the three balls.
The original effect is Chinese in origin and was performed with marbles placed in the performer's mouth. Silent Mora (Louis McCord) westernized the effect by eliminating the distasteful action of placing marbles in the mouth. Instead he performed it entirely in his hands and, with the aid of a handkerchief held by two spectators, was able to perform it under impromptu conditions. Dai Vernon enhanced the effect by suggesting that Mora use a close-meshed net in place of the handkerchief for better visibility.
This version of the Balls and the Net is based on Oscar Pladek's "Pop-up Move" (Pallbearer's Revue, April 1973, "A Modem Chinese Marvel," page 611) and the "Double Rollout," a two ball derivation of the move by Ed Mao (Linking Ring, Vol. 37, issue #4, "Silver Spheres," page 82). The idea of applying the "Double Rollout" to accomplish the Mora effect was conceived by David Roth and the use of a black chiffon scarf, instead of a net, is Billy McComb's.













