Benson Bowl Routine by Roy Benson

Effect

The Benson Bowl Routine is a classic magic trick that involves sponge balls and a bowl. The magician places a sponge ball on the table, covers it with the bowl, and with a snap of their fingers, the ball vanishes. When the bowl is lifted, the ball reappears underneath. The routine can be extended to multiple balls, creating a sequence of vanishes and reappearances. Some versions of the routine include a surprise transition to another trick, such as a card trick or the appearance of a Rubik's Cube.

Full details

The Benson Bowl Routine is a versatile trick that can be performed in various settings, from walk-around magic to small parlor shows. The routine typically uses three sponge balls and a bowl. The magician places a ball on the table, covers it with the bowl, and with a snap of their fingers, the ball vanishes. When the bowl is lifted, the ball reappears underneath. This sequence is repeated with multiple balls, creating a visually engaging performance. Some versions of the routine incorporate additional elements, such as using a pen as a magic wand or transitioning to another trick like a card trick or the appearance of a Rubik's Cube.

Who should consider the trick

The Benson Bowl Routine is ideal for magicians who perform close-up or walk-around magic. It is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy working with sponge balls and want a routine that is visually engaging and easy to follow. The trick is also a good choice for magicians who perform in small parlor settings or for audiences that appreciate light-hearted and interactive magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Benson Bowl Routine is relatively easy to learn, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. However, like any magic trick, it requires practice to perfect the timing and misdirection. The routine involves basic sleight of hand and the use of a gimmick, which adds to the simplicity of the method. Magicians who are new to sponge ball magic may need some time to get comfortable with the handling, but the routine is straightforward and can be mastered with consistent practice.

What magicians say

Craig Petty, a well-known magician, has demonstrated and taught the Benson Bowl Routine in his videos. He describes the routine as "visually engaging and easy to follow," making it a great choice for walk-around or small parlor shows. Craig also mentions that the routine can be adapted with playful twists, such as using a pen as a magic wand or transitioning to another trick like a card trick or the appearance of a Rubik's Cube. He notes that while the routine relies on a gimmick, it is still effective and entertaining. Craig emphasizes that the routine is simple to learn but requires practice to perfect the timing and misdirection. Overall, the Benson Bowl Routine is praised for its simplicity, versatility, and visual appeal.