SleightfulButton Box by John Morton
Created by: John Morton
Key features
Blends storytelling with magic for a unique performance
Uses a keepsake box and numbered coasters for audience interaction
Incorporates a coin flip to create the illusion of randomness
Ends with a surprising prediction that ties all choices together
Adaptable for different numbers of participants
Pros
Highly engaging and interactive
Uses simple props with deep personal meaning
Strong misdirection and presentation techniques
Flexible for various performance settings
Cons
Requires practice to master the pacing and timing
May need adaptation for different audience sizes
Effect
The "Button Box" trick creates the illusion of random choices leading to a surprising prediction. A performer presents a small box filled with various personal items, each with sentimental value. Audience members select items and make choices based on coin flips, seemingly guiding the outcome through chance. Despite the apparent randomness, the performer accurately predicts the final result, leaving spectators amazed.
Full Details
John Morton's "Button Box" routine uses a keepsake box containing small objects, such as a chess pawn, a Lego piece, a key, and other personal items. The performer introduces numbered coasters and a coin to involve the audience in a series of decisions. Participants pick two items at a time and assign "heads" or "tails" to each before flipping the coin. The process repeats until only one item remains. The performer then reveals a prediction matching the final selection.
The routine relies on storytelling, audience interaction, and subtle psychological techniques to create the illusion of free choice. The sentimental backstory of the items adds emotional depth, making the trick more engaging.
Who Should Consider the Trick
This trick suits magicians who enjoy interactive performances with strong storytelling elements. It works well in close-up settings, parlour magic, or small group performances. Those who appreciate routines with sentimental or nostalgic themes will find "Button Box" particularly appealing.
Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform
The trick requires smooth handling of audience interactions and confident presentation. While the method itself is not overly complex, the performer must maintain natural misdirection and pacing. Experience in guiding spectator choices and managing coin flips is beneficial. Beginners may need practice to ensure the routine flows naturally, but intermediate performers should find it manageable.
What Magicians Say
AlakazamMagicUK highlights the routine's charm and engagement, noting how Morton's storytelling enhances the effect. The video emphasizes the importance of misdirection and audience participation, stating, "The seemingly arbitrary nature of these choices is key to the effect." Morton's relaxed performance style makes the trick feel organic, reinforcing the illusion of randomness.
The routine is praised for its adaptability, as it can be adjusted for different group sizes. One reviewer mentions, "Morton clearly loves this routine, and his enthusiasm is infectious," suggesting that the performer's genuine connection to the props strengthens the overall impact.
Overall, "Button Box" is described as a memorable and engaging piece of magic that blends simplicity with strong audience interaction.
What people are saying about Button Box
AlakazamMagicUK says...
John Morton's 'Button Box' is a charming and engaging piece of magic that blends storytelling, audience interaction, and a clever prediction effect. [...] The routine's blend of nostalgia, audience participation, and a surprising prediction makes it a memorable and engaging piece of magic.
Review videos
Unlimited Sneak Peek ft Button Box by John Morton
AlakazamMagicUK mentioned this magic trick in this video.