Chard Under Box by Daniel Chard

Effect

The Chard Under Box is a multi-phase card routine that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The magician places a card under a box, and through a series of surprising and baffling phases, the card seems to defy logic, appearing and disappearing in impossible ways. The routine culminates in a jaw-dropping climax where the entire deck of cards ends up inside the box, leaving spectators utterly amazed.

Full details

The Chard Under Box is a modern take on the classic "card under box" effect, popularized by magicians like James Brown and Doc Eason. Daniel Chard has refined the routine, adding multiple phases that build on each other, creating a layered and engaging performance. The trick involves a combination of sleight of hand, misdirection, and psychological subtleties, making it a versatile piece that can be performed in close-up or parlor settings. The routine is designed to be modular, allowing performers to adapt it to different audiences and situations.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy performing card magic and are looking for a routine that offers both visual impact and psychological depth. It’s particularly well-suited for performers who work in close-up or parlor settings, as it requires minimal props—just a deck of cards and a small box. The Chard Under Box is also a great choice for magicians who want a routine that can be performed repeatedly, as its multi-phase structure keeps it fresh and engaging for both the performer and the audience.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Chard Under Box is considered intermediate to advanced in terms of difficulty. It requires a solid understanding of card sleights, misdirection, and timing. The routine involves several phases, each with its own method, so performers need to be comfortable with a variety of techniques. However, once mastered, the routine flows smoothly, and the methods are designed to be deceptive from multiple angles. Daniel Chard notes that the trick becomes almost second nature with practice, allowing the performer to focus on the presentation and audience interaction.

What magicians say

Daniel Chard describes the Chard Under Box as one of his "thousand-timers," a trick he’s performed over two thousand times. He praises its versatility, saying, "It’s got everything a strong card trick needs—surprise, misdirection, and constant moments of magic." He also highlights the routine’s ability to engage even the most skeptical spectators, noting that it’s a "self-misdirecting" trick that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. Other magicians have also praised the routine for its psychological depth and its ability to create a sense of wonder and impossibility.