Epic Phone Smash Routine by Tom Wright

Effect

The Epic Phone Smash Routine is a high-energy, theatrical magic trick that combines comedy, suspense, and a dramatic payoff. The magician borrows a spectator’s phone, seemingly smashes it to pieces with a hammer, and then reveals it unharmed in an impossible location—often inside a sealed box or scroll that has been in the audience the entire time. The routine includes misdirection, callbacks, and unexpected twists, leaving the audience in shock and laughter.

Full Details

Tom Wright’s version of the Epic Phone Smash Routine is a carefully crafted performance piece. It begins with an easel and a large pad of paper, where a bowling ball is produced and placed precariously on top. Later, the magician borrows a phone, places it in an envelope, and dramatically smashes it with a hammer before discarding the remains in a bucket. The tension builds as the audience believes the phone is destroyed, only for it to reappear intact inside a box that has been in plain sight the whole time. The routine incorporates music, comedic timing, and audience interaction to heighten the effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is ideal for performers who enjoy theatrical, story-driven magic with a mix of comedy and suspense. It works well for stage magicians, corporate entertainers, or anyone who wants a high-impact closer for their set. Because it involves audience participation and a strong narrative, it’s best suited for performers comfortable with improvisation and engaging crowds.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Epic Phone Smash Routine requires precise timing, confident handling of props, and strong audience management. While the core method is straightforward, the performance hinges on comedic delivery, misdirection, and maintaining suspense. Rehearsal is essential to ensure smooth execution, especially when incorporating music and callbacks. Tom Wright notes that he refined this routine over years, adjusting jokes and pacing to maximize reactions.

What Magicians Say

Tom Wright describes the routine as one of his most original and impactful pieces, saying:
"It closes my show... it’s got so many jokes, loads of callbacks, and the reactions are insane. People can’t believe the phone ends up unharmed after all the chaos."

He also emphasizes the importance of refining the routine over time, adding new gags and adjusting the pacing to keep it fresh. The trick’s versatility allows it to play strongly in both stage and close-up settings, making it a standout piece in a performer’s repertoire.

For magicians looking for a bold, memorable trick that blends comedy and impossibility, the Epic Phone Smash Routine delivers a powerful punch.