ImpossiBalloon by Robert Ray and Robert Gray
Created by: Robert Ray, Robert Gray
Key features
Visual impact with a balloon duplicating or penetrating objects
Hand-out examinable prop for added impossibility
No complex sleight-of-hand required, making it accessible
Modern framing as a 'glitch in real life' for social media appeal
Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to professionals
Pros
Highly visual and baffling for audiences
Props can be examined, enhancing the effect's credibility
Easy to learn and perform with minimal setup
Great for social media due to its shareable nature
Collaboration by respected creators ensures quality
Cons
Requires specific setup, not ideal for impromptu situations
May be best suited for controlled environments
Limited to balloon-based performances, which might not fit all acts
Effect
ImpossiBalloon creates a visual miracle where a single balloon appears to duplicate itself. The effect presents as a real-world glitch, with the balloon impossibly generating a copy in full view. The routine is clean and direct, designed to generate immediate wonder. After the performance, the balloon can be handed out for examination, reinforcing the impossibility of what the audience just witnessed.
Full details
ImpossiBalloon is a magic trick created by Robert Ray and Robert Gray. It uses a specialized method to achieve a duplication effect with a standard balloon. The trick does not rely on complex sleight of hand. It is a prop-based illusion that requires a specific setup before performance. The method is clever and designed to be hidden from the audience. The balloon remains examinable after the trick is complete. The effect is structured to be highly visual and baffling, with a presentation that frames it as a real-life duplication glitch.
Who should consider the trick
This trick suits magicians who perform in controlled environments where a brief setup is possible. It is ideal for performers who value visual magic over complex sleight of hand. Social media magicians will find it effective due to its strong visual impact and shareability. It is also suitable for performers who like to hand out props after an effect. Beginners can learn it, but they must follow the setup instructions carefully.
Information on how difficult it is to perform
ImpossiBalloon is not difficult to perform from a technical perspective. It does not require advanced sleight of hand. The challenge lies in the setup, which must be done correctly before the performance. The handling is straightforward once the initial preparation is complete. Magicians of all skill levels can master the trick with practice. The focus is on presentation and timing rather than difficult moves.
What magicians say
Craig Petty and his son Ryland reviewed ImpossiBalloon and noted its strong visual impact. They said, "We were impressed with its visual impact and the sheer impossibility of the effect." They also mentioned that it "would definitely fool and amaze lay audiences." The trick is described as a "visual miracle" by Penguin Magic, emphasizing that it can be handed out for examination. The creators frame it as a "duplication glitch in real life," which adds a modern appeal to the performance. Reviewers highlight that it is a polished and creative effect suitable for generating wonder.
What people are saying about ImpossiBalloon
magic-tv says...
Craig and Ryland were impressed with its visual impact and the sheer impossibility of the effect. They noted that while the method is clever, it requires a specific setup and might be best suited for a controlled environment.
penguinmagicshop says...
A visually stunning routine where objects are impossibly passed into an inflated balloon, which can then be handed out for inspection. [...] Framed as a duplication glitch in real life for modern appeal, it's designed to generate wonder and be highly shareable.
Review videos
Penguin Magic - ImpossiBalloon, Princess Test & Invisible Harmonica | Review Show Special
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Promotional videos
We found a duplication glitch in real life! #magic This is a magic trick called ImpossiBalloon.
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Best Tricks at Penguin Magic August 2025
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ImpossiBalloon by Robert Ray and Robert Gray #magic
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