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Parlor Box Routine by Ben Williams

Created by: Ben Williams

The '5WITCH' by Ben Williams is a comprehensive guide to mastering five different card and billet switches, plus a bonus technique, designed for magicians and mentalists. The tutorial, filmed in Ben's kitchen, is straightforward and focuses on practical, real-world applications. The switches range from quick, in-the-hands card switches to a visually stunning table-based billet switch. The project also includes routines like the Mystery Card Plot, Impossible Location, and a Parlor Box Routine, making it a versatile tool for performers looking to enhance their switching techniques.

Key features

  • 1.5 hours long tutorial with core techniques taught in the first 15 minutes

  • Five main switches plus a bonus technique

  • Real-world applications and routines included

  • High praise for Ben Williams' teaching style and the material's practicality

  • Exclusive bonus trick available for direct purchases

Pros

  • Practical and well-structured material

  • Clear, efficient teaching style

  • Real-world applicability

  • Versatile for both card magicians and mentalists

  • Includes exclusive bonus for direct purchases

Cons

  • Some switches require extra preparation

  • Switch T, while visually stunning, may be less practical for impromptu work

Effect

The Parlor Box Routine is a stage or parlor magic effect where spectators write or sign cards, which are then placed into a transparent plastic box. The magician appears to have no control over the selections, yet through clever switching techniques, they reveal impossible predictions or one-ahead revelations. The routine uses contrasting card backs (red and blue) to enhance the illusion of fairness while allowing the magician to secretly manage the outcomes.

Full details

The routine involves a simple plastic box, similar to a lunch container, where spectators place their signed or written cards. The magician uses subtle switching techniques to control the information without any suspicious handling of the box itself. The method relies on pre-show preparation and well-timed switches rather than gimmicked props.

Ben Williams teaches this routine as part of his 5WITCH project, integrating it with other card and billet switching techniques. The routine is designed for mentalism or prediction-based performances, making it suitable for stage or parlor settings.

Who should consider the trick

This routine is ideal for:

  • Mentalists who perform one-ahead routines.
  • Stage or parlor magicians looking for a clean, prop-light prediction effect.
  • Performers who want a practical alternative to expensive switching devices like maze boxes.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty depends on the performer's familiarity with switching techniques. The core method is not mechanically complex but requires smooth handling and timing. Ben Williams' teaching breaks down the necessary moves clearly, making it accessible to intermediate magicians. The routine does not rely on sleight-heavy methods but benefits from confident performance and audience management.

What magicians say

Roo from Roo's Reviews highlights the practicality of the routine, stating:
"If you're looking to get into parlor work with mentalism, and you're not looking to spend a huge amount of money on expensive props, this is a great way to do an Oracle-style routine or a one-ahead using a box."

He also praises Ben Williams' teaching, noting that the method avoids suspicious handling:
"There's no sneaky movements because of the way Ben handles it. There's no switching of billets inside the box—it's very, very easy to do."

The routine is recommended for performers who want a straightforward yet powerful method for prediction-based mentalism without relying on complex gimmicks.

What people are saying about Parlor Box Routine

RoosReviews says...

Roo **highly recommends** *5WITCH*, especially for **card magicians and mentalists** looking to expand their **switching techniques**. He praises Ben’s **clear, efficient teaching** and the project’s **real-world applicability**.

Review videos