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The Oddest Ball by David Penn and TCC

Created by: David Penn, TCC

The Oddest Ball is a comedic mentalism effect designed for close-up or parlour performances. In the routine, the performer, often blindfolded or with their back turned, has a spectator select balls one by one from a set, with the spectator repeatedly stating, 'I have a ball.' The performer claims to read the spectator's mind, building tension until the unique 'oddball' (e.g., a red ball) is chosen. At that moment, the prop—a finely crafted walnut base—reacts by sounding an alarm and vibrating, hilariously revealing the selection and creating a surprising punchline. This trick adds lighthearted fun to mentalism acts, using a classic oddball concept with an electronic twist. Buyers should note it includes the necessary balls and is ready to perform, with the option to use alternative balls of similar size.

Where to buy

The Oddest Ball by David Penn and TCC from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicThe Oddest Ball by David Penn and TCC£217.88
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The Oddest Ball by David Penn and TCC from Magicbox
MagicboxThe Oddest Ball by David Penn and TCC£222.00
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Key features

  • Comedic mentalism effect for close-up or parlour settings

  • Uses a classic oddball premise with an electronic alarm and vibration reveal

  • Simple routine requiring minimal skill, based on repeated phrases

  • High-quality construction with a North American walnut shell for an antique feel

  • Reliable internal electronics that are easy to maintain

  • Includes all necessary props, with flexibility to use alternative balls

Pros

  • Hilarious and guaranteed crowd-pleaser

  • Easy to execute with no complex moves

  • Well-made and durable prop

  • Adds light relief to serious mentalism routines

  • Versatile for various performance styles

Cons

  • High price point

  • Relies on electronics, which may require charging

Effect

The Oddest Ball is a comedy mentalism effect. The performer is blindfolded or turns their back. A spectator selects balls one by one from a special wooden base. Each time they pick a ball, they say, "I have a ball." The performer claims to read their mind. The routine builds tension. When the spectator finally picks the unique red ball, the base reacts. It sets off an alarm and vibrates. This reveals the correct selection and creates a moment of surprise and laughter.

Full details

The Oddest Ball is a self-contained electronic prop. The shell is made from North American walnut. This gives it a high-quality, antique look. The internal electronics are described as stable and reliable. The set includes the wooden base and several golf balls. One ball is a different color, typically red. The device requires charging via a USB cable. Performers can use balls of any color. The routine is simple. It uses the repeated phrase "I have a ball" to build the effect.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is for performers who want to add comedy to their sets. It works well as a break from serious mentalism routines. Craig Petty calls it a "hilarious mentalism gag." It is suitable for close-up performances. Magicians looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser should consider it. The effect is designed to bring light relief and get a strong reaction.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Oddest Ball is simple to execute. The video summaries state the routine is easy. It requires no complex sleight of hand. The performer needs to present the routine with drama. Building tension is important. The technical aspect is handled by the prop itself. SaturnMagicShop notes it requires only the repeated phrase. This makes it accessible for magicians of all skill levels.

What magicians say

Reviewers highlight the trick's comedy and quality. SaturnMagicShop praises its "quality construction" and "reliable internal components." They recommend it for breaking up serious routines. Craig Petty from magic-tv included it in his top tricks from a major convention, calling it "hilarious." In another review, he and Ryland acknowledged it is a "hilarious gag trick" but noted it comes at a high price. The prop is consistently described as a fun and engaging piece that gets a great audience response.

What people are saying about The Oddest Ball

magic-tv says...

'The Oddest Ball' is a hilarious gag trick but comes at a high price. [...] They praise its humor and ease of use but note its high price.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

The comedy kicks in when they attempt to lie—if they remove the single copper coin but still claim it is silver, the base itself reacts by setting off an alarm and vibrating, hilariously exposing the fib.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The tension builds until the spectator finally chooses the red ball, at which point an alarm sound and vibration occur, revealing the correct selection and eliciting laughter from the audience.

Review videos

Promotional videos