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Zombie Ball

The Zombie Ball is a classic close-up magic trick where a small ball appears to float and move around mysteriously in the performer's hands, defying gravity. It's a visual and interactive piece that works well in intimate settings, captivating audiences with its seemingly impossible movements. This trick is perfect for magicians looking to add a touch of mystery and wonder to their close-up repertoire.

Key features

  • Visual and interactive, making it great for close-up magic

  • Does not require complex sleight of hand, suitable for beginners

  • Can be performed almost anywhere, no table needed

  • Comes with instructions to get you started

Pros

  • Highly visual and baffling to audiences

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Portable and can be done impromptu

  • Strong audience reaction and engagement

Cons

  • May require practice to make the movements look natural

  • Limited to close-up performances

  • Some versions may not include the ball, requiring separate purchase

Effect

The Zombie Ball is a classic floating ball effect where a small ball appears to levitate and move on its own. The ball can float in mid-air, change direction, and even respond to the magician's gestures, creating the illusion of supernatural control. The effect is visually striking and works well in both close-up and stage settings.

Full details

The Zombie Ball is a self-contained prop that requires no complicated setup. It is designed to be easy to use while producing a strong magical effect. The ball can be handled freely, and the method remains hidden from the audience. The trick is often performed with smooth, deliberate movements to enhance the illusion of weightlessness.

Who should consider the trick

The Zombie Ball is ideal for magicians who want a visually impressive effect with minimal technical difficulty. It suits performers who work in close-up, parlour, or stage magic. The trick is especially effective for those who enjoy routines with a mysterious or supernatural theme.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Zombie Ball is considered easy to perform, making it accessible to beginners while still being effective for experienced magicians. The method relies more on presentation than complex sleight of hand. A performer with basic handling skills can achieve convincing results with minimal practice.

What magicians say

Wayne McEwan, a New Zealand magician known for his engaging performances, emphasizes the importance of connecting tricks to cultural relevance and audience psychology. While he does not specifically mention the Zombie Ball, his approach to magic—focusing on meaning, context, and connection—applies well to this effect. A floating ball routine can be enhanced with storytelling or thematic elements to make it more memorable for audiences.

Magicians who appreciate classic magic with strong visual impact will find the Zombie Ball a valuable addition to their repertoire. The trick’s simplicity and versatility make it a reliable choice for various performance settings.

What people are saying about Zombie Ball

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Wayne’s approach blends local relevance with strong magical foundations. For instance, his Copper-Silver-Brass routine isn’t just a standard coin trick—it uses an old New Zealand penny and a Chinese coin to tell a story about the country’s gold mining history.

Performance videos