Magic Tricks

I’ve been studying Q&A for some time with the intent of adding it to my stage/parlor repertoire. Having settled on a structure that involves billet switching, I explored various options for “real time” switch and read, switch and “delayed” read, and one ahead. I wanted a switching method that was simple, foolproof and not easily “back-trackable.” There are many great, workable ideas and devices out there, but none of them seemed to quite fit what I was looking for. Some just didn’t look like a “real” container, some were not the right size, and some not able to switch between dummies and participant billets with ease.

After practicing with it for several weeks, it seems that the TBC 2 box is going to fit my needs nicely. It is sturdily constructed, looks like a collapsable storage box that you would find at Target or Ikea, and is the perfect size for around 30 billets (see below). The switching mechanism is reliable and well-engineered, although it will take practice and effective blocking to utilize it properly and with the ease necessary to make it an invisible action. The box does what it’s supposed to very well, but you’ll get the most out of it by handling and practicing with it until its workings are second nature.

The included booklet provides some nice ideas for ways to use the box, it is expected that purchasers will already have ideas and/or routines for its use. The video links provide history of the device and its development, as well as a demonstration of how it works.

I was initially a bit disappointed as the box appeared to be able to hold only about 10-15 billets in the secret section. Any more and the locking feature would not work, at least with my unit. I was using quarter folded half index cards as billets, and they seemed too thick and springy to allow for a lock. I soon realized that even with this being the case, the billets could be used without locking as long as somewhat more care is taken with handling. In this case, opening and assembling the box in view of the audience will not be possible. Upon further exploration, I found that the locking feature will work fine with about 30 2.5” by 3” billets of standard 20 lb paper stock. Some experimentation and flexibility may be required to find the billet size and type of paper that works for you. If your plans require a very large number of billets, this may not be the product for you.

The switching action does create a distinct sound that is not terribly loud, but not particularly soft. I don’t see this as being much of an issue as long as care is taken when blocking and executing the switch.

I haven’t yet used this in an actual performance, but after spending time practicing, scripting, and blocking, I am confident that this will fit my needs perfectly. Based upon my experience with it this far, I can heartily recommend TBC Box 2.0 to those with similar needs.