Why?, because even the slightest bit of wind will send them rolling off your table

Wouldnt really call that a journal, more of a simple statement.
But I do disagree. I dont have problems performing sponge balls in a busking atmosphere.

Kozmo does them in his Tales From the Streets DVD.

I strongly disagree- have them cup their hands or something. what also works is asking them to hold their hand over the table and open their hand slowly. I haven't had any trouble on the streets with them

I have to disagree as well, I couldn't do my street show without sponge balls.

I don't like how popular spone balls are nowadays. They're very unnatural in any performance environment. Use cards and coins instead!!! If you whip out sponge balls, the audience is going to think something is up. Our purpose as magicians is not to simply entertain, but to amaze! Sponges are so over-rated! Sorry for coming across as a d-bag, but I wanted to share my views.

I don't see how you can say that unless you haven't put much effort into experimenting with them and performing with them.

Don't underestimate them. If you could see some of the reactions I've gotten with them you wouldn't be calling them over-rated.

I've practiced with and used them a lot. I guess what I should have said is that they are good for restaurant work, that's when I use them. I'm still not an advocate of them, but there is a time and a place. I wouldn't carry them to, say, school or on the street, but private parties, restaurants, and kid shows are good.

Sponge balls!

Just for JamesJay...

Drew...why are you back?!?!

-JT

I got homesick...

This seems to work too... Every one knows a magician can manipulate cards, but a spongeball is a foreign concept to a lot of people...

Everyone I have performed cards for knows at least ONE card trick, no one has known a spongeball trick to date. In my opinion, people are less AMAZED at cards and more entertained. They are more amazed with spongeballs.

I honestly think spongeballs aren't over-rated as they are....cliche.
In the wake of David Blaine and Criss angel, street magic has grown so much. I think the more down to earth an effect is, that is, the more impromptu, realistic, and more in your face it is without the use of props...the more the audience is conditioned to act the way they've seen on t.v. (screaming, yelling, totally freaking out)
I think spongeballs are for the lack of a better term..outdated? It just doesn't match the persona of what you call modern day magic. If it DOES fit your style, then props to your persona, because it definitley clashes with a lot of the newer generation, and to have it work well next to card flourishing or a metal bending act is some skill in itself

Don't throw stones at me

i hate spongeballs, but i still perform them. my audiences love them. i've never once in my experience have had specs question what it is, or trickery involved.

if you don't like the ball, get a rabbit.