Have you ever seen a performer make a crystal-clear ball float and dance across their hands, seemingly defying gravity? That captivating art form is known as contact juggling, and its most iconic prop is often referred to as a Fushigi Ball. More than just a toy, these acrylic spheres are tools for a unique performance art that blends illusion, dance, and object manipulation.
What is Contact Juggling and the Fushigi Ball?
Contact juggling differs from traditional toss juggling. Instead of throwing objects in the air, the performer keeps one or more balls in constant contact with their body, typically their hands and arms. The ball rolls, glides, and orbits, creating the illusion that it is floating or is magnetically attached. The term "Fushigi Ball" has become a popular name for the acrylic balls used in this art, inspired by a specific branded product that helped popularize the craft. The magic lies in the smooth, transparent surface of the acrylic, which reflects light and obscures the performer's finger movements, enhancing the floating effect.
Choosing Your First Acrylic Juggling Ball
For beginners, selecting the right size and weight is crucial. A ball that's too large or heavy can be difficult to control. Many starters find success with a medium-sized ball around 70mm to 80mm in diameter. The DSJUGGLING 80mm Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball is an excellent choice for those beginning their journey. Its 3.14" diameter offers a good balance between visibility and manageability.
If you have smaller hands, consider a ball specifically designed for a better grip. The Kathfly Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball Small at 7cm (2.76 inches) is tailored for beginners with smaller hands, making foundational moves easier to learn. Similarly, the DSJUGGLING 60mm Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball (2.36") is another perfect option for developing dexterity and control.
Expanding Your Practice: Sizes and Sets
As your skills progress, you might want to experiment with different sizes. Larger balls, like the DSJUGGLING Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball in 85mm & 90mm, move more slowly and are great for practicing smooth, flowing movements and are ideal for performers with larger hands. They create a very dramatic visual on stage.
Practicing with two balls opens up a new world of tricks and isolations. A set like the DSJUGGLING 2 Pack 65mm Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Balls allows you to work on coordination and multi-ball manipulation without the commitment of buying two separate, potentially mismatched spheres.
Specialty Balls for Performance and Effect
For performers looking to add an extra "wow" factor, specialty balls exist. The DSJUGGLING 75mm Fushigi Glow in The Dark Ball is a fantastic example. This 3" professional sphere captures the essence of the Fushigi magic while adding a luminous element perfect for low-light or stage performances, making the floating illusion even more striking.
For those seeking crystal-clear clarity and precision, balls like the SUMAG Clear Acrylic Ball Crystal Ultra Manipulation Contact Juggling Ball offer exceptional transparency and finish, favored by magicians and serious manipulators for their flawless appearance.
Trusted Brands and Consistent Quality
When investing in a practice tool, consistency matters. Brands like Dawson Juggling (DSJUGGLING) have built a reputation for quality acrylic spheres. Whether you choose the Dawson Juggling DSJUGGLING Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball - 70mm or its sibling the DSJUGGLING Dawson Juggling Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball, you can expect a well-crafted, balanced ball that will serve your practice well. Even smaller sizes, such as the DSJUGGLING 2.16" (55mm) Clear Acrylic Contact Juggling Ball, maintain this high standard for niche uses or very detailed hand work.
The journey into contact juggling starts with a single, mesmerizing sphere. From the popular concept of the Fushigi Ball to the wide array of professional and beginner-friendly acrylic balls available today, there's a perfect sphere waiting to help you unlock the illusion of anti-gravity magic in your own hands.