Case Study: Where Wonder Meets Physics — The Creation of Fun with the Science of Magic
Overview
In a world full of flashy science kits and cookie-cutter magic sets, Fun with the Science of Magic stands apart. It's a thoughtfully crafted educational tool that blends the excitement of magic with the rigor of science. Brought to life through a unique collaboration between a retired physics teacher, a veteran manufacturer, and a professional magician, this kit doesn’t just show you how a trick works—it shows you why.
The Problem
Marshall Ellenstein, a retired high school physics teacher with a deep love for both education and magic, noticed something missing in the market. Magic kits focused on presentation without depth. Science kits explained theories but lacked the emotional hook that real magic can deliver. There was no product that truly combined scientific learning with magical performance in a meaningful way.
The Spark
Determined to change that, Marshall approached Andrew at Fun Inc., a company with decades of experience producing American-made magic and novelties. Marshall’s proposal: a kit that would use real magic tricks to demonstrate authentic scientific principles. Andrew immediately saw the potential, and the two got to work.
The Collaboration
This wasn’t a case of slapping a science label on old tricks—every element was carefully curated.
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Marshall Ellenstein personally selected each trick to ensure it illustrated a specific scientific concept—inertia, refraction, magnetism, air pressure, and more.
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He also wrote the instructional material, breaking down complex ideas into accessible, engaging explanations tailored for young learners.
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Fun Inc. handled the kit design, packaging, and production, making sure everything was durable, attractive, and classroom-ready.
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To top it off, professional magician Jason Hudy was brought in to perform each trick and explain the science in a series of video lessons—using Marshall’s writing as his guide.
The Result
The finished kit is more than a box of tricks—it’s a full educational experience. Each trick includes:
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A performance component
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A detailed, easy-to-understand scientific explanation
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Real-world context to show the principle in action
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A QR code linking to video instruction by Jason Hudy
It’s designed for educators, parents, and curious kids—anyone who wants to see the overlap between science and showmanship.
Impact
Since its release, Fun with the Science of Magic has been embraced by teachers, STEM clubs, after-school programs, and magic enthusiasts. Educators appreciate its alignment with learning standards and the way it makes abstract principles feel tangible. Students love the “wow” factor that makes learning feel like discovery.
Conclusion
Fun with the Science of Magic is the result of a rare kind of collaboration—one driven by passion, experience, and a shared belief in the power of curiosity. Thanks to Marshall’s vision, Fun Inc.’s expertise, and Jason Hudy’s performance magic, this kit proves that science and magic aren’t opposites. They’re partners in wonder.