Young magicians are casting their wands to show off their mind-blowing magic skills in the upcoming Magicana Junior Magic Championships next month.
The College of Magic, Cape Town's premiere institution for the magical arts, is hosting the captivating event, where young magicians will dazzle audiences with their skills, at the Homecoming Centre on September 28.
Organisers said the competition brought together the best and brightest young performers, ready to showcase their mastery of magic in front of a live audience.
The creative director of the College of Magic, Chad Findlay, said: “We're incredibly proud of the young talent that will be taking the stage at this year's championships.
“This event is the culmination of a series of preliminary contests and will be a wonderful opportunity for these aspiring magicians to showcase their hard work and passion for the art. It's going to be a magical experience for participants and audiences alike.”
Ten finalists will take part in two categories of the competition – a Close-Up Magic Contest and Stage Magic Contest.
Weekend Argus caught up with some of the finalists.
Justine Williamson,15, from Plumstead said: “It's a wonderful feeling to have come this far in my journey of magic. I have many heart-warming memories of watching other spectacular magicians doing absolutely amazing magic, who were so confident and their presence warm and inviting. And just being able to say that I am in championships is an incredible feeling, and to have the opportunity to be joining them in this exciting experience.
“I'll be doing some ‘close-up' magic with a rose and some cards. I'll be representing stage magicians by doing the famous linking rings and an illusionist by doing a big but little illusion that involves cutting a can of coke in three and then restoring it.”
Liyema Bovu, 17, from Philipi, said: “I would come to the College of Magic to practise my act and ask for assistance from my mentors when I was struggling and they would contribute something. They always helped me hone my skill. I will be performing card manipulation with my hat-juggling skill.”
In the Close-Up Magic category, contestants will perform magic with everyday objects, turning the mundane into the mysterious with nothing more than their hands, a deck of cards and an audience within arm's reach.
Expect to see coins vanish, cards appear from thin air, and a whole lot of “how did they do that?” moments.
In the Stage Magic Contest, there's something theatrical. Contestants will showcase their mastery of larger-than-life illusions, from levitation to making objects disappear, the young magicians will dazzle with their showmanship, creativity and, of course, a few tricks up their sleeves.
The training director at the College of Magic, David Gore, said: “Close-up Magic is the ultimate test of a magician's skill.
“There's an intimacy to it that you just don't get with larger illusions – there's no hiding behind smoke and mirrors here.
“Our young magicians have risen to the challenge and I guarantee they'll have the audience on the edge of their seats.”
Whether you're a lifelong fan of magic or someone looking to experience the extraordinary, this event promises to be a night of wonder, laughter and awe-inspiring performances.
Tickets are available via Quicket at R120.