Seeing a magic show is an experience that is undoubtedly a highlight for any child. Or anyone, for that matter.

Magic is one of the art forms which has its own unique place in our world. Phrases such as “Aces up his sleeve”, “pull a rabbit from his hat” and referring to something wonderful as “magical” are firmly entrenched in our vocabulary.

And yet the opportunity for anyone to actually see a real skilled magic performance is rare.

The children who do get to see a good magic show may benefit in more ways than the immediate enjoyment derived from being in the audience at such an exciting event.

 

First and foremost benefit emphasised: an increased interest in reading.  

 

As a magician with over 1,300 performances I can tell you that demonstrating the impossible will immediately have the audience exclaiming: “How did you do that!”

Even though a magician needs to keep the audience in awe by not disclosing the secrets, and many cheeky answers will deflect the question, I still like to emphasise the secrets can be found by reading many books. This reinforces the idea in their minds that there are many great things to be discovered in the world of books. When I performed for the City Museum (Old Treasury) exhibition Hocus Pocus, in 2007 and 2008, I was able to perform alongside a veteran magician who designed many Silver Circus illusions, Ross Skiffington. He told me that books are by far the superior source for knowledge building. Superior to audio-visual products as these are only interpretations of the book knowledge. He was adamant that one should not skip those books which lack illustrations as the process of reading and carefully following the technical descriptions in one’s mind is the perfect brain training for improving one’s creativity.

 

Second benefit in my list: stimulate their curiosity to explore the world.

 

One of the lessons that many of us slowly learn is that many things in the world are not totally as they appear. In every discipline, from science to history to agriculture, not to mention politics, perspective can often determine how a conclusion is reached. This idea of perspective is perfectly demonstrated in a magic show where seemingly impossible conclusions are derived from the audience’s perspective. The development of a person’s ability to discern between something credible and that which is not credible can be clearly noted the more opportunity they have to see a live demonstration of a skilled magic trickster.

To find oneself totally convinced of an impossibility could prove to be a catalyst, making one reassess how we have formed the parameters we find comfortable, and adding the little spark of curiosity that will expand our thinking. And who can deny that a person who feels genuine curiosity within any topic will go the extra length to discover more, and as a result learn more, possibly even notice new things and bring an original contribution to the world.

 

A third and very interesting benefit, from my perspective: shy children find a hobby.

 

As a member of the Australian Society of Magicians and also having previously served as the society’s secretary (2006 & 2007) I have had the opportunity to speak with many professional magicians and also magicians who are hobbyists. Among the many varied motivations people had for beginning their development as magicians I found many who confided in me that they were initially lacking in confidence. They began to learn how to perform magic tricks in order to overcome their shyness. Magic has to be shown to a second party for it to be validated. A shy child may learn magic tricks and in demonstrating these to his audience of friends and family may discover a way to become “awesome”, giving them a marvelous confidence boost.

 

A fourth benefit: a highlight to look forward to.

 

Anticipation can be a huge part of the enjoyment of any activity. Life is comprised of highs and lows. We appreciate health when we have been sick. We appreciate light after having had a power cut. However, an inordinate amount of lows can result in unwelcome physiological and psychological states. By organizing a fun event such as a magic show we have the opportunity to orchestrate a high-point. Yet time wise this high point extends far before the actual event as the knowledge that it will occur creates anticipation. This anticipation of an enjoyable activity will already create better moods, sometimes in equal amount as the activity itself.