This final spotlight is for a show, rather than a performer (or performers). The show is “Headliners” and it stars three legendary, well known magicians who have all been on TV – Simon Coronel, Dom Chambers and Dr. Vyom Sharma! “Headliners” is a highly anticipated magic show, which is sure to be full of jaw dropping moments and world class magic. I sat down with the stars of “Headliners” to learn more.

Describe the show in 3 words: Loose, yet tight. 

Each of the performers in ‘headliners’ are internationally known – what makes this combo of performers ‘work’?
Big line-up shows like The Illusionists have as many as seven stars in them. That’s a lot! We only have three, but I think the experienced chemistry within our cast will really carry the show. 

Will the stage be big enough for you all / for all your magical talents?
It’s approximately 7x larger than necessary. 

What are you looking forward to the most with ‘headliners’?
Two of our team are competing at FISM (think the international olympics but for magicians) in a few weeks, and will be doing their final rehearsals and act development as part of this show. The big stakes are definitely adding some exciting tension. 

I know this isn’t your first time performing at the Melbourne Magic Festival – tell us about your favourite Melbourne Magic Festival memory.
Dave Lee: It’s About Time. Still the greatest show ever to exist. Also the only one in MMF history to provide its own entire room full of custom chairs to create raked seating on a flat floor. 

Talk about dedication to the magical arts (and performing arts)! Definitely sounds like this show includes some truly special content, so don’t miss out on seeing it! In the past I have seen acts at the MMF that have included FISM rehearsals and it’s always been highly memorable, mind blowing stuff so run for these tickets – grab them here while you can!

“Headliners” runs from July 5th – 9th (8:45pm each night) at The Houdini Theatre – Arrow Hub, 488 Swanston St, Melbourne. Tickets are available here.

This week, I was lucky enough to sit down with talented local magician Chi Han Yeo. Equally adept and astounding with his card manipulation as he is with his rich storytelling, I settled in for a riveting interview as we discussed Chi Han’s new show “Warning against games of chance”.

Describe your show in 3 words
This is really a tough one.  The show twists and turns depending on the whims of the audience, but if I had to pick three based on what I’m hoping it is…tongue in cheek!

Why should audiences come and see your show?
A great question.  Well this is something with a bit of a theatrical blend.  If you’re looking to see great magic, but also something with more of a storyline, where you also get to interact without being put in the spotlight, and have a unique live experience, this is the one for you!

What’s your favourite card game / game of chance?
Funnily enough I don’t gamble!  I’m a sucker for board games though, currently enjoying a game called Destinies most right now.  It’s an automated role playing game, so effectively a game where story is paramount, you’re in an interesting world, and you get to experience magical things hmmmm…I wonder if there are any parallels with that and my show….

What are you looking forward to at this year’s Melbourne Magic Festival?
Always seeing great magic.  The Melbourne Magic Festival is a truly special event.  Not many places in the entire world have a festival dedicated to magic.  If I have to single out one it would have to be MagicSports.  I’ve never been able to see it as it always clashes with my own show, but this year we’re doing it super late, so yay!!!

Do you have a favourite card? If so, what is it?|
Six of diamonds.  I received it from a former card cheat who I learned a variety of gambling techniques from.  Oddly enough I never met the person face to face, but that’s a story for another time.

Sounds like audiences are in for another treat this year with Chi Han’s show- it sounds fascinating! “Warning Against Games of Chance” runs from July 5th – 9th (8pm each night) at The Close Up Gallery – Arrow Hub, 488 Swanston Street, Melbourne. Don’t miss out – get your tickets here while they are still available.

WARNING: The show on Wednesday July 6 2022 will NOT be a performance of ‘Warning Against Games of Chance’, but will instead be a showcase night of the students of the Magic School of Confidence.