MMF 2023 Performer Spotlight: Luke Blaze & Jay Cristo

Luke Blaze and Jay Cristo (image supplied)

1. Tell us about your show title – it’s quite striking! What can audiences expect?
The title of our show was one that was thoroughly thought of, although it seems like a standard word in the English dictionary, ‘Saint’ has many definitions and understandings which we explore and unpack throughout the show. Saint is all about diving into the miracles of live performance whilst changing the audience’s perspective on life. Jay and I both aim to allow the audience to marvel at their own personal revelation on how they view the world around them. We aim to deliver sophisticated routines with a humours and charismatic approach where spectators feel drawn to our performance style. With Jay and I both having different performance styles, this show takes you on a rollercoaster however everything comes full circle by the finale.  

2. Luke Blaze, you’ve performed at the Melbourne Magic Festival before (welcome back!) but Jay Cristo has not…tell us about your background together / what made you team up this year?
It’s great to be back at the festival this year, however last year there was something missing, a presence that only a best friend could fill. Jay and I have been best friends for 9 years, ever since we met each other both performing at the same event. From meeting, we discovered that we shared our love for magic, but didn’t stop there. We also had the same part time job, hobbies, and interests, it was like meeting a duplicate version of myself from an alternate dimension. The only thing that’s different is our performance style, which is quite the opposite, so we’ve rarely ever stepped on each other’s toes when performing (until we get on stage with each other in July!) Which is what has allowed us to bring together a show that literally has it everything, illusions, mind-reading, comedy and so much more. 

3. Would you describe yourself as a saint / saintly? If so, why / why not?
I definitely wouldn’t describe myself as ‘saintly’, I’m quite the opposite, the devil on your shoulder kind of character. I tend to always push myself to the limits, whether it’s fire eating or doing underwater escapes. I have a very cheeky side that likes to step out when on stage that is far from a saint approval! 

4. Why should audiences come and see your show at the Melbourne Magic Festival this year?
It’s quite a simple answer, 2 performers, double the fun, double the magic, double the price…. Actually no, same price 😉 – while you’re at it, why not take 15% off tickets using codeword: ‘TAY’.

5. What are you most looking forward to at the 2023 Melbourne Magic Festival?
I’m most looking forward to just working alongside my best friend, taking it all in and simply allowing the show to take both Jay and I on a journey. Our show is across 3 nights and when you get to do what you love, with the company you love, then I believe that will not only show through to the audience on stage, however it’ll also make me a better performer on the evening.

Well, let’s just take Luke’s word for it – Double the fun, double the magic, and don’t forget 15% off with the codeword ‘TAY’ (haha!) what a good deal! Don’t miss out on a devilishly good time, book here!

Leave a comment