The Great Armando has visited The Melbourne Magic Festival many times previously, always with his top hat and iconic Italian flair and penchant for storytelling. The Great Armando’s next adventure this year is called “Magia! Magia!”. Learn more about this show and The Great Armando’s influences below!

1. Tell us more about your show title … why the repetition and what’s the meaning behind it?
Ah, bellissimo! The title of my show, “Magia Magia”, has a truly special meaning. During one of my performances, I invited the audience to choose a magic word and a young child who was learning Italian, eagerly shouted out “Magia!” which means, well, magic in Italian.

Magic is a universal language that transcends culture and speech. It has the power to ignite wonder and create connections that go beyond words. By repeating the word “Magia” I add a touch of whimsy, a sprinkle of excitement that sets the stage for the enchanting world of magic I will create for my audience.

2. You’ve performed at many previous Melbourne Magic Festivals. Why should audiences come and see your show this year?
I’ve had the pleasure of performing at the Melbourne Magic Festival for many years, and each time I try to bring something new and special.

I’ve been working on brand, new magic that bridges the gap between children and parents, to offer a fulfilling experience for the whole family. I think that “Magia Magia” is truly a show for the whole family, where each interaction can be enjoyed at any age.

My show is a magical journey that combines the art of illusion, comedy and audience participation, all with an Italian twist. “Magia Magia” is more than just a show; it’s an opportunity for families to come together where the audience is an integral part of the show.

3. What are you most looking forward to at the 2023 Melbourne Magic Festival?
I’m mostly looking forward to the sense of wonder and astonishment that permeates the festival. It’s a gathering of some of the finest magicians from Australia (and the world), showcasing their incredible skills and bringing smiles to the faces of audiences. The opportunity to connect with fellow magicians, exchange ideas and witness their amazing performances is something I cherish. But most of all, I’m eager to see the wide-eyed expressions and hear the laughter of the children as they experience the magic firsthand. Their pure amazement fuels my passion for what I do, and it’s a feeling I look forward to embracing once again.

4. Do you have a favourite card? If so, what is it?
Cards have an incredible history and meaning, spanning from superstition to numerology. If I had to choose a favourite, it would be the Five of Hearts.
Hearts symbolise love and passion, and the number 5 suggests a sense of adventure. When combined, the Five of Hearts can symbolise growth and harmony, and that is my take on magic – that perfect balance between fun and astonishment, and passion and tradition. It’s a card that holds a special place in my magical repertoire, both for its meaning and because it is aesthetically pleasing.

5. Do you have a particular favourite memory of performing at past Melbourne Magic Festivals?
There are so many wonderful memories from past Melbourne Magic Festivals that choosing just one is a delightful challenge. Each year, I eagerly anticipate these two weeks of pure magic. The Australian magic community is like a big, joyful family – a group of friends coming together to celebrate the art we all love.

However, if I must select a favourite memory, let me take you back to last year when I had the great honour of performing at Magic Sports, which is magic improv. I must confess, I felt a touch of apprehension sharing the stage with such talented magicians, especially considering English is not my native language. Improvising in another language can present its own unique challenges.

It turned out to be an amazing evening. The audience loved it and I walked away with a new magic trick I will be performing this year, the incredible mindreading flamingo!

This year, more than ever, The Melbourne Magic Festival presents a great chance for families to come together and enjoy a day out and experience the wonder of magic. “Magia! Magia!” certainly seems to fit the bill – grab those tickets here before they disappear!