The sequel to the box office smash Now You See Me hits theatres today. In preparation for the film, we took to the streets to have our minds blown by the city’s best magicians, mentalists and illusionists.
Mysterious Mind Readers
The Sentimentalists, Steffi Kay and Mysterion
How did you learn the tricks of the trade?
Everything we do is self-taught and created by ourselves. We like to take mentalism and turn it back to the ’20s and ’30s, when two-person acts were popular in vaudeville.
What’s your favourite trick to perform?
The one that blows people away is when Steffi is able to tell you items in your wallet with incredible detail. It’s personal and impossible, and people react to it with a sense of awe.
it’s all an Illusion
Ray Chance, illusionist/street magician
When did you first become interested in magic?
Mid, late ’80s. David Copperfield walking through the Great Wall of China still amazes me. He was the mark of an amazing entertainer.
Have you ever revealed your secrets to a participant?
Yes! Often, but only a piece of the puzzle. It is always built into a routine of entertainment, designed to create those feelings of excitement, wonder, astonishment and lots of laughter.
Playing Mind Games
Bobby Motta, mentalist
What is your favourite trick to perform?
Very hard to say, but I definitely prefer the kind that my audience can relate to: this way I can bring them into my world and play with their perspectives.
When did you first become interested in mentalism?
Being a close-up magician, then getting into standup and illusions, it became apparent that mentalism was what I excelled at. It’s magic for the intellect. It’s less about a demonstration and more of an exploration.
Pick a card … any card
Rosemary Reid, magician
How did you learn the tricks of the trade?
Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp, one of only two worldwide! Kids can register to join us this year in Haliburton, Ont., from Aug. 7 to 12. Visit .
Is there a famous magician that you look up to? An American magician named Eugene Burger, who I am beyond excited to meet in person at this year’s Masters of Magic Convention in Saint-Vincent, Italy!
