Hong Kong performers revive magical past

Master's apprentice

Hong Kong's magicians and magic enthusiasts have dedicated their own finances, resources, and time to foster the growth of the art form in the city.

The Magicians' Association of Hong Kong boasts more than 200 members and has orchestrated numerous events, including the first Greater Bay Area Golden Bauhinia Magic Competition. Pui's Hong Kong Schools Magic Association has also organized 10 magic competitions over the past decade.

Bond Lee, president of the Hong Kong Magic School, which was established about 13 years ago, believes that nurturing talent is crucial to the development of the industry.

John Chung Lai-ho was one of Lee's students.

Chung discovered his love for magic in primary school while playing with magic props brought by his classmates.

After discovering a nearby magic shop, he asked his parents to buy him some magic props. His parents did so after he fulfilled a commitment to do well in his school studies.

Realizing the child's dedication to prestidigitation, his family enrolled him in a magic course at a community center.

"Throughout my childhood, I delved into myriad activities like playing the piano, boxing and other activities, but none could hold my interest for more than three months — only magic maintained a constant allure for me," Chung said.

After two years of studying magic, Chung won his first magic competition. The first prize was a chance to take one of Bond Lee's master classes, and Chung eventually became Lee's apprentice.

Under Lee's mentorship for a decade, Chung learned tricks, honed his craft, did performances, and entered competitions to test his skills. In his junior year at Hong Kong Baptist University, he made a bold decision — to forgo his studies and commit to a career as a full-time magician.

"I didn't want to waste any more time. The call to immerse myself in magic was undeniable at that time," Chung said.

However, shortly after making his career decision, COVID-19 swept through Hong Kong, halting all performances.

Eventually, in search of fresh opportunities, Chung went to the mainland. Through a series of trials, he teamed up with like-minded friends and opened a comedy and magic theater in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.