Ever wondered what it's like to be hypnotised, or if it's possible for someone to read your mind? Or maybe you're fascinated by sleights of hand and trying to figure out how they were accomplished. Whatever form of magic you're interested in, the Melbourne Magic Festival is sure to cast its spell on you when it arrives in Melbourne on July 1.
Since its launch in 2008, the festival has grown to become the largest festival of its kind, attracting more than 8,000 magic fans from all over the country last year. This year, enjoy two weeks packed full of more than 250 performances of more than 40 different shows by local magicians and international stars.
This year, the headline international act is Hector Macha – a Spaniard who has previously been crowned with the dazzling title of magic world champion. Other highlights include the Quizzical Mr Jeff (a fun family show that blends circus with magic), Cotidiano (contemporary illusionist who uses everyday objects) and Josh Staley (one of card magic's top practitioners).
The list of performers and shows is about as long as one of those colourful scarves magicians pull out of people's ears, so check the website and prepare to be amazed.