This Saturday evening (May 31), the talented magician Jeffrey Wang will perform at Nanyang Theater in a show that expertly merges comedy with magic. Since childhood, Wang has been captivated by magic, developing a distinctive style that intertwines amazement with humor. Notable achievements in his career include being part of the esteemed Hollywood Magic Castle and featuring on the U.S. television show Penn and Teller: Fool Us.
Ahead of his upcoming performance, we spoke with Wang to learn more about his initial interest in magic, his inspiration for combining it with comedy, and what audiences can anticipate from his show this Saturday.
How did you first become interested in magic, and how long have you been practicing it? I've loved magic since I was young, but it started as just a hobby. Later, while studying in the U.S., I joined the Hollywood Magic Castle. Now, I've been a professional magician for about three years.
What inspired you to merge comedy with magic, and how did you enter this unique field? Many magicians have enjoyed mixing magic with humor for a long time, and I'm certainly not the first. I really like delivering that combination of amazement and joy to the audience.
What was your initial experience performing as a comedy magician like? Did any tricks go amusingly wrong? I initially began adding jokes to my magic acts, and the audience responded positively, leading me to specialize in comedy magic. As for any "hilarious fails," many of those moments are intentional! I design certain instances where the magic seems to falter, transforming them into punchlines.
What have been your most memorable moments on stage thus far? I've been on various TV shows, performed at prestigious Spring Festival Galas for leading universities, and received awards at magic competitions. Each time I receive applause or a standing ovation from the audience, those are my most cherished moments on stage.
You appeared on Penn and Teller Fool Us. Can you share more about that experience? Fool Us is a highly esteemed show, and participating in it is a dream for many magicians. It took significant work on my part to persuade the producers and secure my place on that stage. The filming took place in Las Vegas over a week and was later aired nationwide in the U.S.
Are there any magicians or comedians who have significantly influenced your style or approach? I have great admiration for Mac King and Mat Franco. Their styles of magic have had a considerable impact on my own performance.
What can people expect from your upcoming show? Attendees can look forward to an enjoyable blend of fascinating magic effects and gentle humor, along with moments of audience interaction. Relax and enjoy the show!
Lastly, do you have any advice for aspiring performers who want to integrate magic and comedy? I recommend watching a variety of performances by outstanding, classic magicians to develop your artistic taste. Experiencing enough shows will help you discover your preferences, allowing you to start infusing your own ideas into your performances.
Magic Comedy by Jeffrey Wang will take place on Saturday, May 31, at Green Box, Nanyang Theater, starting at 7:30 PM. Early bird tickets are RMB 100, while standard tickets are RMB 150. Tickets can be purchased by scanning the QR code on the poster above.
Greenbox, Nanyang Hutong #66, Dongcheng District, 东城区南阳胡同6号
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Images: courtesy of Jeffrey Wang
Get ready to be astonished and entertained by the skilled magician Jeffrey Wang.