Magicians

Magicians are performers who present magic tricks designed to entertain by creating the appearance of impossible or improbable feats. They rely on sleight of hand, misdirection, carefully constructed props, and psychological techniques to produce wonder rather than deception.

The practice has ancient roots in rituals and street performances across cultures, but modern stage magic developed in Europe and North America during the 18th and 19th centuries. Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin is often credited with popularizing professional conjuring in the 19th century, helping establish a repertoire of illusions and a framework for performance. In the 20th century, televised and touring acts broadened the form, giving rise to specialists in close-up magic, stage illusions, and mentalism.

Magicians perform in a variety of contexts, including theatres, television specials, cruise ships, private events, and street or corporate venues. Common formats include close-up magic, performed with cards, coins, and everyday objects; stage and prop-based illusions; and mentalism or prediction effects. Escape acts, levitation, and large-scale illusions have also become recognizable elements of the field.

Famous figures associated with magic include historical practitioners such as Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin and Harry Houdini, as well as contemporary performers like Penn and Teller, David Copperfield, and Derren Brown. Ethical norms in magic emphasize preserving secrecy about methods to maintain audience astonishment, while safety considerations and clear consent guide public performances.