The Mo(st) Magic seen in Sandton City
When in Sandton for a magical show run, Mo Magic shared some of his background as a magician who started out an engineer.
For four special days in Sandton, Durban-based magical entertainer and mentalist Mahommed ‘Mo Magic’ Moorad blew the minds of children and adults alike at the Theatre on the Square.
Moorad took a moment after the opening night show on September 4 to talk about how his journey as a professional magician began 14 years ago after he had chosen to walk away from the engineering field.
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He recalled having attended personal development classes which spurred him into reflecting on the direction his life was heading in. It was after watching an American television show during that period that Moorad decided to learn the craft which would define his place in South African entertainment someday.
“I began the art of magic about 21 years ago when I was a university student. I was questioning my path in life, thinking to myself if engineering is the way for me,” Moorad reflected. “I started learning magic, absorbing it like a sponge from books, and from the internet. I learnt about magic societies, and I joined one; then, this grew from a hobby, into a part-time career, and, in 2010, I resigned from my engineering career.”
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Moorad’s magical production Stage of Wonders ran in Sandton from September 4–8. The show was characterised by Mo Magic’s uncanny mentalism, mind-breaking magical illusionary, and the magical way in which he wove storytelling into his presentation of magic.
“For me, magic is a very personal experience about spreading joy. I think storytelling is very important, otherwise, it’s just a trick. But, if you pair the trick with a presentation, bring people onto stage and get them emotionally involved, and you infuse a positive message – all these things combine to give people that magical experience.”
A great feature of Stage of Wonders is that audience members get a chance to participate.
“I can see when somebody’s body language is introverted, so I know I ought not to invite them onto the stage. But when people are sitting at the edge of their seats, with eyes wide open, I ask them if they would like to join on stage; if they say yes, then that’s great, and if they say no then it’s perfectly fine.”
Moorad concluded with words of thanks to the theatre community in Sandton, and the staff at the Theatre on the Square for their roles in his show having enjoyed a successful 2024 run.
“The thing I love most about performing in Sandton, and at this theatre, is the theatre staff here, they know what they’re doing and they’re top-notch. This 200-seater venue, also, is perfect for magic. People can be seated anywhere, and they will still see something like a Bitcoin, or a ring magically reappear on the string. You could hear people gasping in awe and that’s why I love it here.”
Moorad also does corporate events, and his routine comes recommended if you’re looking to treat your employees to a magical year-end party.
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