OMG IT’S MAGIC!

GWILYM BUGEJA ANNOYED HIS FAMILY AUDIENCE WITH HIS FIRST CARD TRICK AGED 6 – BUT TODAY, HE AMAZES CROWDS WITH HIS REPERTOIRE OF SURPRISES.

“My Dad taught me a card trick when I was a child and I just was so fascinated by it that I kept repeating it. When I saw local illusionist Vanni Pule’ perform, I became completely hooked. By age 12, I was absorbing as much as I could from YouTube videos and spent an unhealthy amount of time practising! I would show my tricks to my school friends and their reactions egged me on to learn more and more and I started to use my humour as part of my performances.

I learned a lot from Vanni, having lessons on different types of illusions and as soon as I felt I had a proper show to give, I started OMG Magic, which today is known for comedy magic shows. I like close-up magic as well as doing intimate events, performing around a table at weddings or corporate events. Of course, I love being on stage too!

Each member of the audience has their own experience – and what I like the most about it all is how they react, especially when

I’m wandering around a venue and free to pick anyone out to mesmerise! This aspect is great when doing shows for children as well, but to give an adult such a feeling of awe, is incredible.

Performing for children is a lot of fun. Whilst I incorporate the same principles, performing to them allows me to unleash my childish, silly side as well. The wide-eyed reactions are a joy to watch, though children can be quite a difficult audience. While they don’t have the logic just yet to understand their own bewilderment, you can see them trying hard to work out what just happened.

The goal with any show is to take the participants on a journey, to have fun, to laugh and to amaze. It’s a build up to an OMG moment!

Part of my performance is my attire. These are a bit more of my expensive hobby than anything else, but I do love a wild suit. I have 24 performance suits which I justify as a part of the show; a visual image for people to marvel at. They have become part of my brand – and as my name is a bit of a tongue twister – it’s good to have this visual reference. I have been asked if they are made for me or magicians – but they are just regular suits. No hidden pockets or extra sleeves. Just lots of colour and character! www.omgmagic.com.mt

A lot goes into a show, yet it’s key to keep your performances fresh and innovative and setting up at a venue takes a lot of time in itself. I enjoy obscure and illogical tricks and try to steer clear of the traditional expectations of a magician. So I haven’t sawn a woman in half… but I love wor king with a Rubik’s Cube; I can do them blindfolded, with one hand and have also created art from them in the past.

I have recently become a member of the Magic Circle, the illustrious organisation for the craft. We have meetings online and in person, and to become a member, you must perform, pass an exam and as well as an interview too. Indeed, this month I am heading up to the UK to do some shows and I have another few lined up for The Netherlands too. My goal is to become a truly international performer. And I must thank my girlfriend who is always amazed when I show her a new segment - or maybe I have cast a spell on her… who knows!

OMG! Magic is available for children’s parties, corporate entertainment, trade shows, fundraisers and weddings.

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