Speaking through a Deck of Cards Hyun tea Kim

‘And voilá my amigos! All four beautiful queens.’ I reveal the top four cards of the deck with a thin smirk. The kids simultaneously call out ‘Show us more! Show us more please.’ Regardless of age or gender or culture, everyone loves a well-executed card trick.

Ever since childhood, I was always interested in cards, whether they featured Pokémon or the familiar suits of a Bicycle deck. Technology has introduced humanity to a world where our imagination is our limitation, but it’s amusing to notice how quickly people become indulged into a plain pack of playing cards.

Paradoxically, a single flick of the wrist can dazzle and impress more than computer graphics. I devote many hours to master reflexes which last only one-tenth of a second perfectly. Not only the tricks themselves, but a successful magician must also be an entertainer. I make a great effort to implant stories and naturally blend in card flourishes between tricks. This way I can effectively catch the attention of the audience and put on a show. When everything goes right, I sit back, smile, and fully appreciate the looks of amazement and bewilderment as I show people something ordinary in an extraordinary light.