Producing Asia’s and Singapore’s first underwater Magic Show

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Producing Asia’s and Singapore’s first underwater Magic Show

05 Nov 2024

Producing Asia’s and Singapore’s first underwater Magic Show

Case Study: Singapore Magicians Network’s Underwater Magic Show at Underwater World

Singapore's first underwater magic show

Singapore’s first underwater magic show

Background of Singapore Magicians Network

Singapore Magicians Network (SMN) which is the predecessor of Asia Magicians Network, a group of magicians in Singapore, has a history of bringing innovative performances to the local entertainment scene. Our goal is to elevate the craft of magic while reaching new audiences with captivating and unique shows. In line with this mission, SMN set its sights on producing Singapore’s first underwater magic show, an ambitious project aimed at creating a visually immersive experience for audiences by blending magic with marine life.

This was achieved in 2014 by SMN, conceptualised and produced Singapore magician Kien and performed by Kyle Ravin. It was all over the news and recorded in Singapore’s Book of Records.

Challenge of an underwater magic show

underwater magician showing an item to the producer

Our underwater magician has to come up with communication tool with the producer to allow efficient rehearsal of the show

The concept of an underwater magic show presented several unique challenges. Magic typically relies on sleight of hand and visual illusions that are difficult to execute underwater due to the constraints of movement and visibility. Additionally, performing magic surrounded by fish and other marine animals added complexity, as performers needed to adapt to the aquarium environment and ensure the safety of both the marine life and the audience.

The Singapore Magicians Network also faced logistical and technical challenges, including:

  • Waterproofing Magic Props: Traditional magic props had to be modified or specially designed to work underwater. For instance, we used Chinese New Year cloth scrolls which disintegrated after a few practices. Hence, we had to experiment with many different materials.
  • Visibility and Lighting: Ensuring that the audience could clearly view the magic tricks despite the refraction, thick glass and dim lighting in the aquarium.
  • Breath Control and Performer Training: Magicians had to undergo specific training to perform while holding their breath or using underwater breathing apparatuses.
  • Animal Safety: The performance had to be carefully choreographed to avoid disturbing the marine life, requiring close coordination with the aquarium’s marine biologists.
  • Safety of the magician: We had an assistant for the magician as well as a safety crew on standby to ensure the safety of everyone. We also have to ensure we have insurance and immunity to protect all parties involved.

The Collaboration

Underwater World Singapore, one of the country’s most popular marine attractions, was an ideal partner for this groundbreaking show. The aquarium offered a unique stage—the underwater tunnel—that allowed the audience to view the show from an enclosed, 83-meter-long glass tunnel. Here, spectators could watch magicians performing their tricks underwater, with marine life swimming around them, creating a magical atmosphere.

In partnership with Underwater World, SMN designed a show that highlighted illusions enhanced by the underwater environment. Tricks that involved disappearing and reappearing objects, changing $2 to $100, and linking rings interlocking seemingly on their own mesmerized the audience, all while surrounded by majestic marine creatures like rays and reef sharks. By utilizing the aquarium’s in-house dive team for safety and logistical support, the team was able to ensure a seamless, visually stunning experience.

Show Production and Execution

The show required a team of divers, underwater lighting specialists, and marine experts to ensure each performance ran smoothly and safely. The SMN magicians trained for months, learning to perform their routines in restrictive dive suits and modifying hand gestures to be visible and effective in the slow-motion environment underwater.

As various news media covered the story, the premiere show was packed, as locals and tourists alike were eager to witness this unique spectacle. The performance was met with critical acclaim and media attention, positioning SMN as an innovator in live entertainment in Singapore and attracting a steady stream of visitors to Underwater World.

Booking and Expanding the Underwater Magic Show

The success of Singapore’s first underwater magic show paved the way for SMN to offer this performance to other aquariums and marine attractions worldwide. Aquariums seeking to add an unforgettable, immersive experience to their programming can benefit from hosting an underwater magic show.

Why Aquariums Around the World Should Consider Booking This Underwater Magic Show

  • Enhanced Visitor Experience: The underwater magic show provides a fresh and thrilling experience for guests, differentiating the aquarium from other marine attractions.
  • Increased Media Exposure: Hosting such a unique performance can attract media attention, providing valuable publicity for the aquarium.
  • Educational Opportunities: The show creates an opportunity for aquariums to educate visitors about marine conservation and the importance of protecting underwater ecosystems.
  • Repeat Visitation: A seasonal or recurring underwater magic show can drive repeat visitation, as audiences return for an experience that is both rare and memorable.

Aquariums interested in booking the underwater magic show can collaborate with Asia Magician Network to tailor the performance to their specific tank setup and resident marine species. Asia Magician Network provides a full package, including trained underwater magicians, technical support, and safety protocols to ensure that the show complements the aquarium’s marine environment while maintaining the highest standards for animal welfare.

By creating a captivating, one-of-a-kind attraction, aquariums can enhance their appeal and inspire visitors through the fusion of magic and marine wonder.

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