Wonders of the mind.

Magic. It simply enthrals me. I'm not talking about pulling rabbits out of hats, never-ending handkerchiefs in the pocket, sawing someone in half (although that one is pretty exciting). No, this kind of magic has been exhausted generation after generation, with people's quest to discover how the magician does it. 

I just don't understand this concept. It completely destroys the magic in a puff of smoke. For me, the magic is the element of the unknown. Without this element, it is no longer magical; it becomes simply ordinary, like riding a bike or driving a car. Anybody could do it. 

Last night I went to see an amazing local magician called Sylar. He's not a cliché,  wand-bearing wizard but a psychological illusionist. 

Deceptions: Wonders of the Mind saw him manipulating the minds of his audience, controlling their thoughts. Even the biggest cynic would not be able to work how he did some of the tricks he did last night. There were tricks with symbols, money, and it concluded with him actually reading a member of the audience's mind. He demonstrated all of this with random members of the audience and I for one was completely blown away. For all I know, I could have been under a spell or hypnotised, but either way, it worked ...

He specialises in close-up magic as opposed to big, theatrical sets. The simplicity  accentuates his talent. He doesn't need creepy music or lighting, from the outset, he had audiences utterly gripped. They were focused on the tiniest of details, highlighting the smoothness and skill with which he works.

Despite being used to one-on-one interaction and street magic, the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury was the perfect stage to showcase his talent to a bigger audience. There must have been roughly a hundred people there but the venue was warm and intimate with a great view for all. I stuck around afterwards to watch some close-up stuff  for his website with playing cards and the atmosphere was brilliant. I'd watched a couple of videos on YouTube but they just don't do him justice. To see something which doesn't seem possible, with your naked eye, is quite breathtaking. 

Sylar is incredibly talented and I hope he gets the big break he deserves. He is genuinely up there with the likes of Derren Brown and Dynamo, but has a great personality which sets him above the rest. Audience participation was met without reluctance, as his warmth of character shone through. There was humour, modesty and his passion for his art is refreshing time and time again.

If any of you get the chance to go and see him, it is a truly wonderful show and you won't be disappointed. You can follow him on Twitter and Facebook, take a look at his website and there are a variety of videos on YouTube. He is also available for private functions such as parties or weddings. 

Prepare to be confused, stimulated and shocked all at once, it's a magical experience.