Techno week to get off to a magical start

World famous magician Marco Tempest gave 'shop-lifting' a whole new meaning when he used his powers yesterday to levitate a small table, at BurJuman Centre.

The trick was but a sample of the mesmerising attractions in store for young and old alike at the opening ceremony of Techno Surprises Week on Thursday.

The weeklong programme filled with technology-related activities and events is being organised by Dubai Police.

Present at the press conference were Maj. Mohammed Ahmed Bin Dylan, Head of the Techno Surprises Committee, and Maj. Aqil Mustafa Al Janahi, general coordinator of the initiative.

The opening ceremony will feature a show by Tempest entitled 'Digimagical World' at 7.30pm at the Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Hall, Indian High School.

"Digimagical World is performed for the first time in the region. The event is unique in its kind and has been realised on purpose for Dubai Techno Surprises Week," said Maj. Dylan.

Tempest explained that his show combines magic and computer technology, using computer-generated imagery, video screens, music and stagecraft.

"Technology is around us, but some people are still afraid of it. The show takes a positive approach to technology and suggests it can be used to have fun. People can be educated to enjoy technology and my performance is a step in this direction," said the magician.

Born in Switzerland, Tempest discovered magic at the tender age of seven. By the age of 22, he had bagged the prestigious New York World Cup of Magic, propelling him into international prominence.

Ten years ago, he started using technology in magic, revising the age-old art and opening new frontiers to magic exploration.

When asked about the difference between traditional and digital magic, Tempest replied: "My magic is not so different from the traditional one, in the sense that I simply use a different means.

"Throughout history, magicians such as Houdini were attributed supernatural powers, but in reality they were scientists with a deep knowledge of the possibilities offered by scientific applications... With technology, it is the same. I know how to use it and I exploit this to amuse people."

Tempest's performance at the Dubai Techno Surprises opening is shrouded in mystery. He did not unveil any details, but invited the public to join the show and discover the magic with their own eyes.

"I look forward to displaying my show and feel enthusiastic. I have never been here and this is the first time that the people of the UAE have a chance to watch my show. This is extremely exciting for me," he said.

Tempest, supported by a group of dancers from Las Vegas, said the show is going to focus more on illusion rather than magic and gave a quick sample of his abilities.

"Don't look at magic trying to understand its secrets, but look at it with the eyes of a child watching a sunset," advised Tempest.

No secrets were revealed, but the introduction promised great fun for the public attending the show on Thursday.

The ceremony will be open to the public and will be preceded by a performance of the 'Freaks' show from Star Wars movies.