“Before there can be wonders, there must be wonder.”
— David Copperfield
David Copperfield, one of the most influential magicians of all time, understands something that goes beyond sleight of hand, illusions, and grand stage productions. This quote reminds us that magic doesn’t begin with the trick—it begins in the mind of the spectator.
For wonder to exist, we must be open to experiencing it. It’s not just about what happens—it’s about how we perceive it. Whether I’m performing for families in Glenside, creating moments of astonishment in Warrington, or sharing illusions at an event in Flourtown, I see how the best magic isn’t just about fooling the audience—it’s about awakening their sense of wonder.
What It Means for Magicians
A magician’s job isn’t just to execute a trick—it’s to set the stage for wonder. A card trick, a levitation, or an impossible escape is only effective if the audience is ready to embrace the mystery.
At a recent show in Warrington, I performed an illusion where a signed playing card disappeared and reappeared in a sealed envelope. But the true magic didn’t come from the mechanics of the trick. It came from the moment before the reveal—when the audience held their breath, waiting to see the impossible unfold. That anticipation, that suspension of disbelief, is what makes magic powerful.
Copperfield’s quote is a reminder that before a magician can create wonders, they must first inspire wonder.
What It Means for the Audience
For the audience, the most powerful magic happens when they allow themselves to believe in something extraordinary.
At an event in Glenside, I noticed two very different types of reactions in the crowd. Some people leaned in, eyes wide with curiosity, ready to be amazed. Others stood back, arms crossed, focused on trying to figure it out. Guess which group had a better time?
Wonder isn’t just about not knowing how something works—it’s about embracing the feeling that comes with experiencing something magical. Just like when we watch a beautiful sunset, hear a moving piece of music, or witness an act of kindness, the magic isn’t in understanding—it’s in feeling.
Everyday Magic: Cultivating Wonder in Life
David Copperfield’s words apply far beyond the stage. Wonder isn’t something that just happens—it’s something we must invite into our lives. Here’s how you can cultivate more wonder in your everyday experiences:
- Be Present in the Moment
- In Magic: The best magic happens when the audience is fully engaged, not distracted.
- In Life: Put down your phone, take a deep breath, and truly experience what’s happening around you. Wonder exists in the moments we slow down enough to notice.
- Ask ‘What If?’ More Often
- In Magic: Every great illusion starts with the question, “What if this were possible?”
- In Life: Instead of dismissing something as impossible, approach it with curiosity. What if you could achieve that dream? What if things worked out better than you expected?
- Seek Out the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
- In Magic: A magician makes a simple deck of cards feel like a doorway to the impossible.
- In Life: Even everyday things—like the way a butterfly lands on a flower or how a child sees the world—can be magical if you take the time to appreciate them.
- Let Yourself Be Surprised
- In Magic: The best spectators aren’t the ones trying to catch the magician—they’re the ones allowing themselves to enjoy the moment.
- In Life: Instead of trying to predict everything, allow room for surprise. Life’s best moments often come when we least expect them.
- Create Wonder for Others
- In Magic: A magician’s goal is to make people feel amazed and inspired.
- In Life: Whether it’s through a thoughtful gesture, a meaningful conversation, or sharing something beautiful, you have the power to bring moments of wonder into other people’s lives.
Wrapping Up: Embracing Wonder in Glenside, Warrington, and Flourtown
David Copperfield’s quote reminds us that before we can experience wonders, we must first embrace wonder. Whether I’m performing in Glenside, engaging audiences in Warrington, or bringing magic to an event in Flourtown, I see firsthand how those who are open to wonder experience magic in a way that stays with them long after the trick is over.
So, when was the last time you let yourself truly experience wonder? How can you bring more of it into your life? Let’s keep making the world a little more magical—one moment at a time.
