A great magician understands what it means to be human, and is why a master’s degree in psychology from NUS enabled Alexander Yuen to take his craft up a notch. Not only did it teach him to leverage on direction and dispersion of attention during performances, but also to evoke wonder through body language and semantic association (interconnected thoughts that help us make sense of our perceptions).
But to be precise, Yuen is currently more of an illusionist. A magician uses simple objects like cards and coins while an illusionist uses elaborate props and boasts a theatrical production. “I started with cards and coins, but now do more performances on a bigger stage,” he explains.
His signature act is something called iPad magic, which combines technology with magic techniques such as sleight of hand. Advanced programming has allowed him to elevate his performances. “When I first started, I only had one iPad. Now, I can programme and connect multiple iPads together, increasing the scale of illusions.”
Curiously, luxury brands are particularly fond of the visual effects iPad magic conjures. As such, they regularly engage him for brand activations.
Yuen co-founded magic production company Meta Illusions in 2012. Besides private shows, it also offers corporate entertainment and magic mentorship. “However, most of my bookings are still for iPad magic,” he adds.
Knowing what it means to be human also means he makes sure to give back. In 2022, Lien Foundation, which channels philanthropic efforts into palliative care, eldercare, and maternal and child health, approached him to teach magic to the elderly. The end goal was to have them stage a performance in a theatre.
“I was immediately on board with the idea because I’ve always wanted to do more with magic. I want to create a positive impact on society.”
The initiative was a part of the Seniors Go! programme, which teaches participants new activities to foster active ageing. There were two objectives. One, have them pick up a skill they could use to engage people like their grandchildren. Two, prove that the elderly are not too old to learn new skills.
Participants responded with enthusiasm and other organisations decided to come on board. Yuen eventually also ran the programme for Allkin Singapore and Catholic Welfare Services.
In light of the success of Seniors Go!, the Lien Foundation requested that Yuen to up the ante and teach magic tricks to healthcare professionals so they can perform them for patients and inspire them to pick up the tricks. The programme is currently available to occupational therapists at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and psychologists at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. “Both groups have different goals, but their visions are similar—to enhance patient engagement and well-being through magic,” says Yuen.
Training depends on their objectives. For instance, because the occupational therapists often find that patients are often unmotivated to carry out repetitive exercises, Yuen designed magic tricks that simulate their prescribed exercises. Similarly, the psychologists want to build stronger rapport with their patients, so he customised tricks that facilitate collaboration. These interactions help enhance the psychosocial well-being of patients.
The rollout is only the first phase, says Yuen. “This collaboration provides an alternative method to reach out to patients and support their well-being. It holds immense potential for positive societal impact. I’m looking forward to using my craft to make a meaningful difference.”
Art director: Ed Harland
Videographer: Alicia Chong
Photographers: Mun Kong & Cher Him
Photographer’s assistant: RJ Teo
Hair & makeup: Aung Apichai using Gucci Beauty & Kevin Murphy
Hair & makeup (Denica Riadini-Flesch): Dorcas using Dior, Nars, Milbon & Tigi Bed Head
