Southeast Asian magicians are redefining the art of magic, blending creativity, skill and showmanship to captivate audiences across the globe. Their jaw-dropping illusions and mesmerising close-up tricks showcase rich talent and unique flair for entertainment. Each magician brings their own distinctive style, combining traditional techniques with modern twists to leave spectators spellbound and inspired. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia shares its list (presented in no particular order) of the top 10 most spellbinding Southeast Asian magicians—artists whose dedication, passion and extraordinary talent have earned them international acclaim. Whether performing on grand stages, in intimate venues, or at exclusive events, these magicians prove that Southeast Asian performers are at the forefront of the magic world, enchanting audiences with every act and elevating their reputation in the global magic community.
Mac Florendo
Mac Florendo, known as The Voice of Magic, is the founder and creator of Metro Magic, the premiere magic production collective in the Philippines. He is also the visionary behind Impossibros, bringing a modern, youthful energy to the world of magic entertainment. Mac began his journey creating magic and cardistry videos, eventually becoming a hand talent for national TV commercials for major brands. He is the Champion of the Runit Decks Cardistry Deathmatch at Card Con PH 2017, a milestone that cemented his place in the Filipino magic and cardistry community. He founded Metro Magic Academy to mentor the next generation of Filipino magicians and is an active member of The Story Circle and Magicians Foundation Inc. Beyond magic, Mac is also a director, producer, actor, host, broadcaster and voice artist. He has performed on television, at major live events, corporate shows, private celebrations and for top brands, making him one of the most versatile magic performers in the country.
Ryan Goh
Ryan Goh is an internationally acclaimed magician and the best magician in Singapore for unforgettable events. Renowned for his charismatic stage presence and unmatched class, Ryan is a master of stage magic that captivates audiences at corporate events entertainment and various special occasions. Offstage, Ryan Goh delights attendees with mesmerising close-up magic and witty humour, creating an engaging experience that leaves everyone in awe. His roving magic performances ensure that each guest feels the thrill of his craft, making any event unforgettable. In the enchanting confines of a theatre, Ryan constructs an atmosphere of mystery, transporting audiences into a world of wonder. Here, illusions unfold with precision and flair, establishing him as a premier choice for stage entertainment in Singapore. In 2023, Ryan’s exceptional talent was recognised when he received the prestigious Best Newcomer Award at the Melbourne Magic Festival, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best magicians for events entertainment in Singapore.
Normando Macalinao
Normando Macalinao is an internationally acclaimed magician and one of the most captivating magicians from the Philippines, now performing for luxury events across Dubai and the United Kingdom. Growing up in the quiet farmlands of Aliaga, Nueva Ecija, Normando discovered his love for magic as a young boy, inspired by a single trick that sparked a lifelong passion. Despite humble beginnings, he practiced tirelessly with whatever he could find—old cards, coins and imagination—turning determination into extraordinary skill. In Dubai, Normando transformed from a waiter into a world-renowned magician, wowing guests with floating cards, earning recognition from Hollywood celebrities, global superstars and royal families from around the world. His talent was showcased on Netflix’s Dubai Bling, and he was named one of the “Top 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf” by Illustrado Magazine. Today, performing in the United Kingdom, Normando continues to mesmerise audiences, creating unforgettable moments and inspiring millions with his story of dreams, resilience and magic.
Kent Oliver V. Estrada
Kent Oliver V. Estrada is an international illusionist from the Philippines and is known as “The First Filipino Grand Illusionist” whose modern interpretation gratifies the hunger of audiences seeking for spectacle and mind-boggling feats of illusion. After delving into the craft of magic at the age of six years old, Kent soon became an international illusionist. Kent travels the world with his shows. He performed In Spain, Greece, Italy, France, Rome, Civitavecchia, Monaco, Montecarlo, UK, Egypt, Amsterdam, Germany, Turkey, La-Valetta, Brazil, Taiwan, Japan, India, Hongkong, Qatar, Jordan, Iran, China, Malaysia, Thailand and U.A.E where he honed his skills as an illusionist. He Is The first Filipino to perform in Europe, Caribbean, Mediterranean and Middle East aboard luxurious cruise-ships and on land. Kent also performed with 6,000 guests in Sri-Lanka during his grand tour shows with the Sri-Lankan president as the special guest. He also performed in Malaysia and Thailand during the Christmas and New Year’s Eve countdown tour shows.
Patrick Kun
Patrick Kun is a Thai magician who has appeared on America’s Got Talent, consulted for David Copperfield, starred in a national Coca-Cola TV commercial, and recently earned second runner-up on Korea’s Magic Star television competition. The key to Patrick’s success lies in his genuine love of bringing happiness and wonder to his audiences. Known for his highly visual style and storytelling, his performances are often described as “CGI in person”. His magic is designed to be experienced up close, creating moments that feel impossible yet deeply personal. Patrick loves performing close-up magic with people, as it allows them to experience magic right under their nose. Blending refined sleight of hand with emotional presentation, he leaves audiences with an “impossible magic souvenir” — a shared moment of wonder they carry with them.
Charles and Tada
Charles and Tada are professional magicians from Thailand who have worked on corporate events throughout Asia, winning over audiences with a unique blend of talent, chemistry and sheer hilarity. They are just their silly selves on stage, so their magic show naturally became a comedy magic show—an irresistible combination that continues to captivate crowds everywhere. Together, Charles and Tada have become known for their comedic videos on Facebook and YouTube with millions of views! Charles has performed over 1,000 shows worldwide, and his comedy magic show ‘Here Comes the Secret’ has been performed in sold out theatres all across Asia. An online sensation only matched by his live performances, he is the crazy and comedic one. Tada, has shown his talents all over Asia since the age of 12. Specialising in close up magic and mentalism, he is the serious and mysterious one. These two amazing talents joined forces in 2015, delighting audience members of all ages and presenting shows that combine every style of magic possible.
Mark Raven Garon
With exceptional talent and captivating performances, Mark Raven Garon has become one of the most sought-after magicians for birthday parties in Manila, Philippines entertaining audience with his visual magic and engaging animal interactions on stage. His skill has earned him major accolades, including the Golden Medalist award at the Vietnam International Magicfest (VIMF), a testament to his showmanship and mastery. He also received the Personal Choice Award from Tony Hassini, President of the International Magicians Society, and secured 2nd Runner-up in the Thailand Magic Competition, proving his ability to impress on the international stage. Mark’s magic has been featured on notable platforms such as “Wow Very Good Live!” on GMA 7, “Runit Decks: The LIKHA Ep 10 ‘The Raven’”, Radyo Singko 92.3 News FM, and even an online live talk with Franz Harary from Las Vegas. These appearances highlight Mark’s growing reputation as one of the Philippines’ most in-demand magicians.
The Sacred Riana
The Sacred Riana, born Marie Antoinette Riana Graharani, is one of Indonesia’s most iconic horror-genre illusionists whose chilling rise began on The Next Mentalist, instantly captivating the nation with her eerie silence and unsettling stage presence. Known for her unmistakable look—a long-sleeve white blouse, red dress, long white socks, and thick dark hair covering half her face—Riana has since become a global phenomenon, winning Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 and later stunning international audiences as an America’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist. Her performances, often described as living nightmares, have earned her the reputation of a grand illusionist who is truly not for the faint-hearted. Every gesture, every slow head tilt, and every supernatural twist in her acts keeps audiences spellbound. With millions of views across Facebook and YouTube, her haunting illusions continue to mesmerise, terrify, and push the boundaries of what stage magic can be.
Priscilla Khong
Priscilla Khong’s career in the performing arts spans an impressive 25 years and continues to flourish. A natural Singaporean creative from the very beginning, she launched her journey as a magician and illusionist, performing in a show she helped conceptualise—an early sign of her flair for both artistry and innovation. Co-starring alongside her father, Lawrence, she toured the world on the highly acclaimed Magic of Love production from 2001 to 2006, gracing some of the most prestigious theatre venues and captivating audiences across the world. Inheriting her father’s deep passion for magic and theatre, Priscilla further honed her craft under some of the greatest grandmasters of magic, including The Great Tomsoni, Jeff McBride, Haruo Shimada and Jonathan Pendragon. Her dedication and mastery eventually earned her a historic milestone: Priscilla became the first in Asia to be named Female Magician of the Year, an honour conferred by the International Magicians Society in 2010—widely regarded as the Oscars of the magic world.
JC Yeo
JC Yeo is an international professional magician and illusionist from Malaysia whose remarkable journey in the world of magic began at the age of 15, under the guidance of magicians from all over the world. Driven by an unwavering passion and a relentless work ethic, he dedicated himself to mastering the art of magic, striving to become not just a skilled performer but an extraordinary entertainer. Through years of perseverance, strong beliefs, and countless hours of practice, JC Yeo successfully emerged as one of the most promising magicians in Malaysia. His talent soon gained international recognition, as in 2011 he was crowned Champion at the Guangzhou International Magic Competition, and in 2012, he achieved the extraordinary feat of winning three consecutive championships with his signature dove act. With his creativity, innovative illusions, and flawless technique, JC Yeo has established himself as one of the few renowned new-generation magical entertainers in Asia, captivating audiences across the globe.