Magic has plenty of benefits for those practising this artform.
This according to a recent study from Aberystwyth University in Wales, UK, which suggests magicians are less prone to mental disorders. With new beginner’s magic courses starting at the College of Magic in Claremont in February your child can benefit too.
In her study on the benefits of learning the art of magic, local education expert Dr Jean Baxen found “teachers, parents and children reported one of the immediate benefits of involvement in magic is the sense of well-being and the development of a positive self-image.”
This has certainly been the case for several of the college’s more well-known graduates, which include comedians Riaad Moosa, Stuart Taylor and Conrad Koch as well as SA’s Got Talent finalist Olwethu Dyantyi.
College of Magic founder David Gore agreed: “Over more than 40 years we’ve seen first-hand the positive changes that learning the art of magic has had on thousands of students, and it is wonderfully apparent in the success of our graduates. The improvement of the youngsters’ confidence levels and social skills as they progress through our programme is amazing to see, and we cannot wait to share this with our 2024 students.”
In addition to their weekly magical lessons, the new magic learners will also be able to participate in a variety of allied arts, including juggling. A study at the University of Regensburg in Germany found learning to juggle may cause certain areas of one’s brain to grow.
“Simply put, studying magic and its allied arts is good for your children… register them for our courses today!” Gore said.
The College of Magic will be holding a free magic tour and workshop for interested children aged 10 to 17 years, and their parents on Saturday 3 February at 10:30. Booking is essential and can be made by sending an email to info@collegeofmagic.com or calling 021 683 5480.
Course 1 runs at the College of Magic, 215 Imam Haron Road in Claremont every Saturday for six months, with classes at 09:00 and noon. The cost of R3 550 per person includes all course equipment and notes as well as participation in any or all of the allied arts including juggling, puppetry, mime, clowning and drama.
