Magic Day
OtherWhat Is Magic Day?
December 3rd is "Magic Day" in Japan. The date comes from the magician's cue "one, two, three" -- 1, 2, 3 -- and the day was established in 1990 by the Japan Magicians Association. Its purpose is to spread appreciation for the art of magic.
A Date Built from a Magician's Cue
We watch magic knowing perfectly well there is a trick, and watch anyway. Even the way this date was chosen borrows the light touch of a performer's countdown.
- Origin of the date: the magician's call of "one (1), two (2), three (3)"
- Established by: the Japan Magicians Association
- Year established: 1990
- Purpose: to make the appeal of magic more widely known
Three Japanese Words for the Same Art
Japanese has several words for this craft. "Kijutsu" tends to appear in association names and competitions, while "tejina" and "magic" are the everyday terms. The Japan Magicians Association operates as a body of performers, staging shows and promoting the art. Magic is also a staple of party entertainment, so learning one routine during year-end party season may come in handy.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Learn one simple trick with coins or playing cards
- Watch magic videos and enjoy guessing at the method
- Rehearse a short routine for a year-end party
- Perform what you have learned for family or children
On the Count of Three, the Ordinary Shifts
Magic creates the moment when what is obviously true turns over. December 3rd is a day to say "one, two, three" yourself.