Magic happens at the crossroad of dreams and reality in a three-dimensional world according to Master Magician Mitch Harwood, aka Mysto the Magi. He got hooked as a child, performing sleight of hand tricks for family and friends, later taking his show all over the country, from Washington Square to Bourbon Street, intimate clubs, street corners and private parties for billionaires.
With a career spanning over two decades, Harwood’s magic isn’t just about illusion but an exploration into what makes the impossible feel real. “The house of magic has many rooms; it’s not just sleight of hand or mere trickery.” Each performance is a portal to a novel experience, whether it be an esoteric mystery, or a grand illusion.
Emphasizing the elusive nature of his art, in contrast to the fleeting digital spectacles that dominate today’s entertainment landscape, Harwood crafts his shows to be palpable in three dimensions. “Our show is just a rollicking good time,” – pushing back against the trend of experiencing magic through a screen. Harwood insists on a tangible interaction, urging his audience to put away the phones and be in the moment.
Harwood’s philosophy of magic parallels his life’s views: “Dreams are the place where magic and reality meet. If you believe in magic, anything is possible.” This belief is not only a cornerstone of his performances, but also a metaphor for life’s limitless possibilities.
Despite the surge of magic on social media platforms, where tricks often get reduced to quick visual snacks, Harwood advocates for the live experience. “Magic is bigger than ever,” crediting platforms like TikTok and Instagram for increasing visibility. “However while videos get thousands of views, the real magic happens on stage, before a live audience, where the energy of the crowd transforms the performance into something special.”
This blend of old-school charm and modern sensibility sets Harwood’s shows apart. His performances are reminiscent of the classic magic shows of the ‘40s and ‘50s. Influences like Lucille Ball, Abbott and Costello, and even Bugs Bunny seep into his acts, adding a layer of comedic relief that complements the mystique of his magic. In a world ruled by digital experiences, the true magic still happens live, in front of an awe-struck crowd, where reality and dreams meet.