College of Magic NPO

Established with the aim of providing much-needed performance arts training for aspirant entertainers from throughout Cape Town?s community. Many young people were desperate to learn the art of magic, but access to training was very difficult – few experts were prepared to teach and the availability of the necessary resources was scarce. From 34 students in 1980, the College of Magic grown into a bustling organisation that today sees more than 160 students active in a variety of programmes.

It aims to build these individuals? self-confidence and self-esteem, improve co-ordination, develop valuable performing and technical skills and job potential as well as to nurture leadership potential and excellent life-skills. The College of Magic is committed to uplifting and helping the many marginalised members of society including the poor, the aged, abused children, the disabled and the illiterate and charitable organisations - including hospitals, homes and other institutions, through performances presented by its students, which form part of the College?s outreach programme. Organisations wishing to secure charity performances approach the College of Magic, and it does not charge for shows of this nature.

From the outset, it became apparent that the unique education offered by the College provided valuable benefits to the holistic development of young people. This was recently highlighted in an external evaluation undertaken by Dr Jean Baxen of the University of Cape Town. The work of the College of Magic has received local and global attention and accolades, and is highly regarded both in South Africa and abroad.