Interview: Majika, afro futurist and Black Panther with Africa’s Greatest Illusionists

Africa’s Greatest Illusionists will be delivering dazzling illusions at Majika in Cape Town, at Artscape on June 7 and 8, 2025. There are four shows only in this magic spectacle, presented by the College of Magic (COM) and featuring young and talented professionals who are all graduates of the famous COM. Check out the show teaser and get a sense of the awesomeness and vision of the show. To get a sneak peek at the show, we spoke to the illusionists and to Chad Findlay, who is directing the show. Findlay says: “Think afro-futurist and Black Panther in concept … Majika doesn’t just borrow from global illusion — it proudly stands on African soil, rooted in the richness of our cultural storytelling.”

TheCapeRobyn: Chad Findlay, is there a story or conceptual arc underpinning Majika?

Chad Findlay: Majika is so much more than a magic show — it’s a magical journey. At its core, the show celebrates wonder, imagination, and the transformative power of magic. We’ve woven a conceptual arc that taps into themes of magical discovery. While it’s not driven by traditional narration, it’s deeply choreographed with lighting, music, and staging that guide the audience through a thematic experience — from the roots of magic to its thrilling modern evolution. Think afro-futurist and Black Panther in concept.

TCR: Chad, what is the centrepiece? Something not yet seen in South Africa?

CF: Without giving too much away — Majika features illusions on a scale very rarely seen in South Africa. We’ve pushed the boundaries with a centrepiece that combines classic escape magic with a high-tech twist. It’s not just about tricks; it’s about creating a sensory experience that makes audiences question reality. Some of what we’re presenting has never been staged like this on the African continent.

TCR: How are you bringing an African magic aesthetic/approach to the show?

CF: This is something we’re deeply passionate about. Majika doesn’t just borrow from global illusion — it proudly stands on African soil, rooted in the richness of our cultural storytelling. From the rhythm of the music to the symbolism in our set and costume design, the show reflects the spirit and vibrance of Cape Town and the broader African creative landscape. We honour our heritage while pushing magic into bold new territory — and that’s what sets Majika apart.

TCR: Your thoughts on the young cohort of magicians in this show — and the unique role of the College of Magic?

CF:  It’s genuinely inspiring to see this dynamic new generation of magicians who have risen through the College of Magic’s training programme. Mawonga Gayiya, Marcel Pretorius and Olwethu Dyantyi, as well as our other graduate performers and special guests are all world-class talents, not just because of what they can do on stage, but because of the journey they’ve taken. The College isn’t just a school. It is a centre of creativity, mentorship, and resilience. These performers didn’t learn magic through YouTube — they trained with discipline, heart, and real-world performance opportunities. Without that unique, hands-on ecosystem, we wouldn’t have this extraordinary cohort. This show is a celebration of them and thousands of other youngsters that have been through College of Magic training and of what’s possible when young people are given the space to dream big and work hard.

TCR: Brendon Peel, you have been in Las Vegas, performing on the Penn and Teller show after winning a prize on the TV show ‘Fool Us’. It has been a while since we have seen you on stage in Cape Town? Can you tell us about Fool Us and can you give us insights into what you will be presenting at Majika? Will you be fooling us?

Brendon Peel: Wow, what an incredible journey it’s been. Fool Us was truly a life-changing experience. Standing on that iconic Las Vegas stage, performing for legends like Penn & Teller, and then actually managing to fool them — I still pinch myself! It was a huge honour, and I feel so blessed that the magic we created resonated with them and with audiences around the world.

As for Cape Town — I’ve missed you. There’s nothing quite like performing for a home crowd. At Majika, I’m bringing some brand-new miracles to the stage, including a few surprises I’ve been perfecting since my time in Vegas. Without giving too much away… let’s just say I might have a few tricks up my sleeve to keep you guessing. More than anything, I just feel incredibly grateful to be back, sharing what I love with all of you. I can’t wait to reconnect, astonish, and maybe — just maybe — fool you too.

TCR: Olwethu Dyantyi, you have won heaps of awards and performed around the world from the Olympics of Magic to performances in Italy, Las Vegas, England, Croatia and China. Has your craft been influenced by what you have encountered abroad?  Can you give us insights into what you will be doing at Majika?

Olwethu Dyantyi: Traveling and performing around the world has definitely shaped the way I approach magic. Every country brings something different—whether it’s the energy of the audience, the style of performance, or just the way people experience wonder. Being part of events like the Olympics of Magic, and performing in places like Italy, Las Vegas, Croatia, and China, has opened my eyes to how universal magic really is. It’s helped me grow, not just as a performer, but as a person too.

At Majika, I’ll be performing some big illusions—things that are visual, surprising and exciting. It’s a show full of wonder, and I’m really looking forward to being part of it and sharing the magic with everyone.

TCR: Mawonga Gayiya, as an award winning magician you have travelled extensively. Has your craft been influenced by what you have encountered abroad?  Can you give us insights into what you will be doing at Majika?

Mawonga Gayiya: My style of magic has been shaped by international experiences, but more importantly, by the incredible individuals I’ve encountered outside the world of magic. They’ve helped me develop a unique approach that reflects my personality—finding humour in everyday moments and seamlessly blending it with the art of magic.

The experience is guaranteed to amaze—using personal items from the audience to achieve the impossible, all while creating an atmosphere filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

❇ The Majika illusion show will be on at Artscape Cape Town on June 7 and 8, 2025. Poster supplied.