The 24th FISM World Championships of Magic Opens in Beijing

The International Federation of Magic Societies, or FISM, is an international body that brings together the world's leading magicians. The 24th FISM World Championships of Magic, considered the Olympics of the magic world, kicks off today in Beijing. It's the first time China has held such a grand – and magical – event. He Fei has more.

The 24th FISM World Championships of Magic kicks off on Sunday with a grand opening show. The championship will last until July 31, bringing more than 2,000 magicians from around the world.

It is the first time China has hosted such an event, and the first time the FISM world championship has been held in a developing country. Lin Jian, the secretary general of the event's organizing committee, said it's a good opportunity for the Chinese magic circle to learn from the world.

"We've put a lot of effort into bidding to host the World Championship of Magic. It is a great opportunity for boosting and developing magic in China. Our magicians have been preparing for the competition for over two years. They've created many new magic programs featuring Chinese elements. I believe the event will further promote and inspire the development of magic in the country."

Magic has a long history in China. Actually, China is one of the three countries that created the magic art form. However, during periods of turbulence, China's magic has fallen behind on the international scene. Along with the opening-up policy, many Chinese magicians went abroad to learn from the rest of the world and many foreign masters have come to perform or give lectures in China.

The 2009 Spring Festival Gala boosted magician Liu Qian's popularity and triggered a national magic fever. Lin Jian is happy to see this trend.

"Now the public has shown more interest in magic. Lots of people love to see magic shows and even many children would like to learn magic skills. I also heard that some shops selling magic equipment have increased their trade. In Beijing, a group of college students have set up a magic alliance. That's important for the development of the magic arts in China. As long as the number of magicians is growing, our performing and skill levels will be improved."

Several Chinese magicians enrolled in the championship.

HF, CRI NEWS