This summer science and physics become mere playthings as the world of magic – with all its baroque and buoyant charm – comes to City Museum.

In Melbourne magic really DOES happen: for generations our theatres have been caked in magic dust, our waterways choked with glitter, and our eyes aglow with the sparkle of mischief. Magic, it seems, is in our blood, and this enchanted city has radiated with wonder and possibility since its streets were first paved with gold.

The wizards who captivated the 1850s goldfields opened the floodgates to a century and a half of magical superstars: Howard Thurston, Chung Ling Soo, Dante and the irrepressible Harry Houdini. Later, Melbourne was awash with home grown wizardry with the likes of The Great Levante, Tommy Parer and ‘Bernard the Magician’ taking the stage.

Hocus Pocus assembles the souvenirs of sorcery with twists at every turn. Authentic tools of the magician’s trade coalesce with artefacts, artworks, and moving image, forming an extraordinary brigade of wonderment. With a plot as grand as the wildest fairytale Hocus Pocus is a kaleidoscopic romp through the magical melting pot of Melbourne.

Curator: Simon Gregg
Venue: Seasonal Exhibition Gallery

To read more click here.
To tour the exhibition photo gallery click here. (COMING SOON)

HOCUS POCUS
Magic, Mystery & Illusion in Melbourne
is accompanied by a fully illustrated 56-page catalogue, available from City Museum Shop

RRP $15.00

Mail order and enquiries: T (03) 9651 2233

Exhibition Partner