We are pleased to present an insightful interview with Mr. Kenneth Chan, the FISM Asia Acting General Secretary, shedding light on his journey with FISM.
FISM: What was the first time you went in touch with FISM, and what memory do you have of that moment?
Kenneth Chan: I became aware of FISM at the age of 15. My inaugural FISM experience was at FISM Yokohama in Japan (1997). Prior to FISM, I attended various magic conventions across Asia and Europe, but FISM's grand scale left an indelible mark on me. The abundance of contest acts, lectures, and world-class gala shows, coupled with the opportunity to forge magical friendships, made it an enlightening experience.
FISM: Before becoming FISM Asia General Secretary, was there something in FISM that you wanted to change or improve?
KC: As a competition magician, I've always enjoyed magic competitions and conventions. I never harbored a desire to change anything in FISM; rather, I believed in its natural evolution over time and fashion trends.
FISM: As FISM Asia Secretary, what is the project you are most proud of that you contributed to?
KC: Managing a continental chapter entails hard work, and as General Secretary of FISM Asia Executive Board, I took pride in reorganizing FISM Asia matters. Collaborating with magic masters in Asia, many of whom were my childhood heroes, we made progress in the ACM 2024 selection and preparation.
FISM: In an era where magic is increasingly present online, on TV, in public spaces, and in theaters worldwide, how do you think FISM can adapt to this new reality without compromising its tradition? What are the challenges and opportunities in this adaptation process?
KC: Online and TV magic complement rather than replace traditional environments. While adapting styles to social media platforms is essential, offline performances persist. Magicians must prepare for diverse audiences, leveraging social media and TV to enhance magic's visibility. Every technology comes with pros and cons.
FISM: In your opinion, what is the main obstacle that FISM must overcome to continue growing and thriving in the future? How do you think the organization can successfully address these challenges?
KC: To foster healthy growth, FISM needs more magicians and magic fans. A conducive international show business environment is crucial for magician progress, and FISM could play a role in advancing the magic world in this direction.
FISM: Looking ahead, how do you envision FISM's role in promoting the art of magic globally in the coming years?
KC: FISM will persist in creating high-quality magic competitions, producing expert champions who can shine in the artistic performance world. These champions, along with FISM's positive brand image, will elevate magic's popularity in both artistic and show business realms.
Stay tuned for more magical stories and insights right here on FISM's blog!
