Jiangsu TV and the Spring Festival Gala
I was invited to perform on Jiangsu TV, one of China’s largest television networks, as part of their Spring Festival Gala.
Crafting a custom magic show
Arriving to Beijing ahead of time gave us the opportunity discuss the visions of my team and the TV producers. We freshened up everything, starting from specially tailored costumes to stage props. Besides building the choreography and working out timing, I was sewing and gluing in my room every night. When I’m in Beijing, I always receive the most glamorous hotel suits, but I have never have time to fully enjoy them! 😭
A surprise guest on stage
I performed the new variation of a highlight of my act. This followed by spectacular, large-scale illusions and finally we made someone special magically appear! It was a treat to work with Mr Yang Hongji (杨洪基), China’s most celebrated baritones. You might remember seeing us perform at the popular “大魔术师” aka the Great Magician TV series. (I had no idea how popular this Chinese TV show was until people recognized me in America, which was very sweet and surprising!)
Singing live with a celebrated baritone
This wasn’t the first time singing with Mr Yang (杨洪基), but it was my first time singing “Practice Book for Youth” (青春修煉手冊) by the TFBOYS. I made an English translation of the song. (Yeah, English is my second language, remember?) Besides all the pre-show preparations, we also practiced singing the song. During the actual TV show Mr Yang (杨洪基) were singing Chinese, and I sang half Chinese, half English of the song.
An unexpected moment on stage
After our duet, the hosts, Xiao Yang (肖央) from Chopstick Brothers (筷子兄弟) and the breathtaking Wang Jue (王珏) joined us on stage and challenged us to sing the popular Chopstick Brothers song, Little Apple (小苹果) together. This is a theme song of the movie, Old Boys: The Way of the Dragon (老男孩猛龙过江). The Chopstick Brothers has received the Best International Song Award at the 2014 AMAs (American Music Awards).
Below is a little sneak peek video of our behind-the-scenes journey. We may be very silly here, but laughter is the best way to get through long hours of work and preparation.
Without my team, I wouldn’t be able to accomplish this project. They were the ones making me look good on stage. They came 6am in the rehearsal studio every morning and tolerated my meticulous self that likes to practice for long hours without a break, so a very big thank you for that!
Also note my partner in crime, Mr Yang who—regardless of his age—pushes through any physical challenge to make magic happen. Just like on “大魔术师” aka the Great Magician TV series. He is super pro and I love him dearly.
And of course, the entire crew—on and off screen—who always make me feel welcome in China. I look forward to returning. 🙏