NYC Gazette

In a recent workshop at the Juilliard Drama Division, third-year students had the opportunity to delve into the world of magic and illusions under the guidance of theater artist and illusion designer Steve Cuiffo. Cuiffo, known for his work in various theatrical productions and as a magic consultant for popular shows, led the students in a multi-week exploration of magic tricks and illusions.

Reflecting on the experience, third-year drama student Leela Bassuk described the moment when Cuiffo was introduced to the class, stating, "So on a cloudy fall morning, my classmates and I arrived in Room 301 and were greeted by our guest artist: illusionist Steve Cuiffo." She highlighted the initial reactions of the students, noting the excitement and wonder that filled the room as Cuiffo demonstrated his skills, leaving them eager for more.

During the workshop, Cuiffo engaged the students by asking them to reflect on the meaning of magic, prompting them to reconnect with the whimsy and wonder of their childhood experiences. As the workshop progressed, Cuiffo shared the secrets of close-up magic with the students, teaching them fundamental techniques using everyday objects like rubber bands, coins, and playing cards.

The students were not only taught the physical techniques of the tricks but were also encouraged to incorporate improvised narratives into their performances. Bassuk shared the transformation she observed in her peers, noting, "Every time we practiced a trick, we grew more confident." The workshop served as a platform for the students to showcase their storytelling abilities and merge the worlds of magic and acting.

Through Cuiffo's guidance and expertise, the students at Juilliard were able to explore the parallels between magic and acting, recognizing the importance of physical mastery and compelling narratives in both art forms. The workshop not only equipped the students with new skills but also ignited a sense of confidence and playfulness in their performances, creating moments of magic on and off the stage.

As the students continued to practice and perfect their newly acquired tricks, they found themselves embracing the unexpected and wonderful moments that arise in performance, echoing the sentiment that "Something magical!" can indeed happen when artistry and skill converge.

Leela Bassuk's reflection on the workshop encapsulates the transformative journey that the students undertook in exploring the realms of magic and acting, highlighting the profound impact of learning illusion techniques under Cuiffo's guidance.