It was announced last week that Cyril Takayama is planning to begin filming a new project in Asia for the AXN tv network. Articles online refer to him working in Singapore for a November tv special, which is apparently the debut of an original series that will take him “to various locations across Asia”.
The Yahoo Singapore article states that the November show will be his “very first TV special made outside Japan”.
Not so! In fact, in addition to the 15 he has done in Japan, Cyril has made two tv specials in Korea. The clip at the top (with former Miss Korea, Honey Lee) is from his first one, in October 2006. The entire show can be found here. The second special aired in September 2007, and is also available on YouTube.
Many segments of the Japan-based specials have been filmed at various locations around Asia. In the second clip, which you can find AFTER THE JUMP, Cyril performs in the V.I.P. Room at the MGM Grand Hotel Macau at the personal request of its co-owner, gambling magnate and property tycoon Pansy Ho.
Cyril continues to explore his many opportunities to break new ground on this continent. We’re looking forward to see where he takes his magic in the new series.
Neil Henley is a magic enthusiast and occasional performer who still hasn’t given up his day job. He is based near Tokyo, Japan, and is responsible for the Japanjin blog.