Cosentino, the Australian master of illusion and escapology, will perform in New Zealand this November and December, promising an experience that blends the fantastical with the breathtakingly real.
A self-described illusionist, Cosentino – or Cos as he introduced himself to the Herald’s Emma Gleason – elaborates on the distinction between magic and illusion: “A magician does more small kind of hand magic. An illusionist would usually be on stage ... there’s dancing, there’s escapes.”
![Cosentino displays his sleight-of-hand mastery on the Herald's Lifestyle and Entertainment Deputy Editor Emma Gleason.](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/4D4OF4XA5JCELKFR3I2HPPJIXE.png?auth=9fae6a21375d33062544da90e2e34468708917c08818d3fae44bb8de78df9962&width=16&height=11&quality=70&smart=true)
His performances, which often appear as mind-reading feats, are meticulously crafted illusions designed to leave audiences questioning their perception of reality.
What began as a hobby and a part-time job during his school years eventually blossomed into a full-fledged career – but not as quickly as you might think. After a year at university, a cruise ship contract marked the beginning of his professional journey and over 15 years, he diligently built his reputation.