At only 28, Megan Swann is the first female president of The Magic Circle since its creation 116 years ago. She specialises in magic that educates others on climate change.
The magic industry has just undergone a shift in leadership, at least in the UK.
The Magic Circle, a prestigious British organisation that promotes and advances the practice of magic, has appointed its first female president since it began in 1905, Megan Swann. She is also the youngest president ever, taking up the position at only 28-years-old.
Until 1991, The Magician’s Circle maintained a rule that women were not allowed to join in any way, shape or form. The appointment of a new female leader is evidence to suggest that many people’s perceptions of magicians are somewhat outdated and that the industry is evolving.
Speaking to Radio 1 Newsbeat, Megan agreed. ‘Many [think] of the male magician in a top hat and tails, pulling out rabbits,’ though this perception of modern magic is largely incorrect. She added that renewed interest in the art can be found with Gen Zers, saying she’d ‘noticed a real growth in [the amount of] younger members.’
Swann is an environmentalist magician who uses her skills to teach others about the effects and impact of climate change. Certainly sounds up our street, that’s for sure.
‘I teach people about environmental issues and how we can help through magic tricks,’ Swann explained to the BBC. Check out her video below where she uses string to explain species extinction.