Conjuror of the year adds fourth date to meet demand from Hong Kong fans

Taiwanese conjuror Lu Chen, who has just been crowned magician of the year by the Academy of Magical Arts in Hollywood, has added a fourth show to the Hong Kong leg of his world tour.

'I've never performed in Hong Kong before so I'm flattered about the box office numbers,' he said. 'I can't reveal too many secrets, but they will be different from the previous 100 shows in Taiwan and mainland China.'

The magician, whose popularity was given a boost by his 2009 performance for CCTV's Spring Festival Gala, was awarded his new title last week.

'It's a huge encouragement for me, as the other recipients have all been world-class performers. I hoped to get it before I turned 50, and now I've got it 14 years earlier,' said the 36-year-old, who began learning tricks at the tender age of seven.

Lu said he would like to start a professional academy to promote the magical arts and educate youngsters.

'I hope to set up the academy in five years' time. I'm too busy to take in any apprentices now, but I hope I'll have some time to teach at the school and also hand-pick the teaching staff.'