Hubert Burzynski – studies applied computer science at our Faculty. He is a software developer by profession. In his free time, he leads the volleyball section at Wrocław University of Science and Technology, and is also... a professional illusionist. Our student was the guest of the #JestemzPWr (I am from WUST) series.

My name is Hubert Burzynski and I have been interested in the art of illusion since childhood – says the official website of our student. Applied computer science, which he studies, and his work as a software developer do not prevent him from pursuing his passion for magic. For many years, he has been performing for children and adults, trying to make his illusions unique and unforgettable. How does he do that? It's a secret, of course.

„A magician never reveals his secrets. When I was in secondary school, a friend impressed me with a spectacular card trick. He told me to choose a card and put it back in the deck. First it would pop out of the deck itself, and then suddenly the whole deck was made up of the same cards. Of course, my friend wouldn't tell me how he did it, so I started to figure it out myself. This is how my adventure with magic began" – said the hero in an interview for the series #JestemzPWr.

At the same time, Hubert developed his interest in computer science, configuring e.g. servers in the popular Minecraft game, creating his own Internet fora or managing a server in Counter Strike. As he claims, it is thanks to these experiences that he can now find his place in the world of computer science. He does not see a connection between his two passions and he believes that computer science is largely separate from the art of illusion.

Already in high school, after I had performed in front of my family and friends, my parents suggested that I should put an advertisement on the Internet. And in fact people started to call. Most of my jobs were events for children: birthdays, festivals, but also weddings or company events. Currently, I have been performing for 7 years and running my own business. Once I came to a wedding too early… a year too early! The young couple organised everything well in advance – said the magician.

Hubert learns new illusions by repeatedly observing the magic performed by other committed masters of the craft. Watching them frame by frame allows you to notice the moment when magic happens. It is a kind of puzzle solving. By understanding the specific character of this world you change your perspective on magic. It ceases to be surprising, and draws attention to the way it is made.

Once you enter the world of magic, you give up on the joy of being surprised. Little surprises a magician. Rather, you appreciate the craftsmanship and technique. For several years I learned new tricks and developed my regular program. My greatest fun is to make things disappear. The biggest thing I 'disappeared' was a bottle of wine," – continued the magician.

„The hardest trick I've mastered is called 'Russian Roulette'. Many people may remember it from a mishap on breakfast television. It involves hiding a long nail in one of four paper bags, placed vertically. The bags are crushed by hand so that only the one with the nail is left at the end. I perform it frequently, but I would definitely not use the spectator’s hand.”

„I like performing in front of slightly older children, around 9 years old. My program seems most amazing to them, and I think they really like me. Once, a boy I was performing with invited me to another birthday party, but as a friend – a guest. I couldn't accept the invitation then, but it felt nice" – he concluded his episode in the series #JestemzPWr.

When he is not busy with magic and programming, Hubert Burzynski charms and programs the game of his team, acting as the captain of the volleyball section at Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Together with the team, he is going to the semi-finals of the Polish Championships this week.