David Kwong


David Kwong is a magician, puzzle creator, writer, and producer.
Kwong is known for creating illusions and puzzles for film and television and for functioning as a producer and consultant in the field. He produced Deception, ABC's action crime drama about a magician that joins the FBI. Other productions that Kwong has been involved with include Now You See Me, NBC's Blindspot, The Magnificent Seven, , and The Imitation Game. Kwong also frequently contributes to the New York Times crossword puzzle along with crossword puzzle editor Will Shortz.
Kwong graduated from Harvard University in 2002. Kwong is a native of Rochester, New York, where both of his parents are professors at the University of Rochester.

Public Speaking

Kwong has given several TED Talks and regularly speaks on the principles of illusion. His main stage TED Talk on magic and puzzles was coordinated with hiding a secret message in the New York Times crossword puzzle. In 2017, he wrote the book Spellbound: Seven Principles of Illusion to Captivate Audiences and Unlock the Secrets of Success.

Theater

In January 2019, Kwong debuted The Enigmatist at the High Line Hotel in New York City. Presented by Greg Berlanti and Robbie Rogers, The Enigmatist is an immersive evening of puzzles, cryptology and illusions. The Enigmatist will make its West Coast debut in May 2020 at the Geffen Playhouse.