Mr. Bottle’s fascination with magic began in childhood, inspired by his father's enchanting illusions. Once a shy boy, too afraid to speak at school, his father gave him a special bottle. Performing a magic trick with it, his father said, “Open the bottle, and you will become a courageous boy.” From then on, the boy opened the bottle every morning, feeling a surge of bravery and gradually making more friends.
Years later, he discovered that the bottle was actually empty and held no real magic. So why did he become so confident and courageous? It was because he believed in himself. This newfound self-belief transformed him into Mr. Bottle, the magician who now leads us on this Balestier tour. He embodies the belief that anything is possible if you have faith in yourself.
These early experiences ignited his determination to become a magician and share the magic that once changed his life, empowering others—especially kids—with the same sense of wonder and self-belief.
Learning about magic was challenging for Mr. Bottle. In the days before the internet, resources were scarce, and the only magic he could experience was on TV. He vividly recalls recording David Copperfield’s performances to study the tricks repeatedly.
As a kid, he found a magic book in Chinese. Struggling with some characters, he asked his mother to help him understand the content. He then created magic props from anything he could find around him and learned a matchbox trick.
Later, during secondary school, he said, “I’m not sure if it was because of me, but I wrote to the school library to have more magic books in their collection.” He was happy to see more books added, which fed his curiosity and knowledge. “I didn’t come from a well-to-do family, so I saved every cent. Despite this, I copied word for word and picture for picture from the books to remember the magic tricks after returning them.”
However, it takes a lot of perseverance to stay true to your passion and believe in yourself. More importantly, it requires significant mental effort to develop your passion into a viable skillset. Kien Meng, exemplifies this dedication.
“My parents thought magic would be better as a part-time hobby, worried it wouldn’t be a viable career. I was determined and focused all my energy on making it work, so I went full-time,” Kien Meng shared. This dedication shapes the core values and philosophy of our company. We aim to empower children through our activities, not just as party planners but as event creators who instill values and make a positive impact.
You’ve heard the story of Mr. Bottle—now experience Balestier like never before with him, the first magician to lead a walking tour in this historic district. Combining his extensive magic experience with a passion for storytelling, Kien Meng will guide you through Balestier’s hidden gems and historical landmarks. As you explore, he’ll weave enchanting tales and share magical insights, bringing history to life in a truly unique way. Whether you’re with your kids or exploring solo, you’ll find the experience truly magical!
Mr. Bottle launched a book titled Magic in a Bottle: A Storybook Adventure, which tells the story of a boy who discovers a mysterious scribble under his desk. He embarks on an adventure with his newfound friend to uncover its meaning, featuring some of the monuments you will be able to see in person during the tour.
Over the years Kien studied psychology, theatre, and entrepreneurship but it is magic that continues to provide the most in the way of an education. He uses magic to empower children to do amazing things; to let them believe that “Nothing is Impossible” if they believe in yourself!s magic to empower children to do amazing things; to let them believe that “Nothing is Impossible” if they believe in yourself!
Narrated by Charmaine Leung, this tour explores her childhood in Singapore's red-light district and her mother’s brothel, shedding light on the lives of marginalized women.
Candles bloom, hearts make room, lenses zoom — illuminating lives, one candle at a time.
Balestier’s tales, puzzles, and magic with Mr. Bottle—an eclectic adventure to enchant all.
In a timeless traditional home, a young family steams joy with Grandma's treat.
