#48. Quinntessential Questions with Priscilla Khong: From Illusion to Impact
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In this episode of The Quinntessential Questions Podcast, Paul Quinn speaks with Priscilla Khong, Executive Director of Gateway Entertainment, Gateway Theatre, and Gateway Arts, whose extraordinary journey from illusionist to impact leader reveals how creativity, courage, and compassion can change lives.
For over 25 years, Priscilla has performed as a professional magician and illusionist, touring internationally and training with some of the world’s greatest masters in Las Vegas. But her greatest act wasn’t on stage, it was behind the scenes, transforming her family’s legacy into a mission-driven arts movement that uses theatre to address mental wellness, empathy, and youth resilience.
Today, Priscilla leads three organisations that combine art, education, and social purpose, producing plays that spark difficult conversations, from suicide prevention to identity and belonging. Her work has touched thousands, including one unforgettable moment when a young man came to see a show and left deciding to live.
Priscilla shares how she found meaning beyond magic, the lessons she learned from working with her father, and why she believes storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for change.
We dive into:
From illusionist to Executive Director: building purpose through art
Using theatre to talk about mental health, empathy, and connection
The show that saved a life, and what it taught her about hope
Leadership, legacy, and working alongside her father, Reverend Lawrence Khong
Creativity as a force for healing and resilience
Turning passion into purpose and art into advocacy
Parenting and finding balance in a purpose-driven life
What theatre can teach us about courage, humanity, and storytelling.
If you’re interested in creativity, leadership, mental wellness, social impact, or the power of art to heal, this episode is for you.
Guest Bio
Priscilla Khong has worked in the performing arts for the last 20 years. She began her career as a magician and illusionist, performing in some of the most prestigious theatre venues in the world. Priscilla is the first in Asia to receive the Elite Diamond Merlin Award as Female Magician of the Year in 2010.
Minutes
(01:44) Introduction
(02:05) Working as a Professional Illusionist
(04:00) Courage to Follow Your Passion
(06:59) Game of Imagination (09:05) Genesis of Theatre Work (10:48) Gateway Arts
(11:56) Mental Health in Singapore (13:29) Power of Theatre
(17:34) Challenges of Live Shows (20:05) Social Impact Through Theatre
(23:17) Young Men & Theatre (24:22) Illusion, Magic & Real Life (26:28) Storytelling & Philosophy (27:41) Planning Process
(29:43) Sensitive Topics
(33:23) Finding Balance as a Young Company
(34:55) Career Journey Over 25 Years
(37:17) Gauging & Measuring Impact
(40:22) Finding Your Inner Creative Person
(42:56) What the Youth Needs (45:27) Advice for Young Theatre Practitioners
(47:31) Plays & Books That Left a Lasting Impact
(53:10) Rapid Fire QuestionsBehind-The-Scenes
