Dominik Messiaen, known internationally as 'The Charming Thief', is a Belgian magician, pickpocket, hypnotist and speaker from Essen (Antwerp). Thanks to his education he performs in four languages: Dutch, English, French and German.
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From linguist to pickpocket
Dominik was intrigued by brain illusions and magic as a child. After completing his master's degree in applied linguistics he began his career as an illusionist and specialised in pickpocketing and hypnosis.
Around the age of 35, encouraged by Luc Apers, he turned to pickpocketing and followed a masterclass in the United Kingdom alongside pickpocket entertainers from around the world. In America and Europe together there are at most ten professional pickpockets who present it as entertainment.
Specialities
At corporate parties, receptions and dinners he steals watches, wallets, smartphones and even ties unnoticed. He also brings close-up magic at the table, stage hypnosis and 'phone hacking' as spectacle.
As a keynote speaker he demonstrates in an energetic, humorous way how the subconscious brain works, gives tips for persuasive communication and teaches participants to guard themselves against influence.
On television and decorated
The Charming Thief was a guest on several talk shows: for 'On n'est pas des pigeons' (RTBF) he showed how pickpockets operate, on 'Jonas & Van Geel' (VTM) he demonstrated pickpocketing with Axel Daeseleire, and 'Gert Late Night' (VIER) invited him after people had been robbed at festivals.
In 2023 he received the Eventplanner Certificate of Excellence for the fourth year in a row, with an average score of 9.7/10. Behind his acts now lies 25 years of professional experience.
Dominik Messiaen proved that charm and dexterity together make an irresistible show. You will recognise that same combination of craftsmanship and disarming interaction in the work of Sudesh Roman.