With less than two weeks to go before the Spring Festival gala night, rehearsals are taking place at CCTV's main studio. Young magician Liu Qian, who earned superstar status for his unbelievable performance at last year's gala, will perform again this year, and he reveals this time his magic show will be more stunning.

Taiwan magician Liu Qian brought close-up magic onto the Spring Festival Gala stage last year. Eggs, rings, these daily household items, with which Liu conjures up mind-boggling magic shows.

Liu Qian, magician, said, In the past, the audience sees the magician standing in a faraway place, using a lot of splendid props. Nowadays, I think there should be some changes.

Young magician Liu Qian

Liu Qian and the directing crew of the magic section are considering different ways that Liu will perform his magic. They will decide which plan will be finally used, based on audience reaction to rehearsals.

Jin Qiu, director of magic & acrobatic section, said, "Liu has prepared three plans for his show. I think all of them are miraculous, even after I've watched them many times. So I think the audience will think so too, when they first see it."

Liu says in one plan he will not even use his hands. He will also wield his magic with audience members standing around him. Liu's magic is one of the most anticipated shows during the night.

There are many other highlights to this year's gala though. including: new gags from the Zhao Benshan comic show, mainland pop queen Faye Wong's comeback, the reunion of pop boy band "Little Tiger Trio". One thing is for sure, the surprises will not be unveiled until Spring Festival eve, on Saturday next week.