Grand illusions, transformations, a disappearing banana, multiplying flowers, mentalism exercises, linking rings and a dancing scarf were among the magic feats performed at the first annual Evening of Magic last month benefiting the local Boys and Girls Club.
More than 300 attendees helped bring in about $3,000 for the club. The show at the Boys and Girls Club in Newhall was put on by the International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM) of the Santa Clarita Valley. The IBM ring is made up of residents from Palmdale, the San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita.
“I don’t recall seeing a show like this in our community,” said Jim Ventress, chief professional officer for the club and emcee for the evening, “It truly was a magical evening in Santa Clarita.”
Magicians in the show ranged from 12-year-old Thomas Ellery, who performed onstage for the first time to professionals with decades of experience.
“It was an excellent family event,” said Valencia resident Denise Brown, who described her 10-year-old daughter as mesmerized with the program, “My daughter thought it was the coolest thing ever. She loved the kid magician and pointed out that he was only two years older than her.” Seven performers set up separate stations and presented a variety of tricks using rubber bands, rope, sponge balls, a coloring book, currency, cards and other props, as attendees roamed the room to watch.