On October 28th, Champions in the Workplace sponsored an afternoon magic show by Ken McCreedy for seniors in St. Catharines at the Gibson Road Older Adults Centre. Over 100 people enjoyed a full show of classic magic by a true professional. Ken was perfect - funny, colourful and very entertaining. Several members of our Fonthill Magic Circle also attended to support our service to senior citizens in St. Catharines. The Community Centre promoted the show and provided the venue - a beautiful hall with a well-equipped stage.
— John Smithman
Thank you John for guest posting at Canada's Magic!
[As an aside, we encourage you to go and see a show at this fabulous 500 seat
theatre. It's approximately 25 minutes west of Toronto's western
border. The facilities are modern and spacious. On the lower
level, it appears that all seats have amazing sight lines. (We didn't
venture up to the balcony.) The seats are a little bit wider than
standard theatre seats, which makes them very comfortable! Parking is free and
plentiful.]
[Additionally, this is the first magic show we've been
to where there's been an ASL interpreter available. The interpreter was
easily seen and unobtrusive. They did not distract from the show.
There appeared to be quite a few folks in the audience fluent in sign
language. I'm sure the service was well appreciated!]
Here are some random thoughts that came to mind while watching Ted and Marion share some
fascinating stories about their current home and the individuals who had
previously lived there:
The tone of the show was nicely set with a carefully curated period piece
soundtrack which included "All That Jazz," "It Don't Mean a Thing," and
Glenn Miller ("In the Mood" we think.)
The show was a BRAND NEW SHOW with very little overlap with their previous
show "Outerbridge Clockwork Mysteries." (Sadly there was no way to work the disco ball jacket that Marion
painstakingly created for Ted, into the new show.)
We were tremendously lucky to be at a show where illusionist technician
Shenna Dunn came out of retirement! Her grace and talent at the beginning
of the show made for a delightful opener!
This show is extraordinarily creatively satisfying. It is very clear that a lot of
time and thought has been put into tying all of the visuals into the theme
of the show. Just about every item on stage looked like it was part of an
historical play. The smallest details were considered; from the
shape of the centre spot, to the use of golf clubs in lieu of a typically
used magic prop, and of course the fabulous costumes created by Marion. Well
done Ted and Marion!
This show is a masterclass in organically driven story telling. The premise
of the show is based on historical events. The compelling
narrative is highlighted with creatively re-imagined, and expertly
executed magical effects.
All illusions, big and small, were masterfully performed.
The story telling is equally as important and entertaining as the magic and
illusions.
There is a nice ratio of grand illusion, intimate magic, and mentalism.
Marion has upped her game with fantastically executed magic!
(On top of sharing her superb dance and quick change talents.)
Kudos to Ted and Marion for going out of their way to right some wrongs for previous owners of the Keyhole house!
We counted 14 volunteers. Sitting at the back of the theatre provides little to no protection from being selected as a volunteer!
While this is certainly a family-friendly show, this is NOT a show aimed at
children. There are some mature themes involved. And the wee one
behind us found the "séance" portion of the show a little bit
frightening.
The evening was a marvelous blend of historical story telling, mixed with masterful performances!
Possibly the only magic show based entirely on a slice of Canadian history.
Disclosure: KOP and I were guests at this show. The opinions expressed above are
entirely our own. We did not receive compensation for the writing or the
publishing of this article.
🎩✨ Experience holiday magic with the Enchanted Wonders Magic Show on December 6 at Barrie’s Georgian Theatre! Join Canada’s top magicians for an unforgettable, family-friendly evening filled with jaw-dropping illusions and holiday cheer. 🎄✨
