Mike D’Urzo: Turning teen obsession into magical career

From York Region:

Sometimes, Mike D’Urzo wonders where he’d be if he hadn’t gone to Canada’s Wonderland that day back in 1998 as a 15-year-old kid looking for fun on a summer afternoon.

What if he hadn’t happened upon that booth where they sold magic kits?

Read more.

Baltimore: Bill Abbott lecture and workshop

From Denny & Lee Magic Studio newsletter:

June 8:
The Pack Smart Play Anywhere Lecture - by Bill Abbott

"I am completely obsessive when it comes to the Pack Smart Play Anywhere lifestyle. The basic philosophy is rooted in the idea that it's better to fill a stage with personality and entertainment rather than large props and paraphernalia. I will show you, with practical examples, how to stretch and pull every ounce of entertainment out your props, your script and interaction to deliver a show that is high on impact and low on luggage. This lecture could change your opinions, your show and possibly your life."
BILL ABBOTT

June 9:
The Thing Workshop Intensive - by Bill Abbott

"The Thing is one of my favorite tricks of the past decade.
It's not a floating ball effect, it's a discovery of invisible life.
Well made, and a beautiful astonishing effect.”
David Regal
MAGIC Magazine

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Toronto: Magic at The Annex Live

From Abracadabaret:

Date: Friday, May 18, 2012
Venue: The Annex Live | 296 Brunswick Ave

Our performers are:

• James Alan – Magician, and generally curious character
• Baldini – the resident magician at the Ontario Science Centre
• Bobby Motta – star of the one mans shows Non Fiction and Headgames
• and
• James Harrison – Ontario’s foremost theatrical pickpocket. 

Read more and buy tickets.

Vancouver: Magic and Music at the Rio Theatre

From the Langley Times:

“Until a few months ago, the only salmon I cared about was the one I put on my barbecue,” confesses magician Wes Barker.


“Does that make me a bad person?”


On Saturday, May 5, the Langley native is going to try to atone for his sins by performing in an evening of Magic and Music at the Rio Theatre in Vancouver in order to raise money for TENUK (www.tenuk.org) a non-profit organization dedicated to saving salmon in B.C. waters.

Read more.

Calgary: Ryan Pilling’s Suitcase of Wonders

From Wonder Show:

Next show: Friday May 18th, 2012

Featuring a 2000 year old trick alongside never-before-seen magical innovations, Ryan will present a variety of entertainments to delight and bedazzle*. He’ll defy impossible odds, show you curious mysteries, and you’ll laugh a whole lot along the way.

Read more and buy tickets.