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Article About I.B.M./S.A.M. Convention in Louisville - July 12-15, 2017
Category: Convention Posted by: SIMONE MARRON
Have your mind blown at four magic filled nights at the Kentucky Center
Two Louisville magicians will be honored at the grand-daddy of all magic conventions this month in Louisville.
Lance Burton and Mac King may have learned their slight of hand and magical ways while working at Caufield's Novelty on Main Street, but today the two have transformed their talents into international stardom and will be recognized during the Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians' (the world’s largest magic organization) joint convention taking place July 11-15.
"They have been an example of how hard work and talent really pay off," said local magician David Garrard. "What's great is that even though Mac and Lance have gained international success, they continue to come back to Louisville and encourage and support the magic community here."
More: Red carpet premiere of award-winning 'Billy Topit Master Magician'
Garrard says the duo was instrumental in giving him advice that led to an appearance on "Penn and Teller's Fool Us" television show.
Burton and King will take part in a red carpet movie premiere at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 11 starting for the family-friendly film “Billy Topit Mater Magicians,” an award-winning film produced by Burton.
The event will be held at the Kentucky Center for the Arts, 502 W. Main St. Tickets are $18 at Kentuckycenter.org.
The convention will also bring other big name acts to town and there are five evening shows at the Kentucky Center open to the public, including performances from Canadian illusionist Ted Outerbridge and Las Vegas’ leading comedy magician Fielding West, among others.
Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians will draw more than 1,200 professional and amateur performers to the Galt House Hotel from around the globe for the closed convention that features workshops, competitions, and a magicians bazaar filled with magic playing cards, vanishing objects and more.
"You know a lot of places don't have magic stores so this is a way for members to see items and tricks in person and talk to the people who know how they work," Garrard said. (He'll be scouting the vendors and networking with other magicians during the convention to find a new trick to use during the Kentucky State Fair.)
This is the second time the international magic convention has been held at in Louisville. It is the first time hometown magic heroes Burton and King will be honored.
"They are rock stars of the magic world and we are very, very proud of them," Garrard said.
Reach Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com or 502-582-4336.
IF YOU GO
8 p.m. Wednesday, July 12, “The Stars of Magic Opening Gala”
The gala features several acts including two from master magicians who competed separately on “America’s Got Talent." From Canada, illusionist Ted Outerbridge and from Japan, Hiroki Hara.
8 p.m. Thursday, July 13, “World Stars of Magic”
A variety show featuring mentalism, plate spinning, juggling and award-winning magic. Master of Ceremonies Max Maven will read minds as he brings on international magic stars Po-cheng from Taiwan, Japan’s Kenji Minemura, and world champion Juliana Chen from China.
8 p.m. Friday, July 14, “International Magic Competition”
Las Vegas’ leading comedy magician Fielding West will emcee the international competition for the highest awards in magic. Guest star and world-famous juggler Michael Goudeau, a featured Las Vegas performer during a 19-year run of Lance Burton’s Monte Carlo magic show, will round out the evening’s entertainment.
8 p.m. Saturday, July 15, “Stars of Magic Grand Finale”
America’s Got Talent Finalist Derek Hughes hosts a spectacular evening of world famous magic featuring the elegant dramatic fast costume changes of David and Dania; Maestro Voronin, the breathtaking illusions of Canada’s Murray Hatfield and more.
Tickets to each of the magic shows are $28 and $13 for kids 13 and under. Tickets are available by calling the box office 800-775-7777 or the Kentucky Center online box office.
