PERFORMERS

John Shryock & Mari Lynn masterfully incorporate skillful magic and grand illusion with drama, dance, and comedy and create for their audiences a mystical world of laughter, wonder, and amazement. Their high-energy, charismatic stage personalities are infectious and the audience experiences the magic almost as if they were performing themselves. 

A Tucson native, C. Topher Younggren has been performing magic for the past 40 years and is delighting to be making his Stars of Magic debut this year. He has been seen on many Tucson theatre stages as an actor, including The Gaslight Theatre, Invisible Theatre, Sahuaro City Music Theatre, Arts Express, The Rogue, The Scoundrel & Scamp, and Arizona Rose. 

Benny James started working on stage at 5 years old. As a magician, he has performed close up magic for over 10 years and is now looking to transition from the streets to the stage. Whether performing for kids or celebrities, Benny always brings quick wit and masterful skill to every performance. 

Valerie began performing at a young age when she started assisting in her parent’s magic act and then formed a duo with her brother. Valerie currently works for Raytheon and hopes to inspire other girls to break gender stereotypes of predominately male fields, whether it be magic, engineering, martial arts, etc.

Norm Marini developed an interest in magic at a very early age. Using his allowance money, he tinkered with tricks and learned new sleights throughout his teens. For the past two decades Norm has been entertaining audiences from all over. He is not only truly a proficient close-up, sleight of hand artist but also an accomplished stage performer. 

The word "Magic" comes to mind as soon as magician Steven Marcus steps out on stage. His classic style is unsurpassed with his character being the epitome of what a magician should look like. The moment he enters you will be enchanted by his stage presence. From performing for private corporations to various theaters, fairs and television appearances, audiences everywhere are delighted with Steven's prestidigitation. 

Jesse's fascination with magic began at the age of eight when he received a magic set for his birthday. This, along with borrowing books on magic from local libraries and watching several magicians perform there, quickly ignited a passion for mystery, sleight of hand and illusion. This is Jesse’s first appearance on the Stars of Magic stage, and he is honored to share the stage with some of Tucson’s greatest magicians.

Jasmine is one of Arizona’s rising young stars of magic. Following in the footsteps of her father, award-winning magician John Shryock, Jasmine has been performing since childhood and has already appeared at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. With talent, confidence, and a set of Tap Shoes, Jasmine represents the next generation of magical entertainment.

Ross Horwitz has directed and starred in countless magical productions from the Las Vegas Strip to the Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA where he has also lectured on Magic. He has been performing magic professionally for over 25 years and has taught both magic and performance at Pima Community College. Locally, he is a favorite magical performer at the major resorts and casinos.. 

Mike Bekedam has been devoted to the art of magic for years. In addition to joining this group of talented magicians, Mike spent many years perfecting his art through research and practice. After winning the Close-Up Magician of the Year contest, Mike knew he was ready for the world. 

Not your ordinary magician, Steve Ehlers, the Arizona Card Expert, is a multiple award-winning magician from Tucson, Arizona. Steve has performed throughout the United States and Europe. He is a sleight-of hand expert, specializing in close-up magic and gambling sleight-of-hand demonstrations.

 Experience the magic of the Arizona Card Expert.

Otto is an internationally acclaimed magician known for his smooth style, creative sleight of hand, and engaging personality. A favorite at magic conventions, theaters, and corporate events around the world, Otto combines astonishing magic with charm and humor to create unforgettable performances that leave audiences amazed.

Gabe's work in magic started in his sophomore year of college with the University of Arizona Magic Club. Since then, he has performed in both Tucson and Phoenix, has won the Tucson Society of American Magicians 2017 Stage Magician of the Year Competition, Gabe manages his own troupe, Silver String Circus, and was a finalist in the SAM National Stage Magic Contest in 2022.

Dan’s interest in magic goes back to early childhood when he received a  magic set for Christmas. While a Navy Reserve Officer, he entertained hundreds of fellow shipmates all over the U.S.A., Iraq and Afghanistan, Dan regularly performs close-up and parlor magic all over Tucson. He is the current President of the Tucson Assembly of the Society of American Magicians.  

Art Trillo has been a lifelong fan of Magic, first discovered it as a child. 

Tonight marks the 11th appearance at Stars of Magic.

And now, Art has a very special surprise guest joining him on stage-his dog, Bert the Magic Hound dog, assisted by Bella Ayers  his great niece. Together they’re here to entertain you with an incredible card reveal you won’t want to miss.

Aidan is making his Stars of Magic debut this year, and he’s thrilled to be part of the show! A passionate young magician with a love for entertaining, Aidan brings enthusiasm, creativity, and a fresh energy to the stage. He’s excited to share his magic with audiences and be part of an unforgettable evening of wonder and laughter.