Kirby VanBurch Magic Show - News and Press Releases

You Can Be A Star in Branson MO!

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 23:41:00 +0000

Kirby VanBurch and MyStudio launch search for the next BIG Branson Act!

(Branson MO ~ Monday, June 20, 2011) Kirby VanBurch, internationally renowned entertainer and illusionist, announced today that he is searching for a featured act to perform during his show in October of 2011. Kirby says, “In order to find just the right act to feature I’ve teamed up with MyStudio to acquire audition videos. MyStudio was also used by Simon Cowell’s X-Factor to acquire audition videos and I thought it was a great way to find my next big featured act.”

The search begins June 20, 2011 and will run through August 31, 2011. Those looking to create their audition video for consideration can visit any one of the MyStudio HD Recording Studio locations and then submit it on-line at www.MyStudio.net. Videos uploaded for the audition will be reviewed and those considered for the Kirby VanBurch stage will be posted and voted on by the general public. Kirby and his staff will select the winner from the top ten audition videos as voted on by the fans.

The act chosen to perform will receive two weeks of understudy under Kirby VanBurch and then a week of actual on stage performance either as a solo act or within an existing act. During this time period the Kirby VanBurch Theatre will pay for housing, meals, transportation in Branson, and weekly compensation. “I’m very excited about this partnership with MyStudio,” says Kirby. “I think this is the perfect way to find the next Big Thing for my Branson show!”

Kirby VanBurch, called the “Prince of Magic” by the Princess of Thailand, voted World’s Best Illusionist by the World Magic Awards, named Entertainer of the Year and Magician of the Year (multiple times) by the International Magicians Society has been called one of “America’s Best Magic Shows” by the Travel Channel. His show in Branson has been a top selling show for over 19 years and features exotic animals including Royal white tigers, a helicopter appearing in 3 seconds flat, mind-reading, assistants cut in half, up close and personal sleight of hand, and much more. To learn more about Kirby’s show go to KirbyVanBurch.com.

If you would like to audition to be a star in Branson, Missouri go to Kirby’s website at KirbyVanBurch.com For a complete list of MyStudio locations and audition details, please visit www.MyStudio.net.

About MyStudio® HD Recording Studios
The award-winning MyStudio is the brain child of technology and entertainment entrepreneur Larry Ryckman. MyStudio is a self-contained, state-of-the-art, audio/video recording studio that offers true professional recording studio-quality audio and HD broadcast-quality video with an ease, economy and convenience never before available. MyStudio eliminates the high cost and technological and logistical barriers inherent in the creation of high-quality online video content thereby opening up a new world of opportunities for the creation of user-generated video content by amateurs and professionals alike.

MyStudio can be used to create videos for music, modeling, comedy, dating, job resumes, auditions, personal messages and greetings. A recording session for up to five minutes costs only $20. Using Hollywood-style green screen technology, MyStudio users can choose from over 1,000 HD virtual backgrounds for their videos or they can upload their own custom backgrounds. In addition, MyStudio offers thousands of licensed karaoke tracks from EMI Music Publishing and Universal Music Publishing and others thereby allowing consumers to legally create music videos for public viewing on-line. Within minutes of recording, videos are automatically uploaded to the MyStudio.net website, which offers free member profile pages and video sharing in a social networking environment. At MyStudio.net, members can enter contests, receive free DVDs of their videos, download MP3 audio files, access embed codes.

About Kirby VanBurch and the Kirby Vanburch Theatre
Kirby VanBurch delivers the World's Largest Magic Show at his own theater in Branson, Missouri. The Travel Channel says it’s, “…one of America’s Best Magic Show!” The production is packed full of disappearing acts, huge illusions, Royal White Tigers, Leopards, Lions, other exotic animals, a helicopter appearing in 3 seconds flat, assistants cut in half, and more. The show opens with an award-winning rapid fire illusion after illusion that no other act in the land of magic does. Along with his big illusions, Kirby VanBurch brings a warm rapport with the audience to the stage as well as up close and personal sleight of hand. Performing in Branson for 19 years, Kirby adds new illusions and featured acts to his show each year. The Kirby VanBurch Show has been named Branson’s Best Show, Branson’s Best Magic Show, and more year after year. Kirby’s accolades include being voted Entertainer of the Year and Magician of the Year by the International Magicians Society many times as well as being named “World’s Best Illusionist” by the World Magic Awards and the “Prince of Magic” by the Princess of Thailand. Kirby and his family of furry (and not so furry) friends perform at the Kirby VanBurch Theatre at 2353 Missouri 248, Branson, MO. Kirby appears (and disappears) at 3 & 8pm. There are also Magical Mystery Tours backstage with Kirby’s Big Cats after the show. Theatre contact information: 417-337-7140, 1-877-223-7959, and www.KirbyVanBurch.com

New Tricks For Branson Mainstay - Kirby VanBurch's Branson Show

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sun, 29 May 2011 14:07:00 +0000

Tyler Francke for the Branson Tri-Lakes News

The man known as the “Prince of Magic” has some new tricks up his sleeve in this year’s show, including a couple of acts, that while impressive, could actually not be called “magic” at all.

Kirby VanBurch said he generally tries to change about a quarter of his show every season, both to stay competitive and keep his repeat guests entertained.

Shortly after greeting a young fan and his father backstage, VanBurch said, “They’ve seen me three years in a row. I try to stay updated for these kids who come back every year.”

He said the theme of his 2011 show is based on wishing, à la Aladdin and his magic lamp. The production starts off with a bang, literally, as a “genie” flies out of a larger-than-life lamp and darts around the stage.

After settling down a bit, she welcomes the audience with VanBurch’s new theme song, an adaptation of “Arabian Nights” from Disney’s “Aladdin.” Read the rest of the story here: http://bransontrilakesnews.com/entertainment/article_0990934a-88a0-11e0-8be7-001cc4c002e0.html

About Kirby VanBurch Show in Branson MO from TravelMyEarth.com

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:02:00 +0000

Blog by Fred Hawkins

Upon arrival at the show site we were impressed at the building that looks like Aladdin’s Temple from the outside. Upon entering we found that they serve refreshments like a movie theater, they don't have a dinner show, like some of the others in Branson. This is a fast pace show, so the eating of a meal during the show would not be conducive to following all the action. When we entered, the lobby had a small fountain and a statue of a weird looking man in a tuxedo. At least we thought it was a statue, it turned out to be a gentleman making weird faces by crossing his eyes and having the bulge out. He was a mime, with some of his movements supported by sound effects. For example: when he spread his hands and held them to his ears like he was answering a phone a ringing sound was heard. At first, our five year old was scared of him. Then he became enthralled with him and would not stop following him as he went from group to group providing a nice way to occupy the waiting time.

For the show we sat about five rows from the front, directly in the middle of the stage. The four rows in front of where the children sat did not have seats, so the performers could walk part way into the audience. It also, ensured they had great visibility of the show. As for the show, what can I say but it was mesmerizing. As expected, assistants, tigers, snakes and Kirk Vanburch all traded places in boxes that were not connected in any way making it appear like there was true magic on the stage. He even made a helicopter appear on the stage, an event he developed for his NBC TV special. His show was great, but it was not limited to his magic. Also included was an act where a woman climbed and danced up and down two strips of cloth hanging from the ceiling. She was very graceful in her movement. Also in attendance was a champion cross bow artist. This was extremely impressive as he shot a crossbow at his assistant backward based solely on her guidance as to where to place the bow. And, in another demonstration he aligned six targets with crossbows attached in a crisscross manner. He hit the first target causing the crossbow to release and hit the next and repeating this two more times with last arrow aimed at an apple atop his head. It took a few minutes for him to put everything in just the right place, but this was a most impressive demonstration of his skills.

Read the rest here http://travelmyearth.com/kirk-vanburch-prince-of-magic-%E2%80%93-branson-mo

World Famous Classics Appear During the Kirby VanBurch Show in Branson MO

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 19:31:00 +0000

Special “Magic & Music” Christmas Show from Dec. 19-Jan. 1

(Branson, MO – Monday, December 13, 2010) – Kirby VanBurch, voted the World’s Best Illusionist, announces the appearance of the World Famous Classics during his “Magic & Music” Christmas Show.

From December 19 through January 1, The Classics will perform audience favorites and special Christmas songs during Kirby’s Show. Kirby says, “I wanted to give a special gift to our visitors for Christmastime. Having the Classics appear on my stage delivering their own special style of musical magic is a wonderful present. They’ll also be helping bring in the New Year at my Magical New Year’s Eve Show.”

Known for their unique harmonies, the World Famous Classics feature the amazing vocals of Lawrence “Rooster” Lockard, Eddie Stovall, Willie Nash, Yolanda Fletcher, and Andre Shepard. Some of the variety of songs visitors may hear during the show includes “Only You”, “The Great Pretender”, “My Prayer”, “Twilight Time”, “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes”, and many more. Kirby adds, “One of my favorite things about The Classics, besides their incredible music, is their interaction with our visitors. They like to be up close and personal, creating real warm and memorable moments.”

Rooster Lockard says, “Kirby has created some special illusions for us that we’ve used in our show in the past. Now he’s just making us appear on his own stage, which is pretty magical. We’re looking forward to a show filled with magic and music and hope our fans will join us for this unique and limited performance over the holidays.”

Kirby VanBurch features royal white tigers, huge illusions, jaw-dropping magic, and up close and personal audience interaction. His show as been called one of “America’s Best Magic Shows” by the Travel Channel and Best Branson Show, Best Branson Magic Show repeatedly. Kirby has also been voted International Magician of the Year, International Entertainer of the Year, as well World’s Best Illusionist.

Shows are at 3:00 & 8:00PM, Sunday through Saturday (no shows Christmas Eve and Day) with a special 9:00PM performance on New Year’s Eve. For more information and show schedules go to KirbyVanBurch.com or call 417-337-7140.

Kirby VanBurch discusses Ozark Mountain Christmas Shows and New Year's Eve

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 18:00:00 +0000

"The Prince of Magic" has come a long way - Branson Tri-Lakes News Story

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:29:00 +0000

By Joshua Clark Entertainment, Tri-Lakes News Story

Last week I ventured to the outskirts of town to visit “The Prince of Magic” himself, Kirby VanBurch.

His show has always been a favorite of mine ever since I first started visiting Ozark Mountain Country back in the early ‘90s. Back then, VanBurch shared the stage with a comedian named Phillip Welford and had one of the best variety shows in town.

Since then, VanBurch has honed his skills as not only a magician, but a great emcee and host, as well. I am very happy to report that the Kirby VanBurch show is still among my favorites and seems to get better each and every year.

VanBurch hits the crowd hard and fast with a handful of illusions, one after the other. By the time he takes a break to speak with the crowd, my head was spinning. Some of the tricks I had seen him perform before, but having hundreds upon hundreds of illusions at his disposal, there were also a few I hadn’t seen before.

Of course his menagerie of animals are still prominently featured in the show and tours of the backstage area are also offered to see where they spend their days and nights, but I’ll get back to that.

By far the highlight of the first half is VanBurch walking through a plate glass mirror, with the help of a youngster from the audience. Aside from the final illusion of the evening, which involves a helicopter, this bit was the most well-received.

VanBurch hooked the youngster up with gift certificates, a tour of the backstage area and even a free helicopter ride. One thing that really stuck out in my mind was the fact that he had a polaroid picture taken of the youngster and himself, and then told him that would be his free admission to the show for life. Not only did the child get a great experience, but it is something he will have the chance to come back and revisit forever. Very, very cool.

After the show I got the chance to tour backstage and see where the white Bengal tigers, an African lion and a black leopard call home. As big as those cats look while on stage, it is nothing compared to how big they look when you only have bulletproof glass separating them from you. The tour was really cool, and at $10 per person and $25 for a family, it is very reasonably priced.

In all, a great experience from beginning to end. This is the perfect show for families with children of all ages.

Family Fun Geared Toward an Entire Family Ages 8 to Adult Near Branson, Missouri

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:31:00 +0000

While Branson's claim to fame has historically been a Christian and country focused domain, the city expanded its shows and entertainment to include a larger audience. Considered by some as the "Vegas of the Midwest without the sex", Branson, Missouri, offers many family oriented, kid friendly shows as well. This article shares a sampling of kid friendly entertainment that delights adults as well.

Shows

First of all, choosing a family oriented show that engages children, youth, teens, and adults has always been tricky. Yet, there are two shows in particular that were geared toward all age ranges.

One of the Branson shows is a magician / illusionist named Kirby VanBurch. Kirby has won the Merlin Award more often than Houdini, and awes his audiences with class. His featured guest is a Royal white tiger that magically appears on stage. In addition, he makes a real helicopter appear on stage in less than three seconds. The Kirby VanBurch Show also offers a subtle Christian message. For example, during the show Kirby involves a younger child to help with an act. Afterward, Kirby gave the child a necklace with a biblical saying on it, like the one he wears. His mix of working fire and water into his illusions makes for an excellent family friendly show.

Read the rest of the story at http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5767338/kid_friendly_family_activities_to_do.html?cat=16

From Kirby's e-Mail - Crystal has this to say...

noreply@blogger.com (Kirby VanBurch Marketing) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:07:00 +0000

"Hello-
I am just writing to tell you that your show is amazing! My children and I came to Branson for the first time last week. We were there Tuesday-Sunday [July 27-Aug 1]. We were SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO excited to go to Wed.'s show!
When Wed. came, we couldn't wait...
From the second we walked into the door and were greeted by the man that we thought was wax (HA) to the minute we left, we were in awe.
You by far have an amazing show. We went to many shows and sites in Branson and your show hands down is number 1. I sat the whole time with my mouth open in amazement.
My kids don't know it, but I'm saving now to come back for the NY Eve show. I'm going to give them the tickets for Christmas. We have an 8 hour drive, but if the weather isn't bad...we will see you then!
Thank you for giving us the best memories and best vacation ever!
One more thing....the whole staff was so polite- everyone was wonderful!"

Your new family of biggest fans-
Crystal (and kids)

An e-mail sent to Kirby

noreply@blogger.com (Kirby VanBurch Marketing) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:01:00 +0000

From a visitor who attended the show in August:

"Just wanted to let you know what an awesome show you have. My husband and I came down with his family for his mom's 80 birthday. We had a great time.

I would also like to share with you that my husband and I came down a few years ago. I was a skeptic as to the whole "magic" idea. I was raised that all magic was of the devil. I want you to know how inspired I was by the way you explained that everything was an illusion. Then, more than anything, You brought in the importance of knowing Christ.

I now see magic in a different light, but mostly want to let you know that I appreciate you taking a stand for Christ. You inspired me and I hope you continue to do what you do to glorify God."

Thanks again,
Brenda

Magician with a message

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:31:00 +0000

Re-read this the other day and thought we would share it again. Good story when it was first written...and it still is today...By Randall Murphree - Guest Columnist for American Family Association

Kirby VanBurch quit school after eighth grade and set out to be a professional magician. Most would have predicted folly and failure for the young dreamer from Houston, Texas, but it seems his life was, shall we say, charmed.

Now, don't be put off by the jargon. Onstage today, in the world's largest magic show, Kirby addresses the issue of the illusions he performs and clearly articulates his Christian faith.

The road hasn't always been easy, especially back when the struggling dropout was working in a magic shop and performing at birthday parties. He struck out early for the bright lights of Las Vegas, where fortune smiled on him. He became one of the city's youngest-ever headliners. After building a worldwide reputation as a magician, he's now been performing since 1993 in Branson, Missouri.

I discovered Kirby on a recent trip when I decided to go to his show just because it was one I hadn't seen. I didn't expect to be much impressed, but I was. Much. And it's not just the magic. It's the man. And his message. In fact, even more than the magic, his story of perseverance and faith in Christ is captivating.

"It's not really magic," Kirby tells his audience. "There's no magic here. It's only illusion. I can't create things. Only God can create."

Fame and fortune

Kirby's dream began when he attended a magic show at age 7. He was heartbroken when the magician called for volunteers to come onstage, but skipped over Kirby. Adding insult to injury, the magician gave his young assistants a booklet revealing all the magical secrets of his show.

"My mom found me in tears after the show," Kirby remembers. But from that moment, he knew he was a magician.

Fast forward a couple of decades, and Kirby is the featured performer in a $30 million spectacular "Jubilee" at the MGM Grand Hotel in Vegas. He drew the national spotlight with a dazzling escape stunt. In a straitjacket and foot shackles, he was suspended upside down, 20 stories high, hanging only by a flaming rope. This escape stunt earned him a spot in the Ripley's Believe or Not Museum.

Even with fame, the road still had dangerous potholes. Moral potholes. "I fell into all the temptations that come with success in the entertainment business," he admits. "I lived a wild life. I nightclubbed and partied and I hung out with all those kinds of people. And then I got a job offer in Branson for two years. That's all I intended to do, two years. But I came here and I was born again."

He thrived in Branson, continued to hone his skills in a safer environment. Today his show includes the tricks and stunts you'd expect -- e.g., sawing women in half, separating the boxes and rolling them all over the stage. In another, he puts a woman in a big cage, drapes it briefly, then removes the drape to reveal a caged Branson -- not the city, but Kirby's Royal White Bengal tiger named Branson. Yes, fortunately, the woman soon emerges from another cage. Kirby's big cats are a unique and intriguing element of his show.

In other stage stunts, Kirby rockets into a cage on his Kawasaki Ninja 250. Yep, the drape covers him and is then drawn away to reveal an empty cage. Moments later, Kirby roars out of a different cage on the other side of the stage. The most stunning trick in the show is the appearance (in less than four seconds) of a full-sized Bell 35 Jet Ranger helicopter.

Faith and family

"My grandmother loved Jesus," Kirby says. "She was amazing." She taught the young Kirby about Jesus and planted a seed that would come to fruition years later.

"I started my relationship with the Lord in Branson. Thirteen years ago, a Baptist preacher named Jay Scribner came to speak to me after he saw my show. He said the Lord had put it on his heart to ask me if I was saved. That coincided with a growing hunger I had for God. I prayed the sinner's prayer that night."

To close his show, Kirby sits down in a rocking chair and talks softly about his grandma. Summer nights, he would crawl up in her lap on the front porch and she would tell him about Jesus. As he relates the tender story, Kirby cuts a four-foot length of yarn into short strips.

Grandma taught him that life can be fragile, like a thread. And we often find our lives shattered, broken -- or cut into countless little pieces, just like Kirby's yarn.

The trick with the yarn has a predictable climax, of course, but because of Kirby's touching monologue, it has a powerful impact. He opens his hands, and -- voila! No short clippings of yarn, only a full, restored four-foot strand.

"We can't put the pieces of our lives back together," Kirby says. "Only Jesus Christ can do that."

Yeah, it's not just the magic. It's the man. And his message.

About Randall Murphree, a regular contributor to OneNewsNow, is editor of AFA Journal. The AFA Journal is a division of the American Family Association, the parent organization of the American Family News Network, which operates OneNewsNow.com.

In Branson MO Kirby VanBurch: Prince of Magic!

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:02:00 +0000

by Linda Burligame, Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
July 7, 2010

The Princess of Thailand crowned Kirby "Prince of Magic" and as befits a prince, Royal Bengal Tigers are part of Kirby's marvelous, magical show. There are also panthers, lions, sometimes a boa constrictor. ("Lions and tigers and ... yikes!")

Kirby presents elaborate, extravagant illusions as well as sleight of hand, close-up "magic." My favorite? Hard to say. I love his Sands of the Nile, an illusion more than 3000 years old. Changing the color of sand ... in water?! "Using water from the Nile ... or, tonight, water from Lake Taneycomo!" I was at the show with my granddaughter Courtney recently; it's one of her favorites, too. And the HELICOPTER!! Kirby created this illusion for an NBC special.

Cutting two girls in half always astonishes; but when they're put back together wearing different outfits, well ... all you can say is, "How'd he do that?!" Kirby has excellent stage presence and presentation. His expression says, "Wait 'til you see this!" He's funny, too, when he works with a youngster ("kid") helping out on stage. Talking about magicians, Kirby mentions Harry Houdini. Someone in the audience whoops and applauds. Kirby grins and says, "Clap all you want to, he's not comin' out ... not at these prices!"

One of Kirby's close-up illusions is tearing a newspaper into pieces and unfolding it again as one piece. (Don't believe me. Go see for yourself!) The smaller illusions are no easier to "explain." Switching bottles and glasses around on a table — Kirby has so much fun with this one! Whether working with paper, bottles or helicopters, his skill is astounding. (A long needle goes into the balloon but it doesn't pop!?)

Kirby is an award-winning magician. He has been named International Magician of the Year, Best Illusionist in the World, and has received the Merlin Entertainer of the Year Award more than once — the "Oscar" for magicians!

Kirby's assistant is tied up and put into a bag, which is locked inside a trunk. Presto, don't blink, because now guess who's handcuffed inside the bag locked inside the trunk?!

The Big Cat Tour after the show is fun, marvelous to see these beautiful creatures up close. They are very regal, yet can be as playful as a pet kitty cat. Just bulletproof glass separates you and the cats! Enjoy the entire experience at The Kirby VanBurch Show!

Read more stories about Branson shows, theaters, and attractions in the Shepherd of the Hills Gazette. Click here to visit their website: http://www.shepherdgazette.com/20100707103/July-August-2010/kirby-vanburch.html

Here's What One of Kirby's Facebook Friends had to say:

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:11:00 +0000

"Hi, We went to Branson last weekend and we went to see our first show, it was your show. Wow, you are amazing. It is so refreshing to see a Christian illusionist, I wanted to let you know that you make a difference. You are wonderful and I just wanted to let you know you really touched us. Hearing you talk about your Grandmother and about Jesus was awe inspiring. Keep up the good work, God bless you!"

- Debbie, Raytown MO

Kirby VanBurch | Create Your Badge

One of the best magic shows is right here in Branson

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Wed, 19 May 2010 11:39:00 +0000

One of the best magic shows is right here in Branson

Guess who put Branson's Kirby VanBurch Magic Show on its list of America's Best Magic Shows?

Give up?

The Travel Channel!

Guess who agrees?

BransonWorld.com!

You will too after you see the show. There's really amazing illusions and lots of exotic animals like leopards, lions, big snakes and a Royal White Bengal tiger named Branson.

Full story right here: http://www.bransonworld.com/news/one-of-the-best-magic-shows-is-right-here-in-branson.html

Travel Channel lists America's Best Magic Shows

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 17 May 2010 13:40:00 +0000

Kirby VanBurch - Branson, Missouri

After traveling around the world and dazzling crowds with his wild illusions, Kirby VanBurch found a permanent home in 1992 in Branson, MO. Known as the Prince of Magic, his signature act involves the appearance of a 35-foot JetRanger helicopter in under 4 seconds. In addition to his great illusions, VanBurch’s magic show features an impressive menagerie of animal friends including leopards, lions, a Royal White Bengal tiger named Branson and, reportedly, a unicorn.

For the rest of the list go to the Travel Channel

Krissy over on Barefoot Mommies blogs about her trip to Branson MO

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:19:00 +0000

"We saw the Kirby VanBurch show. It’s a magic show, well illusions as he says it. It’s AMAZING. My kids LOVED this show and what kid doesn’t love magic and illusions!? Kirby VanBurch is a great entertainer and we had a lot of fun and lots of laughs! We were even able to tour the big cats after the show! There was even a lion that looked kinda mad if you ask me lol…But beautiful to say the least! I loved that he included the cats into the show."
Go here to read the entire story:
http://www.barefootmommies.com/?p=7959

What happens in Branson stays in Branson on GoRving Blog by Brad Herzog

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 21:15:00 +0000

Brad Herzog did an interesting blog about his visit with his family to Branson. Here's what he had to say about the Kirby VanBurch show:

"A couple of hours after that pleasure cruise, our third act turned out to be the kids’ favorite – master illusionist Kirby VanBurch. Generally, this isn’t my kind of thing. I tend to find such performances slightly unsettling and eminently frustrating. But we were only about 30 feet away when the guy made a motorcycle disappear and turned a female assistant into a python and divided two other assistants in half before mismatching their bottom halves. And I’ll admit, I must have said, “How does he do that?” a dozen times."

The whole blog is interesting and can be read at:
http://www.gorving.com/blog/index.cfm?mode=entry&entry=0562C62C-1422-1874-81D65697174B7645

Kirby VanBurch in World Magic Awards 2008 TV Show

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 21:02:00 +0000

(Branson MO ~ Tuesday, October 25, 2008) Kirby VanBurch, internationally renowned entertainer and illusionist, was honored with another special award, “Best Illusionist”, at the World Magic Awards 2008 in Santa Monica, California. The annual event was held on October 11 and was filmed for an upcoming TV special on MyNetworkTV.

Kirby add that “the World Magic Awards show was a lot of fun and as it is a benefit for Feed The Children it's an extra special event.”

The World Magic Awards 2008 will air on Wednesday, November 26 from 7:00 to 9:00pm. Check http://www.worldmagicawards.com/ for stations airing it in your viewing area. In the Branson Missouri area, viewers will be able to watch the show on My31 (KWMB 31).

The World Magic Awards 2008, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, has a variety of guests and performers including Lance Burton, Dan Sperry, The Amazing Johnathan, Ed Alonzo, Kyle Eschen, Greg Gleason, Franz Harary, Hans Klok, Mark Kalin & Jinger, Topas, Sos & Victoria, Jeff McBride, Roxanne, and Florian Zimmer.

Kirby VanBurch is known as the Prince of Magic and has received many awards including Entertainer of the Year from the International Magicians Society as well as Magician of the Year.

Kirby VanBurch performs live at his theater in Branson, Missouri. The show has been voted Best Branson Show, Best Magic Show, and received numerous other awards and accolades from fans and critics alike. His show features exotic animals including white tigers, amazing disappearing acts, a helicopter appearing in 3 seconds flat, assistants cut in half, up close and personal illusions, and much more. For the Branson theater show schedule visit http://www.kirbyvanburch.com/.

World Magic Awards 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:05:00 +0000

(Branson MO ~ Tuesday, November 25, 2008) Kirby VanBurch, internationally renowned entertainer and illusionist, was honored with another special award, “Best Illusionist”, at the World Magic Awards 2008 in Santa Monica, California. The annual event was held on October 11 and was filmed for an upcoming TV special on MyNetworkTV.

Kirby VanBurch is known as the Prince of Magic and has received many awards including Entertainer of the Year from the International Magicians Society as well as Magician of the Year.

Kirby perform's live at his theater in Branson, Missouri. The show has been voted Best Branson Show, Best Magic Show, and received numerous other awards and accolades from fans and critics alike. His show features exotic animals including white tigers, amazing disappearing acts, a helicopter appearing in 3 seconds flat, assistants cut in half, up close and personal illusions, and much more.

For the Branson theater show schedule visit http://www.kirbyvanburch.com/.

Bella Vista youth perfecting his prestidigitation

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 06:28:00 +0000

ANDRA ATTEBERRY Staff Writer andraa@nwanews.com
Posted on Wednesday, November 5, 2008
http://www.nwanews.com/bvwv/Community/7429

Levitating a card between two hands held about a foot apart looks easy when Bella Vistan Matt Whitson does his magic.

It looks easy because the Bentonville High School junior has been practicing card tricks for three years.

He got hooked on the tricks after watching his pastor perform one in Oklahoma, where Whitson lived before moving to northwest Arkansas.

But creating magic meant he had to learn to shuffle cards - one of the hardest things he had to learn, Whitson said. He had to practice making the bridge by bending the cards in the middle, letting them fall and weaving them together.

Just riffling the cards wasn't enough for the budding magician. He also had to learn to cascade them from one hand to the other while holding his hands a foot apart.

He opened a brand new deck of cards to demonstrate his shuffling and tricks.

"I have to warm up first or that happens," he said as the cards flew out of his hand onto the table and the floor. After working with the cards for a couple of minutes, they fell perfectly in a long stream from one hand to another.

Next, he shuffled the cards with one hand by taking a few out of the deck and slipping them into the middle of the pile. His nimble fingers handled the chore easily.

After the cards were mixed well, he demonstrated several card tricks where a person chooses one and hides it in the deck. Whitson then reveals what the original choice was.

One way Whitson revealed the chosen card was to tap the deck with his finger until the card rose to the top.

His mother, Joyce Abrams, has a favorite trick. First, she picks a card and puts it back in the middle of the deck. Her son then gives her a different card to hold between her hands. After shuffling the deck, he taps her hands, and when Abrams looks at the card she's holding, she discovers it's the one she originally chose.

"I can't figure out how he does it," Abrams said.

Just as he practices shuffling cards, Whitson rehearses these and other tricks every day. Oftentimes, he can be found in front of a mirror, making sure his hand movements can't be detected. He has to be smooth, Whitson said.

When he first began learning this brand of magic, Whitson would get frustrated and quit. But he always went back to the tricks after a break, he said.

"I started getting better and better."

He learned the tricks from a basic magic kit.

A trip to Branson, Mo., to see magician Kirby Van-Burch provided Whitson with both inspiration and an offer. The magician said that when Whitson is older, he could work as VanBurch's assistant.

Whitson has already performed his own show for about 70 people at Decision Point in Bentonville. He enjoyed the experience so much, he wants to entertain at birthday parties and other children's events and get paid for it.

Anyone interested in hiring Whitson can contact him at mattsmagic2007@yahoo.com, or call 586-9199 or 586-9299.

Although he loves magic and wants to perform card shows, Whitson is grounded in reality when it comes to his future. After graduating from high school, he plans to go to college to study accounting and marketing.

"I'm really good with numbers, and I love money," he said.

From the Springfield NewsLeader

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:00:00 +0000

Kirby VanBurch honored at World Magic Awards

News-Leader staff http://www.news-leader.com/article/20081020/BREAKING01/81020042

Branson entertainer Kirby VanBurch was given the award for Best Illusionist at the World Magic Awards 2008.The World Magic Awards are an annual salute to the world’s best magicians, many of whom perform. The event benefits Feed the Children. The event, held Oct. 11, was filmed. It is scheduled to run on the evening of Nov. 26 on channel KWBM My 31.For more information, see http://www.worldmagicawards.com/.

Voila! Award isn't illusion for magician

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 10:42:00 +0000

Nice article in newsok.com (The Oklahoman) on our friend Rob Lake.
By David Zizzo Published: October 20, 2008

Things are never quite what they seem around Rob Lake. That’s just the way he likes it.

Lake’s life of illusion began years ago when a 10-year-old Norman Oklahoma boy, Robert William Calonkey, visited Branson Missouri with his family. He attended a show by magician Kirby VanBurch and was so impressed, the boy stood in line to get an autograph. He told the performer, "Now I want to be a magician.”

The boy took a magic class, and year after year he would return to marvel at VanBurch’s illusions. Eventually, VanBurch began to recognize the boy and his passion. Click here to read the rest of the story: http://newsok.com/voila-award-isnt-illusion-for-magician/article/3312551

Kirby VanBurch Honored at the World Magic Awards 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:05:00 +0000

(Branson MO ~ Wednesday, October 15, 2008) Kirby VanBurch, internationally renowned entertainer and illusionist, was honored with another special award, “Best Illusionist”, at the World Magic Awards 2008 in Santa Monica, California. The annual event was held on October 11 and was filmed for an upcoming TV special on MyNetworkTV.

The World Magic Awards 2008 will air on Wednesday, November 26 from 7:00 to 9:00pm. Check http://www.worldmagicawards.com/ for stations airing it in your viewing area. In the Branson Missouri area, viewers will be able to watch the show on My31 (KWMB 31). The World Magic Awards 2008, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, has a variety of guests and performers including Lance Burton, Dan Sperry, The Amazing Johnathan, Ed Alonzo, Kyle Eschen, Greg Gleason, Franz Harary, Hans Klok, Mark Kalin & Jinger, Topas, Sos & Victoria, Jeff McBride, Roxanne, and Florian Zimmer.

Kirby VanBurch is known as the Prince of Magic and has received many awards including Entertainer of the Year from the International Magicians Society as well as Magician of the Year. Kirby VanBurch performs live at his theater in Branson, Missouri. The show has been voted Best Branson Show, Best Magic Show, and received numerous other awards and accolades from fans and critics alike. His show features exotic animals including white tigers, amazing disappearing acts, a helicopter appearing in 3 seconds flat, mind-reading, assistants cut in half, up close and personal illusions, and much more. For the Branson theater show schedule visit http://www.kirbyvanburch.com/.

Magician with a Message

noreply@blogger.com (DigitalMedium.net) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 19:32:00 +0000

Randall Murphree - Guest Columnist for American Family Association (AFA)

Kirby VanBurch quit school after eighth grade and set out to be a professional magician. Most would have predicted folly and failure for the young dreamer from Houston, Texas, but it seems his life was, shall we say, charmed.

Now, don't be put off by the jargon. Onstage today, in the world's largest magic show, Kirby addresses the issue of the illusions he performs and clearly articulates his Christian faith. Click here to read the rest of Kirby's story.

Magic Still Thrives In Branson

noreply@blogger.com (DigitalMedium.net) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:24:00 +0000

The Linking Ring gives you the update on Branson’s Magic Scene. Click here for the story which features Branson’s Longest Running Magic Show – Kirby VanBurch.

International Magicians Society presents Merlin Award to Kirby VanBurch

noreply@blogger.com (DigitalMedium.net) — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 20:10:00 +0000

(Westbury, New York - Wednesday, March 21, 2007) - Kirby VanBurch is awarded the coveted Merlin Award as The Entertainer of the Year 2007 by the International Magicians Society, the Largest Magic Organization in the World, as recorded in the Guinness World Records, with over 37,000 members worldwide.

Kirby VanBurch joins previous winners Penn and Teller, David Copperfield, Siegfried & Roy, Doug Henning, and Harry Blackstone as recipients of the most prestigious award given in the World of Magic.

Kirby VanBurch is no stranger to receiving awards. He has received the coveted Merlin Award as The Magician of the Year 2001 at the International Magicians Society's Gala Merlin Award Presentation at the Venetian in Las Vegas!

In the profession of magic, the Merlin Award is the equivalent of the Oscar for film, the Emmy for television, and the Tony for theater. It is presented only to those entertainers who have achieved the highest level in their craft on an International Global Consideration. The voting members begin with approximately one hundred names and narrow the list down to a select few. The criteria considered for a winner include talent, showmanship, originality, skills, and above all, the rare ability to entertain under any conditions. "All these attributes describe Kirby VanBurch right down to the charisma and stage presence that makes him the world class entertainer that he is," said Tony Hassini, Chairman/CEO of the International Magicians Society.

Kirby VanBurch received his Merlin Award on Saturday evening, March 24, 2007, in Branson, Missouri at his own theater. The Merlin Award was presented by Mr. Hassini, who flew in from Las Vegas for the presentation.

For more info about the International Magicians Society, please go to http://www.magicims.com/.