Matthew’s Magic is Afoot

Sunday, December 29, 7 p.m., SeaView Theatre (reception at 6 p.m.)

— from Donna Laslo —

Magician Matthew Laslo is prepared to present some holiday magic.

Thirteen-year-old Matthew Laslo, an award-winning magician, will step onto the big stage at the SeaView theatre on December 29th at 7:00pm for his first full-length illusion show. This is an exciting and big step, one he’s been working toward for several years.

It all started when his grandfather noticed Matthew’s fascination with magic and for Christmas gave him his first magic kit. Matthew was just six, but was soon performing tricks for family and friends. When he saw the delight and wonder in their eyes, he was hooked. He went on to perform for anyone who would watch: diners at the Orcas Hotel, tourists waiting for the ferry, shoppers at the Farmer’s market.

It was when his family followed the local high school basketball team to Spokane that his interest in performing was solidified. While dining out after the team’s last battle, Matthew slowly took over the restaurant with his magic tricks. The owner was so amazed by the excitement that he begged Matthew to come back. Athletic director Sandy Harris also noticed the effect Matthew had on the customers and offered him his first paying gig at a high school youth camp in Lake Chelan. At nine, he took to the stage for that event with confidence and charm, dedicating himself since then to the fundamentals of slight of hand, card manipulation, and perfecting the art of misdirection.

Matthew won top honors while competing with peers at the 2011 Stan Kramein’s NW Magic Jamboree in Newburg, Oregon, where he took home the coveted Ray Grant Memorial Award for “Outstanding Showmanship and Creativity.” At the annual Pacific Coast Association of Magicians conference he was a medal winner for the junior stage competition. In 2012 he won the local “Orcas Has Talent Jr.” and made it to the top three in the adult competition.

Matthew sets his goals high and knows that there’s only one way to get to headline in Las Vegas: practice, practice, practice. “I love performing and I need an audience to grow as an artist, and there’s no audience more supportive than my home town,” says Matthew. “I’ve added an exciting new element to the show with Maria Bullock & her arial silk artists, Madi Jane West and Virginia Sides. At this time of year, it seems perfect to provide some family entertainment in the break between Christmas and New Year.”

When asked why he chose Sea View Theatre for his first big show, he answered, “I perform the classics of magic and Sea View has that vintage feeling, like going back in time. The owner John Mount is a big fan of magic and is really supporting my efforts.”

In the spirit of giving, Matthew is performing at SeaMar Community Health Center’s annual Christmas Party that serves Marysville’s most needy families. Three hundred children and their families will be treated to a hot meal, presents from Santa, and The Magic Show. Joining him for that event will be singer/songwriter Madi Jane West, the trio Allmost Classical (Paris Wilson and Emy & Lisa Carter), and face painter Morgan Meadows.

This show promises to be high-energy entertainment, with lots of audience participation and amazing new illusions. Matthew’s magic is always laughter-filled and guaranteed to create a fun holiday memory for you and your family! With Special guests: Arial Silk Artists, Maria Bullock, Madi Jane West and more. Doors open at 6:00pm for a reception in the Marquee Lounge. Show starts @ 7:00pm.

Tickets are available online at BrownPaperTickets, Seaview Theater, or at Darvills Bookstore for $10 for adults, $5 for students/children, and a special Family Rate of $20. Net proceeds will benefit Orcas Open Arts.