Spencer brings his magic act and more for two shows Feb. 29 at CSB

Magic is usually thought of as entertaining tricks and deception of the senses.

But what if magic also had the power to include, help people overcome challenges and build community? A performer coming to the College of Saint Benedict espouses these beliefs.

Kevin Spencer will be performing at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29, at the Gorecki Family Theater, Benedicta Arts Center on the CSB campus as part of the Fine Arts Series at CSB and Saint John’s University.

Spencer is an award-winning magician who has performed the world over with his wife and partner, Cindy. In their 25 years of running their theatrical illusion production, they received the 2009 International Illusionists of the Year, the 2015 International Magicians of the Year and were recognized six times as Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year.

After this success in big commercial shows, Spencer decided to go into a new practice of magic, bringing it to schools and hospitals to benefit children, parents and educators. Spencer is well-known for his uses of magic in special education and physical rehabilitation.

He employs the techniques and skills of magic tricks to entertain, improve the educational experience through training, and include children no matter their abilities or challenges. Be prepared for a fun and interactive experience where several kids will get the chance to go up on stage and participate in the action. This is magic in its most teachable and inclusive form.

This show, which is designated as sensory friendly, is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all ages and abilities. This includes special accommodations such as reduced loud sounds and bright lights during the performance, allowance for audience members to move and talk during the show and quiet room spaces.

Families will be provided with ample space if they want to bring their own items such as seat cushions and manipulatives into the auditorium.

In addition to his two performances, Spencer will be bringing his accessible magic to special education students at several schools within School District 742, including Madison, Lincoln and Oak Hill elementary schools in St. Cloud; Kennedy Elementary School in St. Joseph; and North and South junior highs in St. Cloud. He will also provide development sessions for local professionals and education students at CSB/SJU.

“We are committed to diversity and inclusivity as a part of our series and we are especially excited to be able to bring Kevin Spencer’s magic and inspirational spirit to our region,” said Tanya Gertz, executive director for the Fine Arts Series. “There is such a need for this type of programming for families. We will continue to bring artists like Kevin Spencer and sensory friendly performances as a part of our season.”

Tickets are $6 for all attendees of the two showings.

For tickets, call the Benedicta Arts Center Box Office at 320-363-5777 or order online.

This performance is sponsored in part by Microbiologics and Brian and Karla Myres.

The activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

This activity is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.