Flower Clown Cleveland Ohio Flower Entertainment balloon twister

Magic by J.R.

Comedy magician J.R.  is performing more than what he refers to as "small miracles" these days. He is being sought after more than ever to perform at churches, restaurants, libraries, birthday parties, and family events throughout the Greater Cleveland area.

J.R. mesmerizes his audiences not only with his sleight-of-hand, but also “situation-comedy magic” which also includes fire juggling, stage magic, and most recently added balloon twisting and puppetry for his younger fans.  His quick humor accent the showmanship that have his clients saying “...that's not possible!” He does a fast paced, highly interactive show. It incorporates sophisticated sleight-of-hand magic and mind boggling mental aerobics, precisely timed and punctuated with comedy.  His exceptionally likable stage personality makes people feel instantly at ease and his performance is not blemished by any off-color material.  His presentation personally involves a large number of people from the audience and gives the group a common frame of reference that stimulates conversation and social interaction.  They usually brainstorm and end up losing sleep trying to figure out how what he does can actually be done.

J.R.  has devoted a lifetime to practicing magic. J.R.’s quest to be the best has been a lifelong endeavor, beginning with his first interest in magic at the age of four.  When attending St. Ignatius High School, J.R. studied under Art Thomas and learned that entertaining the audience was twice as important as fooling them.   J.R. later went on to John Carroll University where he studied theater, film, and television and earned his degree in Communications.  While still in college he met Buck Bresler, owner of Illusions Magic & Costume, and learned what real sleight-of-hand was.  J.R. has spent many years honing and developing his act and his performing style. According to the shop owner, "I've really enjoyed watching (J.R.'s) progress in magic from novice to polished performer. While diligently honing his skills he never lost sight of the fact that the entertainment aspect is the most important part of the performance. He'll fool you badly, and you'll love it!!

J.R. has performed all throughout the Greater Cleveland area including: The Cleveland Zoo, Deloitte & Touche, Beaumont High School, Cleveland Metro Parks, and the Cleveland Free Masons.  But J.R. still has a few tricks left up his sleeve.   He currently is a regular at Hilarities' Pickwick and Frolic in downtown Cleveland during select weekends.

Highlights include:

• Warm-up act for Night Court's Harry Anderson •
• Hilarities Comedy Club •
• Christmas Connections at Cleveland I-X Center •
• Boo at the Zoo - Cleveland MetroParks Zoo •
• Multiple Performances at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo •
• Cleveland Indians' Opening Exhibition Game to dedicate Jacobs' Field •
• Cleveland's 1993 New Year's Eve Party at Gateway • 
• Indians' Home Game Opener (1989-1991) •
• Participation in 90 minute juggling/magic production "Suspended Disbelief" •
• Appearance with Gregor Popovich and Moscow Circus • 
• House magician and juggling instructor at Emagication Magic Shop •
• Hosted local cable special on juggling •
• Multiple appearances on "Big Chuck & Lil' John" show •
• "Square to Square" parade and show •
• Numerous appearances at Stouffer's  Hotel  •
• "April in Paris" - Berea County Fairgrounds •
• Multiple appearances on channels 3, 5, & 8 - nightly news •
• Write-ups in Cleveland Plain Dealer and Sun Journal Newspapers •
• Juggling instructor at J. Bean's Magic & Novelty Shop  •
 

"You were magnificent last Sunday.  I heard many, many comments about how good you are.  People were really impressed, and you and (Jellybean) added much to the celebration... Thanks again."
-Reverend Frederick F. Pausche, St. Gabriel's Parish

"J.R. performed sleight of hand at our firm party. He was extremely entertaining and worked the crowd well.  Everyone was wanting more and looked for him to come to their table. I would definitely recommend him for any party."
-Mark Madeja, Deloitte & Touche

"The kids were extremely enthused about seeing magic and checking out books to learn some tricks on their own!  Great job J.R.!"
-Renee Hayes, Willowick Public Library

"... you definitely have a knack for working with the children as they could be heard throughout the library responding to you and enjoying every minute... all birthday parties should have J.R. and Jellybean!"
-Ginny Billson, Eastlake Public Library

"He'll fool you badly, and you'll love it!!"
-Buck Bresler , Illusions Magic and Costume