Simon Jukes is up to his old tricks.
Jukes, a professional juggler and performer, and the B.C. Ride to Conquer Cancer are presenting their second annual Va"RIDE"ity show.
The fundraising show features two-time world champion of magic Shawn Farqhuar, comedy magicians Trevor Watters and Lorena (who will soon be seen on Canada's Got Talent), the eccentric juggler Simon English, international comedy performer the Checkerboard Guy, the Incredible Underground Circus, magician Brian Cooke, the ELEVATE dance crew and MC/comedian Donovan Dresher.
The family-friendly fundraiser is taking place on Saturday, May 12 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Columbia Theatre.
"It's an incredible lineup," said the former Queensborough resident. "I have got the current world champion of magic. He (Farqhuar) just performed on the Ellen show. He won a big competition with Penn and Teller."
Jukes hosted last year's variety show, but is taking to the stage as Simon English for this year's event. He's thrilled to once again be performing at this year's event at the Columbia Theatre.
"We are really excited to perform there," said Jukes. "It's historic. It has so much history behind it. As a performer, there is something about being on a stage where so many people have stood before you, where so many New Westminster residents have used that as an entertainment hub."
Tickets are $20 and available at www.lafflines. com/reservations.html. If the event doesn't sell out, a limited number of tickets will be available at the door for $30.
Jukes is preparing to take part in his second two-day Ride to Conquer Cancer in honour of his younger brother David, who died of cancer in October 2009 at the age of 27.
While growing up in Birmingham, England, Simon developed an interest in juggling and performing at a young age, while his brother was more interested in mountain biking, golfing and playing his Xbox.
Jukes will once again be riding his brother's beloved mountain bike on the twoday bike trip through the Pacific Northwest in June. While he cycled solo last year, he's riding with a team for this year's event.
For more information on the Ride to Conquer Cancer, visit www. conquercancer.ca.
www.twitter.com/
TheresaMcManus
