New Westminster-based master illusionist Vitaly Beckman, who (twice!) stumped Penn & Teller on their TV show Fool Us, will be onstage at The ACT Arts Centre in Maple Ridge for An Evening of Wonders Monday, Feb. 20.
Anticipate photographs and paintings coming to life, paintbrushes that paint on their own and your face disappearing from your own driver's licence — this 90-minute show will offer you a whole new take on magic when you step into Beckman's world.
The one-of-a-kind interactive show will be held from 3 p.m. for families and individuals of all ages (8+). There is limited seating, so it is advised to book your tickets soon.
This is a special one, Beckman said, as his career takes a full circle with this event. “Ten years ago, [the venue] was one of the first ones to give me a chance when they booked me,” he said. “They were one of the first medium-sized venues to book me in B.C.. It is great to be back after touring overseas and performing shows in Broadway, Las Vegas.”
The New Westminster resident gained world recognition after fooling famous Las Vegas magicians Penn & Teller and having his face emblazoning a huge billboard in Times Square.
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Beckman said he is enjoying touring the world again. All the tricks he has mastered during the hiatus will be included in the act, he said.
He encourages people to come out to his show with an open mind and expect to be blown away by the magic around them. “More than dazzling the audiences, my goal is to inspire them and uplift them,” he said. “And it is important now more than ever.”
Beckman will head back to the U.S. after this Family Day Maple Ridge show.
Vitaly — Art of Wonder
When: Monday, Feb. 20 at 3 p.m. (Family Day)
Where: Mainstage theatre — The ACT Arts Centre (11944 Haney Pl, Maple Ridge)
Cost: $25 to $38; $78 for family pack of four (limited availability)
For tickets and more information, check their website.
