How to be a teen magician

Lake Forest Park’s own, Charles The Magician (known to younger children as Charles The Clown), has written a new book for what he calls the “next generation of magicians.” The Teen Magician … That’s You! is designed to teach teens more than tricks. 

“It’s a book about a career path … or at least an introduction to a rewarding avocation,” Kraus says.

More than a collection of tricks, The Teen Magician … That’s You! is a guide to opening a birthday party entertainment business. Young magicians learn to create their own tricks, where to go for additional props, how to work with children, and with parents.

Charles has performed from coast to coast, on television, Broadway, and in Hollywood for over 30 years. A magician, clown and storyteller, he is an award winning recording artist whose children’s story CDs are carried in libraries and by most internet providers. Billboard Magazine called him “a true children’s comedian.” His A/M video was taped “live” on Sunset Strip on the Charlie Chaplin Sound Stage where Chaplin and Red Skelton recorded.

Charles presenting workshop with teens

“When I was a teen, I started doing children’s birthday party shows. It’s a wonderful opportunity for any magician, but especially for teens. You are providing a community service, picking up experience, spreading joy – all that, and you’re being paid!” 

“My new book explains marketing, a skill that translates to just about any career a teen may later pursue.” 

“Parents are often on the lookout for children’s party entertainers. And the nice thing about offering your magician services is that you can be entertaining and affordable,” Kraus adds.

Professional magicians and clowns charge hundreds of dollars for birthday party appearances. The Teen Magician … That’s You! suggests that beginning magicians appear for modest fees, in the $25 to $75 range. But even these are a substantial reward for less than an hour’s presentation.

Charles recently performing in Berlin

The book focuses on the many benefits of becoming a teen magician, including connecting with the community of magicians, locally and nationally, learning to develop a business and exploring the fascinating world of magic, which combines psychology, stagecraft and personal development. The book also reveals the secrets for several tricks that can be easily learned and performed by readers, and has extensive resource lists. There is even a section about curing stage fright. 

In addition to numerous illustrations, Charles’ book contains several newspaper clippings about his exploits as a teen magician. 

The Teen Magician … That’s You! is available at Third Place Books and the University of Washington Book Stores. E-copies can be found on line from Amazon and most internet suppliers. Additional information available here.