Even though “REZA Edge of Illusion” has been featured in massive venues and on broadcast television, the well-known illusionist at the center of the performance, Reza Borchardt, or just Reza the Illusionist, will bring his magic to Concordia’s Brown Grand Theatre on Sunday, April 19.
The whimsical show begins at 3 p.m. in the historic theater, where audience members can expect illusion, magic and wonder. According to Reza, his love for magic began as a 6-year-old kid when a traveling magician picked him out of the crowd in elementary school in Brookings, South Dakota.
“I begged my parents for a magic set for my seventh birthday,” Reza said. “Not only did they give me a magic set, they supported my dream from that moment forward and have fueled my passion from a hobby into a career.”
From that day forward, Reza worked on his illusions and his career, landing him on larger and larger stages and even on television and streaming services, where he appeared on PBS, MTV, Netflix, Hulu and more. Reza also owns a 1,000-seat theater in Branson, Missouri, where he performs around 200 shows each year.
Now, for the second consecutive year, Reza achieved a world-renowned award, where he joined in the honors of fellow famous magicians.
“Winning the Merlin Award for Illusionist of the Year was surreal,” Reza said. “When you grow up studying legends like David Copperfield, Criss Angel and Penn & Teller, you never imagine your name will be mentioned in the same sentence. That moment felt like validation, not just for me, but for my entire team who works tirelessly behind the scenes.”
He continued, “Awards are incredible milestones, but they’re not the ultimate goal. The goal is that feeling when the lights go down and the audience gasps. That’s the real reward. The Merlin Award pushes me to innovate even more and to surprise people in ways they didn’t think were possible.”
The lessons he’s learned from his many shows have culminated in his newest performance, “Edge of Illusion,” where attendees can expect to see seemingly impossible illusions alongside concert-level lighting and video production to create a magical experience.
Reza always thinks of the audience, though, since his performance is well-known for comedic timing and interactive moments to connect with those watching his show.
“For me, it’s that shared moment of total wonder,” Reza said. “When a room full of people reacts at the same time, it’s a powerful moment. In a world where everyone is distracted, magic brings people back into the moment.”
He continued, “Watching that happen, especially in a place I’ve never performed before, is what keeps this exciting for me every single time. I’m thrilled to be with you all in Concordia… I hope each of you are ready for a night you will never forget.”
To learn more about the event and ticket information, visit the Brown Grand website at www.browngrand.org/events.
