Calgary-based award winning illusionist and master magician Derek Selinger will bring his new touring show, ‘The Gift’ to Red Deer Oct. 28th at Deer Park Alliance Church.

‘The Gift’ is the essence of the art of magic with mind reading and pure slight of hand illusion played out on stage in a theatrical performance through Selinger’s finely-honed ability, according to a release.

With magic experiencing a renaissance through the popularity of television shows like America’s Got Talent and movies like Now You See Me and Now You See Me 2, ‘The Gift’ has taken cues in this direction and continues with the theme of intimate storytelling on a grand scale.

“I wanted to create a show that would be accessible, and yet thoughtful and sophisticated,” says Selinger. “This is a show I would want to attend, and is both an amazing demonstration of magic and an engaging piece of theatre. It is my desire to create an experience that is fresh and engaging, and breathes life into this ancient art in the same way Cirque du Soleil changed how we see the circus.”

‘The Gift’, which launched in Regina, is the culmination of Selinger’s 20-year work and experience, which has taken him around the world performing on television, cruise ships and on the world’s most beautiful stages.

Hailed as ‘one of the brightest stars in the world of magic’ by Las Vegas legend Jeff McBride, his career grew from the ground up in the very two cities that will serve as the launching pad for his new tour.

“My career began in Regina so I felt it was fitting that I premiere the new spectacle there,” he said. “Red Deer was a natural choice as our next stop, as the community has embraced my public shows over the years with open arms. Launching the tour in this way is a tip of the hat and a thank you to those communities who continue to support my work.”

A portion of the proceeds from the performance will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Red Deer. For tickets and more information, visit www.thegiftlive.com.

-Weber