RUMFORD — While most kids this summer are camping, playing in or near water, some are studying to perform magic in “The BIG Show.”

Students of 49 Franklin’s School of Magic and Showmanship have been taking a break from normal summer fun to study the art of magic under the guidance of local magician and theater owner Scot Grassette and with the assistance of Nick Graham.

For some, this is their third set of magic classes and they are excited to show off some of the skills they’ve learned. Lucas Malley has attended all three sets of classes and is looking forward to performing his newly attained skills. He has overcome being on stage in the first set of classes and in the last BIG Show he dealt with two audience volunteers with Dollar Bill in Lemon, a challenge for even seasoned pros. In this BIG Show III, Lucas will be working the multiplying Billiard Balls, an advanced effect that takes plenty of practice and finger dexterity.

Logan Graham will offer a free choice of 6 envelopes to 5 audience members one which has a $100 bill, we’ll find out how he does on show night! Drew Quirion is working on some very deceptive (and classic) moves that will show his skill with a full glass of liquid.

New to the classes is Drew’s brother Sam who is looking forward to participating in some of the BIG Show illusions, Sam will also attempt his first card trick on stage. Brooke Brown has attended all the classes and will perform a stage illusion all by herself. Brooke always adds some comic relief with her facial expressions and humorous demeanor.  As Grassette says, “She’s a ticket! She brightens up the stage and puts a smile on your face.”

Three of the BIG Show students recently performed in the Little Tykes Magic classes and show, which was for ages 7 and under, and this set of classes is for ages 7 and older. In this show, Taylor Arsenault will attempt a prediction made before the show, and will find out if her prediction is correct with the help of an audience member. Lee Carrier will perform an amazing rope transposition using two volunteers, and Alana Gotto will produce a bottle, perform an impossible effect, then give all out for examination. All eight students will assist and perform several illusions and all will have their feature moments in this entertaining array of magic.

The BIG Show III takes place at 49 Franklin’s Mystic Theater in Rumford at 7 p.m. on Saturday August 5. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Theater snacks and drinks will be available for purchase. All tickets are $8 available on-line at www.49franklin.com and at the door. Enter the theater on the right side of the building all the way out back.

Students of 49 Franklin’s School of Magic and Showmanship pose near some of the props they will use to create an entertaining evening of amazing magic. From left, Taylor Arsenault, Lee Carrier, Brooke Brown, Alana Gotto, Lucas Malley and Logan Graham. Not in the photograph, but performing are Drew and Sam Quirion. 

Photo: Scot Grassette

Students of 49 Franklin’s School of Magic and Showmanship pose near some of the props they will use to create an entertaining evening of amazing magic. Left to Right – Taylor Arsenault, Lee Carrier, Brooke Brown, Alana Gotto Lucas Malley, Logan Graham. Absent from the photo is Drew and Sam Quirion.