Magician Richards bringing interactive style to Woodbury Expo
Magic has meaning for Brian Richards.
The Twin Cities-based magician, who is performing at this month’s Woodbury Community Expo, connects magic with education.
“That moment (on stage) is to impact lives, versus just smiles and laughter,” he said, adding that it is important to him “to make a difference – more than just entertainment.”
Richards brings his act to the stage from 10:20-10:50 a.m. at the Expo.
One of the expo’s organizers, Kim Snyder of the Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, said Richards’ educational component – and his interfacing with kids during the act – should make for a great show. Plus, she said, “Who doesn’t like a little magic show?”
He said the Expo audience should expect lots of interaction during the performance. He said the expo performance will be more of a general “fun” magic program. Typically, he incorporates different educational themes like conflict resolution, drug awareness, reading motivation and personal safety into his act.
He will be appearing in connection with Primrose School of Woodbury. Richards will also be appearing at the Primrose booth and might perform strolling magic as well.
Richards was introduced to magic as a child by his grandfather.
“He claimed he grew up with one of Harry Houdini’s assistants,” he said. “I asked who Harry Houdini was, and he told me to go open a book.”
Richards said he began introducing magic while working as a child care counselor.
“I used a lot of magic in my talks to kids,” he said.
That led to regular programs in the Brooklyn Park community, a step that later blossomed into a full-fledged career.
Richards stepped into full-time performing 12 years ago and hasn’t looked back.
He said he performs up to 300 shows a year, mostly in Minnesota, with some Wisconsin appearances mixed in.