Norden the Magician defended his title as Children’s Magician of the Year at the Pacific Coast Association of Magicians annual convention last week, walking away with another win.
Mike Norden, a Maple Ridge resident, is a seven-time consecutive award winner for his children’s magic act.
The Pacific Coast association represents over 1,000 magicians on the coast from Alaska to California – with representatives from Japan and Australia as well.
Norden performed his 10 minute act and was awarded first place in the competition and was the only Canadian to win gold in Burbank.
“I feel my connection with kids is what sets me apart,” said Norden, who snagged the prize for the eight year in a row.
“I think I concentrate more on the entertainer value and what makes them laugh than I do on the actual magic trick.”
Norden and his business partner, Gord Boyes, who happens to also be the President of the Fraser Valley Magic Circle, competed in an improv magic event and took first place as a duo as well.
With nine other teams and individuals competing, and some of them some big name professionals, that win was almost better than the children’s medal.
With the win, Norden has completed the ‘Grand Slam’ of awards this year, winning first place in comedy, children’s, variety arts, and the FVMC Celeste Evans award for his dedication to the art of magic.
Through summer, kids across British Columbia get a chance to be wowed by Norden when he performs at libraries.
In June, he visited 50 libraries.
“It is very important to me to share the importance of reading with kids. I love books,” he added.
If you would like to see Norden’s show, he will be appearing at the FVMC’s monthly magic show at Mission’s own Opening Nite Theatre.
The show is called ‘Third Monday Magic’ as it is held on the third Monday of every month. Tickets are only $10 for adults and since the August edition is ‘Magic for Kids’ all kids 12 and under can catch the show for free.
Two other award-winning children’s entertainers will be performing – The Great Gordini and Tricky Ricky. For tickets, visit www.FVMC.ca.