Elizabeth and Doug Bott invited magician The Great Gerard to the close of the Boys & Girls Club for the summer season on Thursday, May 20 at the Community Centre in Clifford.
The Great Gerard shared his inspirational message of following faith to be a blessing in the world, interspersed with magic tricks and illusions using beads, rings, ropes, mirrors, napkins, books, cards, cages, and balloons.
“How’d he do that?” “Awesome” and “That’s the best!” were heard. Even the Cookie Monster character had a message that snitching cookies could lead to stealing and time away from home in a special school or jail. A balloon and stick trick showed how God can come into your heart. A rope trick that becomes three in one represented God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Eight rings magically joined together showed how wonderful it would be if everyone joined together to come to church.
With a lot of help from the audience, a number of cards showed ways people live with sin. Turning the cards over revealed a message of hope and love in the name of Christ. It is easy to turn your life over to God. A seemingly empty bag revealed much more than the idea of the Holy Spirit as a real live dove emerged wings flapping in majestic splendour. Moments later an empty box produced a real live bunny, much to the delight of the children.
Applause and cheers ended the show as the children rushed to pet the dove and bunny and meet The Great Gerard.
Everyone was treated to popcorn, hot dogs, brownies, ice cream, and candy to complete this wonderful evening. As the children left, they all received an invitation to pack their bags and hop on board the Boomerang Express. This week-long adventure will begin Aug. 9 at the Rotary Pavilion in Clifford.
The Great Gerard’s magic-with-a-message expresses believing in Jesus’ message to love one another and build a relationship with the Lord.
Gerard Dietrich started in 4-H clubs. His showmanship worked well in performing magic, and The Great Gerard of Kitchener emerged. His unique talent as a bead artist led him to represent Canada at a magic show in Limerick, Ireland. He is proud of his son Steve, who recently won an award for best showmanship at an international magic event in Europe.
You can contact Gerard at 519-893-3052 or magic@thegreatgerard.com for further information.