or Immediate Release: Contact: David Kuehn, Executive Director Cotuit Center for the Arts Phone: (508) 428-0669 Email: [email protected] Website: ArtsOnTheCape.org

Winter Vacation Magic with Rich Archer at Cotuit Center for the Arts Cotuit Center for the Arts will present “Winter Vacation Magic with Rich Archer and Company” on Tuesday, February 21, at 3 PM.

Winter Vacation Magic offers magic, mystery, and fun for the whole family. Archer is known for his inventive illusions, special effects, comedy elements, and love for sharing the magic. He invites children to join him on stage to help make the magic happen. All children will receive a free beginner magic trick at the door.

“We’re bringing back some old favorites, like the Floating Kid Illusion, with help from a lucky young volunteer from the audience, and the Comedy Sword Box, a family-friendly adventure,” said Archer. “There will be some great new winter-themed illusions as well, including a magical snowstorm. And, of course, Ab the Magic Bunny, a big furry snowball.”

Archer has been fascinated by magic since the age of 7, when his uncle pulled a card from behind his ear. He studied theater at the University of Massachusetts and has worked as a technical director for many theaters, including Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater (WHAT) and Wheelock Family Theater. He combines his two professions of technical theater direction and magic to create imaginative and mystifying performances.

“Everyone likes to be amazed, to imagine that the impossible is possible, and magic does that in a theatrical way,” said Archer. “It gives everyone a moment of wonder, where they can, maybe just for a split-second, believe in real magic.

“Grownups know it’s an illusion, that there is a trick to it, but during the show you can have fun with the audience and get them to suspend their disbelief for a few seconds. Younger kids can suspend disbelief for the whole show. It gives that little moment of ‘Wow, how did that happen?’” said Archer.

Archer’s magic shows often inspire children to learn want to learn some magic themselves. He teaches magic at various theaters, after-school programs, and libraries throughout the Cape.

“Magic involves hand-eye coordination, presentation, standing in from of a group and doing something. It’s a unique skill,” said Archer. “I was a shy kid myself, and magic helped me come out of my shell and be more social as a kid. It can be a confidence builder for kids; it can also be just a fun hobby. It’s fun to fool your friends.” Archer has performed over 1,000 shows for such organizations as the Barnstable Recreation Dept., Cape Cod Melody Tent, South Shore Music Circus, Harwich Junior Theater, WHAT, Wheelock Family Theater, and a variety of schools, libraries, resorts, and parties on the Cape and in the Boston area.

Tickets are $12 for children and adults. The show is 1 hour and 15 minutes long, with intermission. Concessions are available. Visit artsonthecape.org or call 508-428-0669 for more information and to purchase tickets. Cotuit Center for the Arts is at 4404 Route 28 in Cotuit. # # # What: Winter Vacation Magic with Rich Archer and Company

Where: Cotuit Center for the Arts, 4404 Route 28, Cotuit

When: Tuesday, February 21, 3 to 4:15 PM

Admission: $12 END