Published: June 15, 2007 11:13 pm      

Magic camp planned in Goshen

Goshen-area children can wow their parents and friends with a little magic this summer.

The Goshen Park and Recreation Department is offering a five-day magic camp led by magician Steve Vaught for kids ages 8 and older. The camp will take place July 9-13 at the Rieth Interpretive Center in Goshen.

Vaught, a full-time magician, will teach kids a variety of tricks that they will be able to duplicate using their own custom magic kits. Vaught’s daughter, Madison, 11, will be on hand to assist.

During the last half hour of class on July 13, participants will show off all they have learned during the week for family and friends.

While learning magic tricks will be undoubtedly be fun, participants will learn much more than that, Vaught said.

“The camp does several things: It helps them learn magic tricks, but underneath all of that we are helping them to develop confidence to stand in front of people, dexterity skills, communication skills and good presentation,” he said.

Vaught said the skills the campers learn can be applied to any part of life.

“Everyone needs to know how to present themselves in the right way,” he said.

Vaught’s own love of magic began at a young age.

“I saw my first magician when I was in grade school. When the show was over I was so excited I ran home to my mom and asked if I could take magic lessons,” he said.

When he was 19, Vaught started studying magic more seriously. At 30, he was working as a computer drafter and was able to quit that job and do magic full-time.

Vaught works five night a week doing magic. He does school programs, including a specific program called “Flying High With Reading,” which uses magic to encourage children to read. Performances at Ryan’s restaurants, birthday parties, festivals and camps are also part of his job.

“I remember the joy I had learning magic at a young age. I want to be able to pass that on to other children,” he said.

Space is limited to 12 children.

“We keep it a low number so each child is getting one on one time with me. We focus on each child and help them with their skill level,” he said.

With the release of the final Harry Potter book set for July, the popularity of all things magic can only be a plus for a magician.

However, Vaught said, “What I do and the way I present my magic is totally opposite of Harry Potter. His is more mystical. What they are seeing here is that every illusion happens because of hard work and practice.”

Vaught said that anytime parents or family members show up to support the kids, it is very encouraging.

“It gives them an audience to perform for. That’s what magic is all about. We are practicing so we can stand in front of an audience.”

Vaught has a Web site at www.steve-magic.com.