Renowned magician Tim Kutch is set to captivate audiences with a family-friendly magic show at Vandergrift’s Casino Theatre this Saturday. The West Kittanning native spent his childhood honing his magical aptitudes, employing family members as the first witnesses to his spellbinding tricks.
Besides currently serving as the pastor at the First Baptist Church of Ford City, Kutch is also a part-time master magician. The local community is abuzz with anticipation for his performance. Brady Bottegal, a prominent volunteer and director of technology at the Casino Theatre, expressed satisfaction at Kutch’s return, promising a special show based on a mutual exchange of ideas.
With a reputation for enthralling audiences in high-profile corporate events across North America, Kutch’s magic repertoire includes close-up strolling magic, mind-reading, intimate parlor sessions, customized stage performances, traditional stand-up shows and grand illusions. His performances have traveled from Las Vegas to Canada, including stops in New York, New Jersey, Virginia, California and Chicago.
As shared by Kutch himself, his fascination with magic started at a young age. He received a magic kit at the age of six and would frequently visit the library to enrich his knowledge on the same. He harnessed this interest into a fruitful career that gives him immense pleasure in evoking awe, amazement, and a palpable sense of childlike wonder among his audiences.
Even with a bachelor’s degree in education from Clarion University and a master of divinity degree from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio, Kutch chose the path less traveled. He used his education primarily for substitute teaching roles, juggling between his pastoral duties and his calling as a magician.
Viewers can anticipate an immersive experience with illusions happening right before their eyes, thanks to the strategic use of an overhead screen and carefully positioned cameras throughout the theater.
Kutch’s illustrious career includes impromptu performances for celebrities like Matt Damon during the filming of “Promised Land,” and magic shows for NFL superstars like Justin Forsett and Courtney Upshaw.
After over two decades in the magical profession, Kutch continues to refine his style to be more interactive and appealing, using everyday items from the audience in his performances. He also competed and studied globally with famous magicians, even performing in Las Vegas after learning from esteemed Canadian magician Greg Frewin.
Kutch highlighted the power of magic in building bridges, emphasizing that magic transcends age, language, and cultural barriers. He continues to aim for making magic modern, relatable, and stylishly contemporary.
