By Rama K. Ramaswamy
Jean Piaget once said, "we begin as little scientists," with an imperative to thrive by making logical sense of the world. Modern psychologists claim that the concept of "magic,” like scary movies or roller-coasters, challenge these sensibilities and upset our sense of stability, as well tickle the same psychological centers in our brains activated by opportunities to scare and shock ourselves - safely.
Last year,when the Wellesley Community Center featured The Magic of David Oliver, the room erupted with the thrilled voices of its audience for the duration of the show.
Photos courtesy of Stephen Beach
Oliver will triumphantly return, after double lung replacement/transplant surgery, "in full force,” according to event planners, this Saturday, November 25, with two shows at 4:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Oliver was recently awarded the Ambassador Of Magic award by the Milbourne Christopher Foundation. According to WCC Executive Director Stephen Beach, "he is only the fifth magician in history to receive this award; it's considered to be similar to the Nobel Prize in the world of magic. The award celebrates David Oliver's lifelong interest in encouraging excellence, originality, and leadership in the art of magic".
Oliver has appeared on a variety of television shows and networks, including the Discovery Channel, CBS, the Documentary Channel, ABC, Extreme Makeover Home Edition, and Wellesley Media, to name a few.
"David Oliver has been the most requested guest performer in Broadway's longest-running magic show, ‘Monday Night Magic,’ in New York City,” added Beach. “For over twenty years, this neoclassic artist has entertained audiences on cruises, in hotels and at resorts to rave reviews. Colleges, universities and corporate events across the U.S. have asked David to come back to perform again, and again. Whether presenting his full evening, magic and comedy show in a theatre, banquet facility or virtually any venue, David Oliver never fails to bring an enthusiastic response from his audience.
"David Oliver is back in full force, and we are fortunate that he can be with us!”
Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for seniors and children under 12. Visit www.wellesleycommunitycenter.org and click on the tickets link on the home page to purchase.
