Illusionist Josh Farley will bring his Magic Across America Tour to Wessington Springs on Friday, May 8, with an 8 p.m. performance at the Historic 1905 Opera House.
Admission is a free will donation, with proceeds supporting the upkeep and preservation of the Opera House, including roof repair, painting and new signage.
Farley’s stop in Wessington Springs marks the 18th destination on his ambitious nationwide tour to perform in all 50 states in 50 weeks, a journey he said is as much about people as it is about performance.
“Anyone who comes to my show becomes part of my story, and I become part of theirs,” Farley said. “In a world that’s changing so quickly, it’s important to have those very human, shared experiences.”
The approximately one-hour show blends magic, illusion, comedy and audience interaction, with Farley promising “a little something for everyone.” From mind-reading effects to laugh-out-loud moments and interactive segments, the performance is designed to keep audiences engaged from start to finish.
“There’s really no dull moments in the show,” he said. “My number one goal is to bring people joy and give them a fun night out with family and friends.”
Farley, who has appeared on the CW television program Penn & Teller: Fool Us and Masters of Illusion Live!, brings more than two decades of experience to the stage. His show also includes a personal, inspirational element rooted in his decision to leave a promising path in engineering to pursue magic full-time — a choice encouraged by his grandmother.
“I promised my mom I’d never take that part out of the show,” Farley said of the story, which reflects perseverance and following one’s passion.
The performance is clean and family-friendly, though geared toward adults and older children.
“It’s not a kids’ magic show,” he said. “It’s meant to make adults feel like kids again.”
Farley said performing in historic venues like the Wessington Springs Opera House adds to the experience. “We love performing in historic theaters,” he said. “There’s just something special about those spaces.”
The event will be held at the Opera House, 108 Dakota Ave. N. For more information, contact Brian Bergeleen at 605-770-7448.
The performance is sponsored by Delvin and Lois Feistner, SACOTA, SACC and Venture Communications.