LANCE BURTON

Lance Burton is arguably one of the best magicians in the business. His seemingly innate skills in sleight of hand are complemented by masterful showmanship and good old fashioned Kentucky charm. A native of Louisville, Burton was named "World Champion Magician", by the Federation International Societe de Magique at the tender age of 22, making him not only the youngest, but the first American to receive this coveted award. And this is just the beginning of his long list of accolades, which is why it is not surprising that his performances at the Monte Carlo have been packing the house since 1996.

The show, both self-produced and directed, takes place in a theater named for the magician himself. It is a large enough forum for some grandiose tricks, (i.e. levitating corvettes), but maintains the ambiance of an intimate engagement. From ducks appearing out of thin air, to humans disappearing into thin air, Burton seemlessly transitions from one trick to the next leaving never a dull moment throughout the entirety of the show. He is accompanied by six stunning female assistants as well as master juggler Mike Goudeau, all of whom contribute greatly to complete the act.

All in all, Lance Burton's performance is anything but a typical magic show. His mastery of magic as an art form is unprecedented, placing his show head and shoulders above any other. Why settle for less? Burton truly is one of, if not the best.

By Kristine Gregorian