A magic act with a charitable twist

A magic show combined with a donation to a local charity made for a great match! On Thursday, October 19, VIP Productions brought an entertaining, family-friendly magic show to Westward Hall with magician Ray Anderson at the helm. “I could’ve been a doctor,” laughed Ray. The comedic magician, illusionist, and hypnotist did all sorts of tricks for the audience keeping them laughing throughout. “The beauty is that we do a great show, but then we also give back to the community,” explained Ray.

Event general manager and VIP Productions owner, Verner Presse, has been taking his production on the road across Canada, for 30 years. He and his troupe started in Ontario earlier this year and are making their way to Vancouver Island before heading back to North Bay, Ontario on a 24-community tour.

Each community he visits receives a boost to one of its local non-profit organizations and, for this specific event, Whitecourt Search and Rescue was chosen to benefit. “They pay the expenses associated with the show and then they realize a profit,” explained Verner. As a bonus, he guarantees each organization he works with will receive a certain amount. “We guarantee the group will make at least $1,000 at the show.”

Whitecourt Search and Rescue will be able to put these funds to great use as they work within the area to keep people safe. “The funds can be used for training and, of course, for rescue equipment.”

With his production company, Verner has raised millions for local charities by bringing amazing and entertaining shows to different communities. The audiences get to thoroughly enjoy themselves while helping raise funds that will benefit people in their own towns. “I would like to thank everyone who has supported the show. We had a really great audience and it was so nice to see you all out!”