In 1966, Mike first saw the film "The Flim Flam Man."  While it was indeed doubtful that it was actor George C. Scott's hands doing the actual trickery, it was the performance of the card magic classic "Ambitious Card"  that inspired Mike to make the commitment to not only learn about magic, but to master it and perform it well.

 

Perhaps it was predestination or kismet, whatever the reason, a budding magical career got a boost when Mike crossed paths with Pete Petrashek at a liquidation sale of magic props in Omaha, NE.  Pete, film librarian for the Society of American Magicains (SAM), took Mike under his wings and encourged him to become part on the Omaha chapter of the SAM.  It was here that the thirst for magic was nourished, knowledge expanded, performances honed and the character and persona of "Magic Mike" was born. 

 

In the following years, Magic Mike took his act public, performing for many private parties and business and professional organization throughout the Midwest.  He became a frequent lecturer at area magic conclaves and conventions and was an established attraction at Julio's, one of Omaha's fine restaurants.  However, the run ended when Mike decided to head east.

 

A Maryland resident since 1990, Mike has established himself as one of the hardest working professional magicains in Mid-Maryland.  His performance skills have been on display at venures ranging from Constitution Hall in Washington, DC to numerous appearances at the White House.  And while the White House may seem like a long way from Dwight, Nebraska, Mike keeps it all in perspective.  "In all honesty," says Mike, "everybody just needs to be entertained every once in a while.  And if I can bring a smile and a gasp or two, I've done my job."  And thousands of people who have seen Mike perform can attest to his success.