Illusion and charity combine for 'Jackie's Magic'

Posted November 12, 2015 10:00 pm

Jim Stanislawski submission

Jim Stanislawski, aka "Magic Man Jim Stan," founded "Jackie's Magic" 12 years ago in memory of his daughter and her commitment to charity. Courtesy of Jim Stanislawski

Before magician Jim Stanislawski's daughter and assistant Jackie died in a tragic automobile accident Dec. 7, 2003, she had taken it upon herself to launch her own food drive to support local families during the holiday season.

In her memory, Stanislawski created "Jackie's Magic," a food drive and magic show that combines his love of magic with Jackie's commitment to charity and service.

In appreciation for a donation of nonperishable food items or a cash donation, participants will be treated to a 90-minute, family-friendly stage show featuring some of the best magical talent available. There will also be close-up magic performers, face painting, games for kids and balloon artists who will provide preshow entertainment.

Now in its 12th year, "Jackie's Magic" will take place Saturday, Nov. 21, at Warren Township High School's O'Plaine Campus Auditorium, 500 N. O'Plaine Road, Gurnee.

The evening illusion show will begin at 7 p.m., and the doors will open at 5:45 p.m. for the preshow entertainment. Raffles with items and services from local businesses will also be from 5:45 p.m. until show time.

The lineup of performers for "Jackie's Magic" will include Jim Stanislawski, aka "Jim Stan Magic Man," Jim's son, Jimmy Stanislawski, Bill Blagg, Joe Diamond, "Circus Boy" Bobby Hunt and Trent James, with magician duo Mark and Sue Holstein serving as masters of ceremonies.

Preshow entertainment will include Barry Henby, Anthony Stockton, Marshall Philyaw, John "Doc" Morrissy and Brian Vehrs.

All food and money collected at the door will benefit the Warren Township Food Pantry, and money collected from raffle ticket sales will benefit The Jackie's Magic Garden and Greenhouse Project at Warren Township High School, as well as other programs at Warren that benefit students with special needs.

Donations can also be sent to: Warren Township Center, 17801 Washington St., Gurnee, IL 60031. Make check's payable to Warren Township and put "Jackie's Magic Food Drive" in the memo line.

For more information, including details about the performers, visit www.jackiesmagic.com or like "Jackie's Magic" on Facebook.

Nationally-touring magician Bill Blagg will bring his high-energy stage show to this year's "Jackie's Magic" Nov. 21. Courtesy of Jim Stanislawski

Jimmy Stanislawski, son of Magic Man Jim Stan, performed close-up magic for "Jackie's Magic" for several years before joining his father in the main stage lineup in 2012. Courtesy of Jim Stanislawski

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