We are so excited to bring you a Meet a Dad, local dad of 2, Magic Evan! Learn about how Magic Evan got started, some of his local favorites with his family!
Northern Westchester Moms: Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
Magic Evan: I’m originally from Weymouth, Massachusetts, and my wife and I have lived in Westchester for 8 years.
Northern Westchester Moms: Child(ren) and Age(s)?
Magic Evan: We have two children, ages 4 and 7.
Northern Westchester Moms: One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
Magic Evan: After earning a Masters Degree in Educational Theater from NYU, I worked within the NYC Department of Education and community based organizations to engage students on topics like leadership, conflict management and literacy. I loved partnering with K-12 teachers to share new strategies focused on teaching and learning through drama, facilitating school-based preventive intervention and nonviolent conflict resolution programs, and inspiring kids to cultivate their creativity in extended day programs across NYC and Westchester.
Northern Westchester Moms: Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
Magic Evan: My darling wife, Lara, deserves more thanks and credit than I can possibly share here! I perform for over 300 events every year, which means she’s frequently “solo parenting” on nights and weekends when I have shows. Beyond that, Lara’s the most beautiful, strong, creative and smart woman I know, and without her, there’d be no magic!
Northern Westchester Moms: Favorite things to do with your kids?
Magic Evan: Some of my favorite things to do with my kids include going to Mimi’s Coffee House, hiking at Westmoreland Sanctuary, apple picking at Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard, and playing in Bedford Hills Memorial Park and Leonard Park. I live for the sound of their laughter, seeing their faces light up with joy, and just watching them become little people… so any experience that lets me do that is my favorite!
Northern Westchester Moms: How did Magic Evan come about?
Magic Evan: When I was 8 years old, I went to the library, stumbled upon a magic book and was hooked! What I loved most from the book was this idea that performing magic for someone is like giving them a gift. Because of that idea, I set up a meeting with my elementary school principal about performing for the entire school. I told her I wanted to do a show with strobe lights, a wind machine and large illusions (I thought I was David Copperfield). My principal let me perform at the next school assembly. Admittedly, the show was scaled down (just a tad)…but I performed my first magic show for a school assembly when I was in the 3rd grade.
After college and graduate school, I focused on turning my hobby into a full time business. Since 2008, I’ve performed for over 3,000 events, appeared on NBC’s Universal Kids, and been named among the “Best Magicians for Kids” in Timeout, MommyPoppins, RedTricycle, CBS New York and more.
Website: www.MagicEvan.com
Northern Westchester Moms: How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Magic Evan: From the moment our children were in daycare, the parents we’ve met along the way have gone from mere acquaintances to some of our dearest friends. Together, we’re navigating the highs and lows of parenting, sharing holidays and special occasions, and have even survived a global pandemic!
“It takes a village,” as they say, and I’m so grateful.
Northern Westchester Moms: We would love to know your favorites?
Favorite restaurant with the kids? The Burger Barn, located at 289 NY-100, Somers has delicious food, friendly staff and great atmosphere! I always get their Fried Avo Burger with a veggie pattie and a side of onion rings. Mmm mmm!
Fave local date night? It’s a tie! The Lexington Square Cafe, 510 Lexington Ave, Mt Kisco,, or The Whitlock, 17 Katonah Ave, Katonah,
Fave place to have fun as a family? Hands down, the town pool and Food Truck Fridays in Bedford Hills Memorial Park are our favorites!
Fave local toy store? G. Willikers, located at 29 Katonah Ave, Katonah,
Want to learn more about how to have Magic Evan at your next party or event? Check out his website www.MagicEvan.com and on Instagram @itsmagicevan
