Gillam Family Illusions is preparing for its fifth annual show in Jefferson City to benefit the Council for Drug Free Youth, and the local family isn't resting on its laurels.
At a glance
[]"We have reworked the show significantly," Aaron Gillam said. "70-80 percent will be new."
Even some of the staple illusions that are being kept in the show have been retooled, with either new elements or new music.
Part of the constant evolution of the show is due to the kids - Marie, 15, and David, 13 - growing up and taking on more prominent roles. This year, for instance, David will take the lead in a trick that involves him in a flying box while his sister stars in an illusion in another box - one containing only shadows.
"That's a big part of it," Aaron said. "They (the kids) have different roles now. As they get older, they can do that."
In the 90-minute show, which contains an intermission, audience members also will see a floating table, a head impossibly turning around its body, and an unusual weather pattern for a climate-controlled indoor area. "There's going to be a 100 percent chance of snow," Aaron forecasts.
Another signature trick of the show will involve an illusion with "danger" involving an audience member. "We'll try to read each other's minds, and if all goes well the audience will stay dry," Gillam said.
This could potentially be the last show the Gillams do as a benefit for the Council for Drug Free Youth (CDFY), Aaron said. This is the fifth of a five-year agreement for the family to perform. The Gillams always have drawn big crowds, but CDFY hasn't yet decided what its fundraising plans will be for next year.
"We have lots of people who come out and support us, so we really appreciate that," Aaron said.
The Jefferson City-based family balances its illusion show with work (Aaron is a teacher at Jefferson City High School and a previous Teacher of the Year there, while Denise teaches piano), school, and extracurricular activities. Marie is a dancer, while David plays soccer.
Still, the family manages to perform together during the year and especially throughout summer. They tour across the country, performing at various venues. After their show here, they'll travel in the following weeks to Kentucky and Louisiana for shows.
"It's always nice to do something at home," Aaron said. "It's one of our favorite shows of the year."
What: Gillam Family Illusions, a 90-minute, family friendly magic show
When: 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28; doors open at 1:30 p.m., with general admission seats
Where: Miller Performing Arts Center in Jefferson City
Cost: $5. They can be purchased at the door or in advance from Samuel's Tuxedos, Southbank or the local Council for Drug Free Youth.
Proceeds: Benefit the Council for Drug Free Youth