John Kinney

When you bring me to your event, you’re not just getting tricks—you’re getting an experience that’s interactive, personal, and unforgettable.

Your guests will laugh, gasp, and lean in as impossible moments happen right in their hands. I blend sleight of hand, psychology, and storytelling to create magic that feels both playful and meaningful. No two performances are ever the same, because I adapt my magic to the room, making sure everyone feels part of the experience.

Event planners can expect a professional who shows up prepared, flexible, and easy to work with. I know how important it is to keep the flow of an event smooth, and I make sure the magic adds energy without ever disrupting. Whether strolling table-to-table or performing a feature set, I focus on creating lasting memories your guests will be talking about long after the event.

Hi, I’m John Kinney — magician, actor, and lifelong learner.

I grew up in St. Louis, with a memorable year in Poland as a kid, and started performing early in theater—at The Muny, Arrow Rock Lyceum, Stages St. Louis, and Opera Theatre of St. Louis. I earned a Kevin Kline Award for Best Supporting Actor, a BFA in Acting, and even spent a decade in NYC building my craft before moving to Orlando.

When I’m not performing, I love exploring antique shops with my wife, collecting vinyl records, savoring morning walks with Howard (my dog), and starting the day strong with a cup of coffee. I’m endlessly curious about what inspires others—whether that’s a chef mastering sushi or an artist’s journey through an album.

I believe performance is more than tricks — it’s about connection, creating memories, and making people feel something lasting. My magic is all about surprise, laughter, and moments that stay with guests long after the event ends.

My magic is flexible and can adapt to a variety of event settings, from living rooms to large banquet halls. Most shows require very little setup, but here are some general guidelines:

-Strolling/Close-Up Magic: No technical requirements. I perform while mingling with guests, standing or seated at tables.

-Parlor or Feature Performance: A small performance area (approx. 6’x8’) with good visibility for the audience. A quiet space without heavy background noise is ideal.

-Lighting: Standard event lighting works fine. If possible, avoid very dim or flashing lights during performance segments.

-Sound: For groups under 50, no microphone is needed. For larger audiences, a handheld or lapel microphone and speaker are preferred.

-Other Needs: One small table or surface is appreciated, and access to the performance area a few minutes prior for setup.

I keep things simple so you don’t have to worry—my goal is to fit seamlessly into your event.