Your show looks very dark. Can you explain?

-I generally don’t like to use the word “dark” to describe my show. There is nothing evil or frightening about my show. I think a better descriptive word is “dramatic”. In an attempt to break people’s image of a juggler having to be a clown with a bright wig and red nose, I’ve worked to develop a character that’s very different from that cliché. I really consider my show to be family oriented “theater”, not just a juggler. With that in mind, the show has to run the gambit of theater to include humor, dance, storytelling, music, comedy, emotions, and even drama. Finally, the background colors of my show (prop-stands and costumes) are black in color to allow a better contrast and visibility for the white colored props being manipulated. I’m always happy to discuss my show and answer any questions with any clients. If you have ANY concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Is your show suited for children?

-YES! I’ve performed my show for all ages from preschoolers to senior citizens. Every year I perform at dozens of elementary schools and in front of thousands of children. My show is geared to have appeal to all ages and is extremely family friendly. The music is lyric-free (with the exception of the occasional choral singing of notes only) and the comedy is one hundred percent clean. Additionally, I’m always conscious of the audiences I’m performing for. Each show is a unique piece designed specifically for the audience at hand. I believe very strongly in working closely with the client to create the best possible show for every audience of any age.



What does your show cost?

-My costs depend on the show choice and the location of the show (traveling distance). Please call for current prices on all show choices. Remember, that I offer discounts to repeat business. Additionally, I’m always happy to work with any budget to bring wonderful entertainment to your event.



I do NOT have a very high ceiling. Can you still perform your show at my venue?

-YES! Of course high ceilings are easier and allow for more tricks; however, I grew-up practicing my show in my parent’s basement with their massive 8 foot ceilings. Needless to say, I’ve become very good at adapting my show to fit any sized performance space. Therefore, regardless of your ceiling height, I can still bring a full and amazing show to your venue. No need to worry!



Why do you paint a cross on your cheek for shows?

-In the book of John Chapter 3, verse 30, John the Baptist comments that he must decrease so that the lord may increase. I have a very strong faith in God, and my wife and I are active members of our church (St. Mark’s UMC). When you’re standing in front of people, it’s easy to get a big head. The cross on my cheek reminds me, like John the Baptist, to decrease. It reminds me to stay humble and that all that I have is a gift from my Lord and Savior. The applause at my show belongs to Him and Him alone.



What is the hardest trick you perform on stage?

-The answer to this question continually changes as my show continues to evolve. Obviously, whenever a new trick is inserted into the show, that usually becomes the hardest trick and the one I will worry the most about. Outside of new tricks, the Brunn Finish (5 trick combination routine) and 7 Ball Juggle are two of the most difficult tricks I perform. My final trick (sword balance and knife juggle) is a challenging juggling trick and without a doubt the most dangerous part of the show (dangerous for me, that is). Outside of the show, I’m always working on new and complicated tricks like five clubs juggled continuously behind my back, eight and nine beanbags, and adding even more moves to the Brunn Finish trick.



Why do you paint your nails black for shows?

-It’s amusing how what can start as simple fun can become a necessary ritual for mental health! While performing at Busch Gardens, I found an old bottle of black nail polish from a Halloween costume. A friend challenged me (in good fun) to paint a fingernail black until I went an entire day at the theme park (6 shows) without a single dropped prop. Unfortunately, the day of no drops never came. What did come is that I had imbedded a mental ritual in my head of having to paint a fingernail black before every show. Similar to routines/rituals of professional athletes prior to games, black fingernails became my calming, consistent pre-show routine. Today, the colored fingernails have become a trademark of my show.



What does “Live in the Shadows, Play in the Light” mean?

-Some parts of life must forever remain a mystery. This saying is simply one of those things. Although the saying covers my website, promotional material, and upper part of my left shoulder, I cannot put its true meaning into words. It’s a personal belief, a way of life, and a perspective of survival. I invite all to ponder its meaning and define it in their own and personal way.



How often do you practice?

-While I was in college, I use to practice 6 to 8 hours a day. Now, my body and age are catching up with me. On average, I practice 1 to 2 hours a day. My practice sessions usually involve practicing the current routines in my show as well as working on new tricks and ideas. Outside of actual practicing, a large bulk of my day is still consumed by juggling. Prop building, mailing contracts, working on promotional material, and editing music and video are all extremely time consuming. Fortunately, juggling is strictly a labor of love.



Will we ever see you on America’s Got Talent?

-Despite the judges’ opinions, the show has served as a wonderful way for America to be exposed to some to the absolute best in variety entertainment. After speaking with a good friend who advanced a few rounds on the first season, I know that not auditioning was the right decision for me. The contractual terms of being on the show combined with the locations of auditions and show filming combined with the time required to tape episodes and travel to and from the set, simply does not appeal to me. I’m very happy and content with the success of my show and plan to continue growing my show on my own terms and timetable.



What kind of props do you use on stage and where can they be purchased?

-Please check the L.I.F.E. Links Page on my website. Scroll down to Equipment. I have a complete list of everything I use in my show listed there. Additionally, remember that many of my props are tailor made or altered for my specific juggling needs.