GAINESVILLE, Texas — The illusionist known simply as Reza has sold more than 1.5 million tickets worldwide, appeared on Netflix, NBC, CBS, and Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and in 2025 took home the Merlin Award for Illusionist of the Year — the highest honor in magic, previously awarded to David Copperfield, Criss Angel, and Penn & Teller.
On Sunday, Feb. 22, he brings his touring production "Edge of Illusion" to the State Theatre at 200 E. California St. for two performances at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. The show features large-scale illusions combined with concert-level lighting, video production, comedy, and audience participation.
Reza spoke with the Cooke County Record ahead of his Gainesville stop.
CCR: You just won the 2025 Merlin Award for Illusionist of the Year. What did that moment feel like?
Winning the Merlin Award was surreal. When you grow up studying legends like David Copperfield, Criss Angel, and Penn & Teller, you never imagine your name will be mentioned in the same sentence. That moment felt like validation — not just for me, but for my entire team who works tirelessly behind the scenes.
But it doesn't change how I approach the work. If anything, it raises the bar. The goal is that feeling when the lights go down and the audience gasps. That's the real reward.
CCR: You were inspired to pursue magic at age six after a school assembly in Brookings, South Dakota. Do you remember the moment that hooked you?
I became interested in magic at the age of six after being selected as an on-stage volunteer by a magician at my elementary school. I begged my parents for a magic set for my seventh birthday. Not only did they give me one, they supported my dream from that moment forward and fueled my passion from a hobby into a career.
Every time I see a kid in the audience staring wide-eyed, I think about that six-year-old version of myself. If I can be that spark for just one kid, that means everything to me!
CCR: The Chicago Tribune called your show "a rock concert meets magic show." How important is production design to modern magic?
It's everything! Magic today can't just be about "How did he do that?" It has to be immersive and experience-driven. Lighting, music, video, sound design — those elements don't just support the illusion; they amplify emotion.
When we combine high-energy visuals with large-scale illusions, it turns a trick into a moment people remember for years.
CCR: You've appeared on major TV networks and streaming platforms. How does performing on TV differ from performing live?
Television is like a surgical procedure — it's about framing, angles, and timing within seconds. Every move has to be perfect because the camera catches everything.
Stage is alive. You can feel the audience's energy and ride it. There's nothing like 1,000 or more people reacting at the exact same moment. I love both, but if I had to choose, live stage wins! There's no filter between me and the audience. It's raw. It's real!
CCR: What does the process of creating a brand-new illusion look like?
I sketch ideas, then work with engineers, designers, and choreographers — it's a collaborative process. Some illusions take months. Others take years. We prototype, test, break it, fix it — over and over.
We also test new illusions with my residency audience in Branson at my theatre, because that's where you learn the most. Audiences are the ultimate focus group!
CCR: What can families in Cooke County expect at the State Theatre on Feb. 22?
My show is for anyone and everyone of all ages. We travel all over the world plus do around 200 shows at my residency theatre in Branson, Missouri. We're constantly changing and enhancing the show based on audience feedback and new concepts I create with my team.
I am stoked to bring my brand of magic and illusions to the State Theatre in Gainesville! I hope each of you are ready for a night you will never forget!
Tickets for Reza's "Edge of Illusion" at the State Theatre are available at reza-events.fantaztix.com. The State Theatre is located at 200 E. California St. in Gainesville. Shows are at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22.