Ben Seidman Returns To The Valley As The 'Con Man'
we caught up with UW-Eau Claire grad and globally recognized magician, comic to learn what's in store for his next showcase at the Pablo Center
While a good magic trick has its beginning, middle and end – enriched with subtext and history – crafting a full live showcase has its own weight and implications, according to Ben Seidman.
Seidman, the internationally recognized comic and magician, will rely heavily on storytelling, perfect comedic timing and audience participation in his new original show, “Con Man (A True Crime Magic Show).”
Con Man, Seidman’s true crime magic show, will arrive in Eau Claire for just one show on April 11 at the Pablo Center at the Confluence (328 Graham Ave., Eau Claire).
“I really do feel like we are living in a time where no one knows who or what to trust anymore, we don’t know what is real,” Seidman said. “I have been thinking about con artists for many years, but I realized that con artists take a very different shape now than they did even 20 years ago.”
Throughout his career in the entertainment industry, the UW-Eau Claire graduate has appeared on Netflix series “Brainchild,” Vanity Fair video reels and, most recently, served as a consultant for the star-studded “Now You See Me” movie franchise.
At his forthcoming live performance, it’s likely Seidman will read your mind – or even steal your wallet – and ensure laughter throughout the night.
“This is the show that I have been dreaming about for my whole life,” Seidman said of Con Man. “The genesis of this show was 17 years ago; it was one simple thought: Can I do X? Can I possibly do this one very very specific thing that I don't think anyone has ever done before.
“It’s a huge show spoiler… I don’t want to ruin it for you,” he teased.
Much of the magic material in Con Man has been built over the course of Seidman’s career, with many tricks dating back to techniques used in the 17th century. Other elements of the performance were developed over the last two years, he said.
“I think live performance can be an antidote to feelings of loneliness and creating community. Magic specifically is uniquely positioned to do that in a really beautiful way.”
ben seidman
magician, comedian and magic consultant
Its framework, structure, script and narrative elements were written with the support of Travis Sentell, a screenwriter who also identifies as a magic enthusiast.
When asked about the identity of the “con man,” Seidman explained his observations that these “artists” manifest in different forms through today’s media landscapes.
He noted some of their techniques employ tactics similar to magicians, but with negative consequences.
“I say in the show, we think of trust as ‘I trust this person or I don't trust that person’ and really it should be more of a spectrum,” Seidman said. “The show isn’t a PSA of how to protect yourself, but it is in a way.
“I want to blow people’s minds, I want them to be laughing really hard, but there is a narrative element to (Con Man) that really should mess with people, if all goes well,” he continued.
As he consults for major motion picture screens or performs one-on-one magic tricks, Seidman continues to find fulfillment in reinventing historical magic concepts to develop fresh experiences.
While magic for television and film requires a different approach for how misdirection can be employed in the constraints of a screen, live performance allows for physical misdirection – even if the audience’s perception of the trick remains the same.
All of this, he revealed, centers on his goal to create a sense of wonder and astonishment.
“I'm willing to do anything it takes, regardless of how complicated, how long it takes, how expensive it is,” Seidman said of his work ethic for Con Man. “I will do anything to fool you really badly, because that is what gives people that sense of wonder.”
As Seidman reflects on the Chippewa Valley and his alma mater, he believes the area has only grown in its status as a “cultural hub.” Eau Claire and the Midwest continues to reveal amazing talents – some greater than what one might find in the entertainment industry of Los Angeles, where he currently resides.
While in town, he enjoys reconnecting with people from his past, including college friends who may even bring their children to his show, Seidman said.
Like Eau Claire’s expanding arts scene, the gift of live performance remains a valued fixture that brings people together through connection, shared experiences and much needed amazement, he noted.
“I want to blow people’s minds, I want them to be laughing really hard, but there is a narrative element to (Con Man) that really should mess with people, if all goes well.”
ben seidman
Con Man will be no different, as it weaves together both stories and tricks that are a little more punk rock and full of a whole lot of heart and dedication.
“This show is by far the best thing I have ever done and I am so freaking excited to do it in Eau Claire,” Seidman said.
“I think live performance can be an antidote to feelings of loneliness and creating community,” he continued. “Magic specifically is uniquely positioned to do that in a really beautiful way.”
Simply put, Seidman can’t wait to fool his friends, family and all locals who attend.
Ben Seidman’s “Con Man (A True Crime Magic Show)” will take place at 7pm (doors: 6pm) on April 11 at the Pablo Center at the Confluence (328 Graham Ave., Eau Claire). To purchase tickets (starting price: $50.46/person) visit pablocenter.org/events. Learn more about Seidman online on his personal webpage, benseidman.com.
