Disappearing Herrell's
Ice Cream & Close-up Magic:
A Special Benefit for
Historic Northampton
Saturday, September 21, 2024
6 pm: Ice Cream Social
7 pm: Magic Performance
Come celebrate our first full season in the Shepherd Barn, support Historic Northampton, and enjoy a night of disappearing ice cream and sophisticated close-up magic by sleight-of-hand artist Christopher McBride.
In the historic Shepherd Barn at Historic Northampton at 66 Bridge Street, Northampton, Mass.
McBride's performance continues a long tradition of bringing professional magic to Northampton. More than two centuries ago, Richard Potter, considered America's first professional magician, performed in Northampton in 1811 and again in 1819.  A century later, Harry Houdini is said to have dazzled audiences at the Academy of Music.

During this special benefit for Historic Northampton, McBride will use an ordinary deck of playing cards to perform tricks that seem to defy natural laws, challenge your perception of what is real . . . and make you smile. He will also explore some of the history of sleight-of-hand card magic, which dates back to the 15th century when playing cards became popular and widespread.

A large projection screen will show the fine details of his sleight-of-hand ensuring that everyone in the audience will have a good view.

Because McBride's performance requires an adult’s attention, this program is recommended for ages 15 and up.

Reservations Required.
Reserve Your Space.
Sliding Scale Admission
Teens: $15 - 20             Adults: $25 - 50
All proceeds benefit future events and programming in the Shepherd Barn.
Your reservation includes your choice of four delicious flavors of Herrell's Ice Cream, plus hot fudge sauce.  No wands required.

Choose from:
  • Burnt Sugar & Butter
  • Chocolate Pudding
  • Strawberry
  • Mint Chocolate Chip

All four ice cream flavors are gluten-free and nut-free.

Special thanks to Herrell’s Ice Cream for the donation of ice cream.

Please note: A dairy-free alternative will also be provided.
About Christopher McBride
Christopher McBride has studied classic sleight-of-hand magic for 45 years and has given thousands of shows around New England.

When he is not performing magic, McBride is a full-time maple sugar maker, a nature photographer, and a fine art framer in Westford, Vermont. This year his photographs mounted in his handcrafted wooden frames were selected for the May 2024 Paradise City Arts Festival in Northampton, Massachusetts.