Mystification Casts a Spell Over Crystal Falls, Michigan

I recently experienced Mystification at Crystal Theater in Crystal Falls, a small town in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

I am not much for magic shows, but I attended with an open mind as part of my self-imposed assignment of embedding in this small town in an area of the world referred to as "God's Country" by the local "Yoopers."

I admit, I am accustomed to the bang of big shows in relatively small venues like those at casinos in Atlantic City. I was not wowed in the same manner, but was thoroughly entertained.

Mystification is the duo Timothy and Barbara Tegge of Baraboo, Wisconsin. They have been working together since the early 80's. Traveling throughout the country, their synergistic energy captivates audiences of all ages.

Timothy warmed up the mostly local audience and drew them in. I took pleasure in watching the interactions. The audience was comprised of all ages, yet I felt the collective spirit of the theater that afternoon was one of an open minded child full of wonder.

Barbara was a delight as an assistant, but her talent shined through as she performed antipodism on various oversized objects. According to wikipedia, antipodism is the act of juggling with the feet and is also known as couch juggling.

According to their website, Barbara was raised in a small traveling circus in Holland. Timothy was also raised in a similar manner, but in the United States. They first met in 1980 while Barbara was touring as a featured performer with the Tegges' TNT & Royal Olympic Circus. Several years later they were married. It was then that Timothy could finally make real the production he had envisioned years earlier, combining the couples shared experiences to form Mystification.

Plate spinning was also served up with a good dose of comedy. Timothy played the dishwasher bent on gaining the attention of the lovely waitress in pink. The show would not have been complete without a ventriloquist act. The dummy showed up to audition and helped perform a magic trick with success. We were left entertained and with an uplifting message that I am still contemplating: Remember to keep the magic in your heart and the mystification in your mind.

Mystification is available most of the year. If you are looking for a hit for you next fundraising event, but sure to give this dynamic duo a call. Kids of all ages will be enthralled. Adults will enjoy the storytelling expertly woven into the show by Timothy, and the charming stage presence of Barbara.

I watched an audience transformed into children, learned the meaning of antipodism, and walked away thoroughly entertained. I hope that in my ongoing traveling adventures I have the good fortune to attend Mystification once again.

Vibrating Moose Productions, Bio | Mystification - Magic and Illusion by Timothy Tegge, Mystification

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