Behind the Bowtie: Robert Teszka on the Art of Authentic Amazement
In a bustling café in downtown New Westminster, magician and performer Robert Teszka reflects on the intriguing journey that brought him into the spotlight as one of the Lower Mainland's standout fringe artists.
“My parents bought me my first magic kit when I was a kid,” Robert recalls, smiling. “But it was a high school talent show that truly sparked my passion. A classmate performed some incredible sleight-of-hand, and I was hooked.” As a self-described theatre kid and science enthusiast who balanced school plays, choir, math competitions, and lego robotics club, magic became the perfect bridge between creativity and analytical thinking.
This dual interest eventually led Robert overseas to England, where he began a PhD in the psychology of magic. "Initially, I thought studying magic academically would be my calling," Robert explains, "but once I started performing professionally, I knew that was where my heart truly belonged."
His unique style—described as a blend of storytelling, improvisation, and theatrical performance—sets them apart. “Think vaudevillian professor," Robert jokes, adjusting his trademark bowtie. One of his most memorable acts, entitled "I Hate Magic," developed from a creative experiment focused on elements he disliked. “I made a list of annoying music, cheesy magic tricks, and common criticisms of magic,” Robert explains. “Surprisingly, that negative list turned into one of the most complex and fun acts I’ve ever created, complete with an original musical number.”
Being a fringe artist isn’t always glamorous. "I travel solo, carrying my props in a suitcase, performing wherever I can—sometimes above pubs or in makeshift spaces,” Robert says. Despite the challenges, the intimate nature of these performances fosters a genuine connection with the audience. "You never know what's going to happen," he laugh, recounting a particularly memorable show. "One time, a trick startled an audience member so much they accidentally punched me!"
Balancing secrecy with audience engagement is critical to Robert's performances. He quote famed magician Jim Steinmeyer: "Magicians guard an empty safe. The true magic isn't in the secrets; it’s in the experience we create.” This philosophy shapes his approach, protecting audiences from disappointment by emphasizing emotional impact over unsolvable puzzles.
Community remains central to Robert's work. As president of The Fraser Valley Magic Company, he works with the society's members to support local magicians through workshops, competitions, and performances. "The Parlour Magic Show, which I've been producing for over five years, exemplifies this commitment," Robert notes. “It brings together a vibrant community of magicians and variety artists, building friendships and lasting connections.”
Amid a surge of digital entertainment, Robert believes live magic holds special significance. "Magic brings people together," he emphasize. "No online video can match the feeling of seeing something impossible right before your eyes."
Aspiring magicians receive straightforward advice from Robert: learn widely from various performing arts, invest in books rather than single tricks, and, most importantly, find a community of like-minded artists.
Robert is bringing his captivating style to host an upcoming show at Metro Hall in New Westminster on March 28! Magic at the Metro will be a part of the Magic Festival held in New Westminster at the end of March. Attendees can expect vintage glamour, close-up pre-show magic, and an impressive roster of local performers. Exclusive VIP seats are available, with perks like a gourmet charcuterie board, collectible souvenirs, and more.
Tickets are available now and promise a night full of wonder and surprise. "It's more than just a show," Robert says. "It's an experience that you simply can't replicate anywhere else."
Get your tickets here!
For more information about Robert Teszka and his other shows checkout his website
