Magician Kevin Spencer, Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Artist in Residence, to Present Free Sensory-Inclusive Performance
Sarasota, Florida – April 3, 2025 – The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is pleased to announce award-winning magician and educator Kevin Spencer will make his debut as the organization’s Artist in Residence on April 21, 2025. His weeklong residency will culminate with The Magic of Kevin Spencer, a free sensory-inclusive performance on Saturday, April 26 at 1 p.m. at Selby Auditorium on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus (8350 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota). This special performance is designed to welcome all audiences, including families with individuals who have autism or other developmental or intellectual disabilities with sensory sensitivities.
The foundation’s residency program brings nationally recognized artists to the Gulf Coast region, providing opportunities to collaborate with the community and address diverse needs through their art form. As part of Spencer’s residency, he will work with local teachers, occupational and physical therapists, and organizations including The Haven, Pinnacle School, and Oak Park School, facilitating his “Hocus Focus” workshops. These workshops aim to use the art of magic to support learning goals for individuals with disabilities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kevin as our Artist in Residence and introduce him to the Sarasota community,” said Kelli Maldonado, Executive Director of Mission and Impact at the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. “His unique ability to make magic accessible—especially for individuals with special needs—sets him apart. This performance is thoughtfully designed to provide a welcoming and enjoyable experience for families with children who may not feel comfortable in traditional performance settings.”
The Magic of Kevin Spencer show on April 26 is an interactive performance blending storytelling, stage magic, and audience participation. This sensory-inclusive performance will feature relaxed lighting, seating, a quiet break space, and ASL interpretation. Spencer's innovative approach to magic aims to enrich lives, foster meaningful connections, and break down barriers for individuals of all ages and abilities. The performance will feature relaxed lighting and sound, flexible seating, and a quiet room available for families. A social story will be available to families in advance.
Event Details:
Performance Title: The Magic of Kevin Spencer
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 1:00 p.m. (Doors open at 12:00 p.m.)
Location: Selby Auditorium, 8350 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
RSVP: To reserve free tickets, visit PerformingArtsFoundation.org/Events/The-Magic-of-Kevin-Spencer
For more information on accommodations or additional support, please contact Programs@PerformingArtsFoundation.org.
About The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s mission is to create and sustain a vibrant performing arts center, advance education, and enrich communities by inspiring minds through the power of the arts. The Foundation has partnered with the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall since 1987 to support arts education throughout our region, serving more than 39,000 students and their families annually with enriching arts-based education opportunities and professional development for more than 400 teachers across five counties.
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is leading the vision to build a new Sarasota Performing Arts Center as a public-private partnership with the city and in collaboration with the Bay Park Conservancy and Van Wezel Hall. For more information about the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, please visit: PerformingArtsFoundation.org.
About Kevin Spencer
Kevin Spencer, Ph.D., is an award-winning performing artist, educator, and researcher whose career seamlessly blends artistry with academia. For over 25 years, Spencer and his wife, Cindy, captivated audiences worldwide with one of the largest and most acclaimed theatrical illusion productions in the United States. Their exceptional contributions to the art of magic earned them numerous accolades, including the title of International Illusionists of the Year in 2009, six Performing Arts Entertainer of the Year awards, and the prestigious 2015 International Illusionists of the Year award from the Milbourne Christopher Foundation for their significant contributions to the field.
At the height of his success, Dr. Spencer transitioned from the big stage to classrooms and hospitals globally, becoming the leading authority on the educational and therapeutic applications of simple magic tricks. His groundbreaking work centers on using magic to empower individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, intellectual challenges, emotional disturbances, and trauma histories.
Dr. Spencer holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in arts and academic interdisciplinary education, and a Ph.D. in education with a focus on special education. He also maintains certifications in neuropsychology, autism studies, and trauma support.
Spencer was recently recognized as EliteX Magazine’s Visionary Illusionist and Educator of the Year, 2024, celebrating his innovative approach to merging magic with therapeutic and educational programs that continue to impact lives around the world.