'Edge of Illusion': Reza set to perform 'unpredictable' show at Egyptian Theatre

DeKALB – An illusionist who presents his act like a rock concert will perform Nov. 1 at the Egyptian Theatre.

Reza, 33, whose full name is Reza Borchardt, said in his act, instead of using the typical clichés such as pulling a rabbit out of a hat, he uses motorcycles, saws and spray paint.

“It’s cutting edge and modern,” he said.

Reza, who has been performing since he was 6, and professionally since he was 14, said his show, “Edge of Illusion,” is both a rock concert and a magic show.

But the magic comes first and the show features a lot of production value, Reza said.

He said he’s prepared a show that has grand scale illusions such as a motorcycle appearing out of thin air, impersonators and a re-creation of Houdini’s most famous escape.

“It has danger, comedy and ‘wow’ moments that blend together in a two-hour roller coaster ride of magic,” Reza said.

Reza said music and film really inspire him. He said he uses music from bands such as Switchfoot and Linkin Park. As for film, he uses a lot of imagery and music videos that might inspire him artistically.

He likes to move his audience emotionally the way a rock band would. A band might play a fast song full of crushing riffs, but then the next song, pull out an acoustic guitar and even sing to the audience.

“It makes it unpredictable,” Reza said.

When he was 6, a magician performed at Reza’s elementary school in Brooking, South Dakota. He was hooked.

“I was brought up on stage,” he said. “And then my parents got me a magic kit when I was 7.”

Reza said his parents encouraged him when he was performing as a youngster and later on when he got serious about it.

“They were supportive in turning it from a hobby to a profession,” he said.

Although not everybody was encouraging. His uncle told him he could never make magic a career, but that clearly didn’t stop Reza. Instead, it had the opposite effect.

“His doubts pushed me even harder,” Reza said. “It wasn’t to prove him wrong, but to prove me right.”

Now he hopes he can inspire others.

“That’s the underlining narrative of the show,” Reza said.

His favorite part of the shows is pulling audience members up on stage because of how unpredictable it makes the moment.

“It’s not knowing where it’s going to go,” Reza said. “Every audience member is different. Some are outgoing and some are reserved.”

Alex Nerad, executive director of the Egyptian Theatre, said Wednesday there are still seats available, but he warned that people shouldn’t wait to buy them.

“We’re encouraging anyone wanting to go to the show to get tickets soon so they can get the best seats possible,” he said.

Ticket prices range from $30 to $55. There is a $5 discount for students of all ages and seniors 65 and older.

The doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. The theater is at 135 N. Second St.

“It’s a ton of grand illusions,” Nerad said. “We’re excited to welcome him to our stage.”

Reza said he can’t wait to present his show in DeKalb.

“It’s such a rare opportunity with all the busyness of our lives to take some time off and experience something that can truly make you feel like a kid again no matter your age,” he said. “Make them forget about the stresses of life, come out for a couple hours and be truly entertained.”