This summer marks my 15th performance over the past 25 years at the Owatonna Library. It was a fun bunch as always and I look forward to returning. Here is what the Newspaper published – click at bottom of this post to see the article on their website.
OWATONNA — A considerable crowd of children got their summer off to a magical start Thursday at the Owatonna Public Library, as “Magic Norm” dazzled those in attendance with his tricks.
“Oohs” and “ahs” emanated from the audience as Norm Barnhart executed a panoply of illusions, including tearing a newspaper apart in front of the group, then somehow reassembling it. He also performed card tricks, taking care to mention “the library card is the most valuable card of all,” and brought up a handful of children throughout the show to assist him in his endeavors.
“Watch, don’t blink, or you’ll miss it,” he told his audience at the start of his funny and high-energy show. “The magic happens very fast.”
He’s “a show all on his own,” said Darla Lager, the children’s librarian. With Barnhart, it’s more than merely magic, it’s “a full performance.”
The article continues —
His attire alone, a tuxedo, sends the message that his act “is something big,” she added. He also tends to pack the house, and Tuesday was no exception.
Barnhart has performed at the Owatonna Library numerous times, he said. “It’s fun, and I get to promote reading.”
He often dropped in references to books during his set Thursday. He also urged children to make use of their library.
The library steps up programming during the summer, providing opportunities for students while they’re out of school, she said. Barnhart actually performed twice in Steele County Thursday, as he visited the Blooming Prairie library in the afternoon following his morning show in Owatonna.
Barnhart first began toying with magic when he was roughly five “as a hobby, and it somehow turned into a job,” he said. “I love hearing the sound of laughter.”
He maintains a busy schedule, performing at events ranging from company outings and resorts to festivals and holiday parties. He’s also written numerous books on magic.
Mr. Norm & the “I love to Read Magic Show”
It is fun to see the excited crowds who enjoy the magic show. It is fun to be an entertainer and I like to encourage the young readers by doing a show that promotes reading. Many schools and libraries have enjoyed this program over the years. please check my website. here
Owatonna People’s Press newspaper has this article about Minnesota Magician at the Library.
