Today we’d like to introduce you to Erik Helgeson
Hi Erik, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My passion for performing magic came later than it does for most magicians. I’ve met many talented performers tell me stories of receiving their first magic kit early in their childhood. You would think starting magic at age 17, when most people that age are interested in cars, movies, music, or sports, would make me feel self-conscious; but the opposite was true. I finally discovered something I knew that I loved. I found something I didn’t know I was looking for. Magic quickly consumed my life and I found myself watching online magic videos, reading books, and even traveling around my home county to practice street magic. My high school classmates became my first audience, as I constantly tested new tricks. No matter how much I learned or practiced, I just wanted to do more! My passion quickly landed me some exciting opportunities including performing at Yale University Medical School and Pine Orchard Yacht Club in Branford Connecticut, both at age 18.
After graduating from college in Salt Lake City, the idea of doing magic full-time became more of a goal than a dream. While I do have other aspirations in life, pursuing magic as always been in the back of mine. I built an online presence with a dedicated Instagram page, a GigSalad profile, a Google business account, and even purchased a domain for my own website. It’s a work in progress, but what isn’t, ya know? I’ve performed from the comfort of people’s living rooms for birthday parties all the way up to large-scale corporate events in front of hundreds of people. As of now, I typically average about 2 shows a month and would love to see that number rise. For me, performing magic isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about creating meaningful and memorable experiences for my audiences. I get so excited to share the craft I have grown to love.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s hard to say. I wouldn’t characterize my journey as either rough or smooth. I’ve been doing magic for almost 10 years, but for most of that time, it was just a hobby—something that took a backseat to school and work. So in a way, the road wasn’t rough or smooth because it wasn’t the path I was actively pursuing. That said, there were certainly learning curves—like engaging and connecting with an audience, overcoming stage fright, and developing a natural, confident stage presence.
However, since I’ve started doing magic as more of a solo venture, I’ve seen firsthand how challenging it is to compete against established entertainers and build a reputation from the ground up. Depending on how big the magic scene is in your community, losing gigs and clients to already established entertainers isn’t uncommon. Learning how to market and brand myself is a new skill set that is in development for me.
Finally, transitioning as a high school close up magician to a polished and sophisticated stage performer took a lot of trial and error. Ironically, the biggest struggle isn’t even executing the tricks correctly—it’s making sure my clients are happy with their decision to hire me and that their expectations are met. At the end of the day, magic isn’t just about fooling people; it’s about creating an experience that’s memorable and worth every penny.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In short, my job is to amaze and wow my audience with magic they will remember for the rest of their lives.
I offer a blend of close-up strolling magic, perfect for cocktail hours and intimate gatherings, alongside captivating stage illusions for larger audiences, featuring everything from mind reading to impossible predictions. Most of my experience is in smaller event settings and home shows including bachelor/bachlorette parties, anniversaries, birthdays, and more. I’ve also performed in higher profile settings including local business in my Connecticut hometown, Yale University, a Yacht Club, The University of Utah, Applause Technologies Inc, and the City of Syracuse, Utah.
I think being a young entrepreneur naturally draws attention. People see that I’m a driven performer in my twenties, working to build something unique. When they find out I’m a magician, it sparks curiosity, leading to conversations and connections. What I’m most proud of isn’t just my ability to perform magic, it’s my commitment to sharing my passion with others. There’s something incredibly rewarding about giving people a moment of pure wonder, where, even just for a second, the impossible feels real. That’s the kind of experience I strive to create every time I step in front of an audience.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I’ve loved Salt Lake City since the moment I landed here in 2016. My acceptance to the University of Utah is what inspired me to come here in the first place. Having lived here for 9 years, I like to say “I’m increasingly from Utah.” As an avid skier, it didn’t take long for me to fit right in! I love the outdoor lifestyle while also having the the metropolitan scene so close together. Beyond the landscape, it’s the people and the history that have made this place feel like home. The kindness of the community and Utah’s unique cultural heritage give Salt Lake City a character that sets it apart.
It’s not as noisy or fast-paced or busy as Manhattan or Boston, but that’s part of its charm. Salt Lake City is impressive and special in its own way—though its uniqueness isn’t always obvious at first glance. To me, it’s a place of hidden gems, rich experiences, and a sense of belonging that continues to grow the longer I’m here. I hope it keeps that unique character for many more years.
Pricing:
- Quotes can vary depending on the scale of the event, length of performance, and travel time. If you’re interested in hiring me, reach out and we can make it happen!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gigsalad.com/erikthemagician
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikthemagician/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erik.helgeson.14
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ErikTheMagician
- Other: https://erikhelgeson.com
