…we knew we had to chat with Leif when we saw the excitement and wide-eyed wonder his magic shows inspire in children of all ages…
This summer, as part of the ORL’s Summer Reading Club Colour Your Summer, branches across the region are lighting up with laughter and joy thanks to magician Leif David. His high-energy, interactive show is delighting audiences of all ages. We caught up with Leif to learn how a library helped launch his magical career—and how he’s now inspiring a new generation of curious readers.
Q: You’ve said your passion for magic began at age 8 after a visit to your local library. Can you share that story—and how it influences your shows today?
When I was eight, my uncle gave me a magic kit for Christmas. I was instantly hooked. I spent hours practicing the tricks and wanted to learn more—so I headed to the library. I checked out stacks of books on magic, and I still remember the librarian who went out of her way to bring in books from across the system just for me. That experience showed me the true power of libraries. It helped shape my love of magic—and learning.
Q: You perform more than 250 shows a year across B.C., many of them in libraries. What keeps you inspired to connect with kids, year after year?
Magic is all about revealing something unexpected—it encourages us to see the world differently. That sense of surprise and discovery is what keeps me going. I want young readers to feel curious about whatever excites them. I always tell them: check out a book on something you love. You never know where it might lead. That’s how it all started for me.
Q: Audience participation is a big part of your show. How do you think that interactive style affects kids’ enthusiasm for reading and learning?
When kids help create the magic, they’re no longer just watching—they’re involved. Especially in today’s screen-filled world, live experiences are more important than ever. For many children, my show might be their first time seeing magic—or any kind of live performance. When they get to take part in the action, it sticks with them. That excitement can lead them to explore their own interests—and maybe even back to the library.
To learn more about Leif and his magical journey, please visit www.BCmagician.com—and don’t forget to check your local ORL branch for showtimes and more Summer Reading Club fun!
