Conversations with Mark Weidhaas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Weidhaas.

Hi Mark, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Inspector Magic: The Magician Who Builds Dreams (and Stadium Scoreboards!)

Meet Mark Weidhaas: By day, a buttoned-up Professional Engineer in Englewood, Colorado.. By night and weekend, Colorado’s most sought-after magical entertainer—Inspector Magic!

From Steel Beams to Sleight of Hand

After graduating from Penn State as a Structural Engineer, Mark built a reputation designing some seriously impressive structures:

• The Jumbotron at the Air Force Academy’s Falcon Stadium,

• The roof atop the new Visitors Center at the summit of Pikes Peak,

• And the supports for a dinosaur fossil exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History in Columbus, Ohio.

In short: Science and precision were his world. But it didn’t take long for Mark to discover something extraordinary— Science could also be used to deceive the senses.

And that’s when he became a double agent.

A Secret Life Takes Shape

After stage adventures in productions like The Music Man, Guys and Dolls, Fiddler on the Roof, and 1776, Mark realized he didn’t just want to play a character— he wanted to create his own magical adventures.

With years of practice, Mark honed not only the mysteries of magic, but the true art behind it:
• Magical experiences of “WOW.”
• Storytelling.
• Comedy.
• Motivation.
• Memorable experiences.

Following in the time-honored tradition of magicians—learning from masters before becoming one himself—Mark now shares his knowledge, helping to elevate the art of magic for the next generation.

A Master of Magic (with a Real Private-Eye Badge to Prove It)

For more than 35 years, Mark has been a proud member of the Society of American Magicians—the oldest and most prestigious magic organization in the world, once led by Harry Houdini himself.

In fact, Mark made history as National President of the Society in 2010, and has spent 17 years organizing massive magic conventions that gather thousands of magicians from around the world.

You could say, when it comes to magic, he’s got top security clearance.

Missions Around the World… and Around the Corner

As Inspector Magic, Mark now brings his unique blend of comedy, magic, and inspiration to:

• Libraries (he has performed in almost every Library District in Colorado)

• Children’s birthday parties

• School assemblies

• City festivals for places like Thornton, Lakewood, Aurora, Parker, Breckenridge, and Beaver Creek

But his magic doesn’t stop there.

Under the name Mark is Mental, he provides mind-blowing mentalism and serious comedy magic for grown-ups, too—entertaining groups like:

• The National Society of Professional Engineers

• Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts

• The Colorado Rockies

• The Broadmoor Resort

Adding a Little Winter Magic

When the snow falls, Mark also steps into a legendary role—portraying a magical and authentic St. Nicholas.
Last winter alone, he performed throughout the Denver area, visited with the Governor of Colorado, and completed his third 10-day holiday tour in Hong Kong.

The Mission: Extraordinary Memories

Whether he’s dazzling schoolkids, amazing corporate executives, or bringing Christmas wonder to families, Mark’s mission as Inspector Magic remains the same:

• Turn every event into an unforgettable adventure.
• Create smiles that last long after the curtain falls.
• And maybe—just maybe—solve a few mysteries along the way.

Because with Inspector Magic…extraordinary memories are no mystery at all.

Do you have a mystery that needs solved?

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Inspector Magic: Turning Ordinary Events into Extraordinary Memories!

Bam! Pow! Mystery solved!
If you want laughter, amazement, and memories that stick for life, Inspector Magic is your guy. Forget boring shows—this is a full-throttle magical adventure your guests will never forget!

Meet Inspector Magic – The Magical Sleuth for Smiles and Learning!

Inspector Magic is the creation of me, magician Mark Weidhaas. My journey began years ago with a mystery to solve—just like you may have now—but I didn’t yet have the answer.

I was a passionate volunteer firefighter, devoted to teaching children about safety. But when I moved from North Carolina to Massachusetts, I discovered that my new hometown didn’t need volunteer help. I still felt called to educate and inspire kids… but how?

That’s when the magic happened—literally.

I had always been a fan of magic and was already performing for friends and family. What if I combined my love of teaching with the wonder of illusion? It worked. The moment I stepped onstage to blend fun with life lessons, my path became crystal clear. My life—and career—were transformed.

At the time, my kids were obsessed with “Inspector Gadget” and said, “Dad, you should call yourself Inspector Magic!” And just like that, a whimsical, slightly bumbling magical detective was born.

Now, after 35 years performing professionally, I’ve created dozens of themed magical adventures for schools, libraries, fairs, and birthday parties—all packed with laughs, learning, and unforgettable fun.

So if you’re wondering how to make your next event amazing… mystery solved! I guarantee I’ve got just the right magical adventure for your group. And if I don’t, I’ll create one just for you.

Let Inspector Magic take the case—because every great event deserves a little magic and a lot of fun!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Creating Life-Long Memories Is No Mystery for Inspector Magic

Looking for unforgettable fun? With Inspector Magic, creating lifelong memories isn’t a trick—it’s what I do best! Get ready for a magical adventure your guests will be talking about long after the party’s over.

A lot of magicians and entertainers claim they’re the best—the funniest, the most magical, or the most talented. And sure, those things matter. But here’s the real secret:

It’s not about the entertainer. It’s about YOU and your guests.

The Real Magic Happens When:

• The birthday child feels like a total superstar—and can’t stop talking about their magical day.

• Schoolkids leave the assembly buzzing with excitement and big dreams.

• Families have so much fun at your fair they’re already planning to come back tomorrow—and bringing friends!

That’s the magic I guarantee every time. The most fun. The happiest memories. The biggest smiles.

So… How Can I Be So Sure?
Because an Inspector Magic show isn’t just a bunch of random tricks. It’s a full-blown magical adventure, packed with:

• Storylines that pull you into the action.

• Characters you root for and laugh along with.

• Production value that feels like a live-action movie unfolding right in front of you! (And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good movie?)

A performance by Inspector Magic will create wonder, and excitement for your kids through magical illusions, intense comedy, and ventriloquism. It’s something they and all their friends have never seen before. And, it’s perfect for all ages.​

Imagine how good your kids are going to feel when their friends tell them they had the best birthday party ever!

Not only that, but because you hired an experienced, engaging entertainer for the party, you’ll get to sit back, relax and enjoy the show, too.

​Shh..here’s a secret: The Inspector does it all for you! It doesn’t get any better than that!

Choose Your Own Magical Adventure

Every event is a little different—and that’s why I’ve got dozens of themed shows ready to go! Whether you want:

• To teach important lessons (without anyone feeling like it’s homework),

• To celebrate a big milestone with extra sparkle,

• Or just to throw the most epic event ever…

I’ve got the perfect adventure ready to roll. And if you need something totally new? Mystery solved! I’ll create a custom show just for you.

With Inspector Magic, creating lifelong memories isn’t just possible—it’s guaranteed.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Books open doors. Kindness opens hearts. Magic opens dreams.

Inspiring Young Minds: Sharing Kindness, Magic, and the Power of Reading

Today’s youth are filled with curiosity, energy, and a desire to explore the world around them. At every Inspector Magic show, I aim to do more than amaze with tricks and illusions—I work to inspire young minds with messages that can last a lifetime.

Reading: The Secret Door to Endless Possibilities

Throughout my shows, I often weave in the magic of reading. My very first public show was at the Brewster Ladies Library on Cape Cod in 1989, and I have a strong desire to support libraries in their mission. I remind kids (and parents!) that libraries aren’t just buildings full of books—they’re gateways to adventure, knowledge, and imagination.

After an astounding presentation with a magical book, I share this simple truth with them:

“The more books you read as young people, the more prosperous your future can be.” Reading is the first—and maybe greatest—magic trick they can master. Every page turned is a step toward a brighter, more exciting future.

2025 Theme: Kindness is Magic

This year, I’m especially proud to introduce a brand-new motivational closing to my shows, focused on something the world always needs more of: Kindness.

To bring the message home, I share a beautiful quote from Cinderella’s mother:

“Where there is kindness, there is goodness. Where there is goodness, there is magic.”

As I speak these words, a truly magical event unfolds live on stage—showing the audience that kindness itself can spark real magic.

And then I challenge them with something simple but powerful: “Be Kind, be the Magic.”

Spreading Magic Beyond the Stage

By the end of every performance, my hope is that each young person walks away not just entertained, but inspired:

• To read more books and fuel their dreams.

• To share kindness in small ways every day.

• To recognize that they have the power to make the world a little more magical, simply by doing good.

Because true magic doesn’t live just in wands, capes, or card tricks. It lives inside each of us—especially when we choose to make a difference.

Magic Camp helps youth Discover Magic

Sharing kindness and magic is also a new exciting program I am presenting. I have been teaching magic workshops for school students for dozens of years. This summer, I am offering a full magic camp:

Unleash Your Inner Magician at Rocky Mountain Magic Academy!

Are you ready to unlock a world of wonder and excitement? Welcome to the Rocky Mountain Magic Academy, where we inspire young minds to explore the fascinating art of magic. This summer, we are thrilled to announce our new Magic Instructional Camps, designed specifically for aspiring magicians to discover their talents, develop their skills, and most importantly, have a blast!

At Rocky Mountain Magic Academy, we believe that magic is more than just tricks and illusions; it’s an incredible way to build confidence, enhance creativity, and develop essential life skills. Our camps are based on the acclaimed Discover Magic curriculum, a well-structured program that makes learning magic fun and achievable for all ages.

What is the Discover Magic Curriculum?

Discover Magic is a revolutionary program that focuses on teaching the fundamentals of magic in an engaging and interactive manner. The curriculum includes a variety of magical skills, from sleight of hand to mentalism, and is designed to cater to various experience levels, making it perfect for beginners and those who want to take their magical skills to the next level.

Why Choose Rocky Mountain Magic Academy?

1. **Expert Instructors**

At our camps, participants will be guided by experienced magicians who are not only experts in their craft but also passionate educators. They will provide personalized instruction and mentorship to help each camper develop their unique style and enhance their magical abilities. Our instructors understand that a supportive environment is crucial for learning, and they strive to make every camper feel confident and empowered.

2. **Engaging Curriculum**

Our Magic Academy Camps include a well-rounded curriculum that emphasizes practice, performance, and creativity. Each day, campers will learn new skills, create their own routines, and receive constructive feedback from both instructors and peers. The curriculum not only focuses on the mechanics of magic but also on the art of presentation. Campers will develop valuable skills such as storytelling and audience engagement, enabling them to captivate any crowd.

3. **Variety of Camp Themes**

To keep things exciting, we offer a variety of camp themes throughout the summer. Whether your child is interested in card tricks, illusions, mentalism, or stage performance, there’s something for everyone! Each week, campers will engage in hands-on activities, collaborate on group performances, and enjoy fun-filled games that reinforce what they’ve learned.

What to Expect at Camp

When campers join us at Rocky Mountain Magic Academy, they can look forward to:

– **Daily Magic Lessons:** Each day begins with an engaging lesson that introduces new magical techniques and concepts.

– **Practice Time:** Campers will have ample opportunity to practice their newfound skills, helping to build muscle memory and confidence.

– **Performance Opportunities:** Throughout the camp, participants will have the chance to showcase their magic in front of friends and family during our exciting talent show!

– **Magical Merchandise:** Each camper will receive a special magic kit that includes all the necessary props and materials needed to perform mind-blowing tricks.

– **Friendship and Collaboration:** Magic is best experienced with others! Campers will work in pairs or small groups, fostering teamwork and friendships that can last a lifetime.

Building Confidence and Life Skills

Learning magic is not just about performing tricks; it’s about developing crucial life skills. Our Rocky Mountain Magic Academy Camps provide a safe space for campers to step out of their comfort zones, overcome fears of public speaking, and build self-esteem. As they learn to master their craft, they’ll gain a sense of accomplishment that translates to all aspects of their lives.

Camp Details

– **Location:** The Rocky Mountain Magic Academy is available now at your afterschool program, local community facility or library. We provide a safe and inspiring environment for our magic camps.

– **Dates:** Our camps will run daily or weekly in 2025, accommodating busy summer schedules.

– **Ages:** Our camps are designed for children ages 7-12. Our Magic Explorer’s Camp is designed for children ages 5 – 8.

– **Registration:** Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early to secure your child’s spot for an unforgettable summer!

WE NEED YOUR HELP – do you know a location where the Rocky Mountain Magic Academy would fit in your community? Let us know who to contact so we can provide this program to YOUR neighborhood!

Then, Join Us for an Enchanting Summer!

Pricing:

• Libraries or Birthday Silver Package: $425
• Birthday Gold Package: $495
• Birthday Platinum Package: $695
• Character Building School Assemblies: $475
• MAGIC: IMPOSSIBLE Stage Illusion Fundraisers: $1,500 to $2,500

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.inspectormagic.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magic.colorado
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@weidhaas
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/inspector-magic-colorado-springs

Image Credits
Ali G Studios