Bangor magician wins national anti-drug award

Professional illusionist Bruce Johnson of Bangor has placed third in a national anti-drug competition sponsored by the Society of American Magicians.

Professional magicians from across the country were asked to submit original magic routines with an anti-drug theme. Johnson entered the contest with an illusion he developed to illustrate the dangers of cocaine use. The award winning routine was taken from Johnson’s, “The Magic Word is No!” show, which is sponsored by ComputerLand of Bangor. Johnson tours high schools and middle schools throughout New England, using his show to deliver the facts about drug and alcohol abuse.

In 1982, Johnson was chosen as a Gold Medal Finalist by the International Brotherhood of Magicians. He has also performed at some of the top clubs and theaters in the country, including the Magic Castle in Hollywood, the Saenger Performing Arts Center in New Orleans and the New England Vaudeville Festival.