Illusionists to perform at Portales church

PORTALES — It is magic with a message and it is for a good cause.

Illusionists David and Teesha Laflin, from Denver, Colorado, will perform at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at Third and Kilgore Church of Christ.

The performance will raise money for the New Mexico Christian Children's Home (NMCCH), according to Pastor David Heflin of the church.

Heflin said he first heard of the duo when he received a postcard for their performances, adding he never heard of "Christian illusionists" before.

"It just sort of intrigued me... as a way to reach out to the community and do something positive for the community," said Heflin. "They're really good at what they do. They do it in a way that's very friendly and engaging."

David Laflin also described the wholesome approach to his and his wife's show combining Las Vegas-style illusions with a religious message.

"(It's for us to) be able to share a message of hope," said Laflin. "For us, what gives a purpose and meaning to life. We also do have a place that we do share from our hearts."

Heflin, who saw the Laflins perform in Roswell, said they have a naturalistic approach when incorporating Christian themes to the show.

"It doesn't come off as heavy-handed," said Heflin. "As far as the message... they spoke a lot about struggles in life, struggles with sin. They use the illusions to illustrate that feeling of being trapped. It emphasizes hope. We're not alone, we have Christ, and they do it very naturally."

Laflin, who has had a passion for magic since he was a child, said he and his wife began entertaining as a duo in 2002 while doing mission work in India.

"When we went to India, tricks were kind of an effort to break through language barriers," said Laflin.

In addition to traveling, what makes the experience rewarding is seeing the audience engaged, Laflin said.

"The most rewarding thing is to be able to look out and see families with a smile on their face and enjoying the experience together," said Laflin, "and hear people's stories on how the message impacted their life."

Needless to say, the message fits right in with the mission of the children's home.

"That's good because we are a Christian children's home," said NMCCH Director of Public Relations Tom Pittmon, "and to have it really family oriented. It's very much a family-oriented, kid-oriented event. I imagine they will kind of use the kids for some of the tricks. I think it's gonna be awesome. They involve the kids and they invite the people (to come to the stage). The kids — they're more than willing to be volunteers."

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 17 and under, and are available at Third and Kilgore Church of Christ.

Portales businesses can also sponsor the event by calling the church at 356-6150 to receive free children's tickets and sell tickets. Sponsorships include $250 for 20 free children's tickets and $500 for 50 free children's tickets.

As of Thursday, Creighton's Town and Country sponsored the event.

According to Owner Leslie Creighton, 30 children's tickets are still available at a first come, first serve basis at the store with $8 adult tickets available.

"I thought it was different, intriguing and something good for people to see," said Creighton. "That's always a good choice when you can do something for the children's home. It's a way to give back."