Magician Tommy James Amazed At Being Named 2010 International Family Performer of the Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Smithfield, Rhode Island, United States of America (Free-Press-Release.com) August 18, 2010 -- While some wizards have the ability to levitate in thin air, professional magician Tommy James of Smithfield, R.I. now uniquely finds himself the one in disbelief ─ but with good reason for flying high.

The Cumberland, R.I. native has been named the 2010 International Family Performer of the Year, a prestigious honor bestowed upon him by KIDabra International (http://www.kidabra.com), the world's leading association of family and kidshow performers. James is only the second recipient to have ever received the international award after being independently judged as among the best at his craft for entertainment value, originality, creativity and personal likeability.

James received the award this past weekend to a standing ovation before hundreds of his peers from around the globe at the association's 19th annual conference held in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. In attendance, were many of the world's top family entertainers including renown magicians, clowns and puppeteers.

James was only one of eight performers selected to compete for this year's award.

"I still can't believe it," says James."I am overwhelmed to have this title because it is such an honor. The competition was very nerve racking having to go up against some excellent competition. After months of preparation, I'm glad it is over. After I come down from the clouds, I plan to get some much-needed sleep."

James had to pass two rigorous rounds of competition at the conference which included performing the best material from his magic shows for a live children's audience, followed by hundreds of his conference-attending peers, and a panel of judges representing some of the world's most respected family entertainers. One of the judges was an assistant to the late, legendary magician Harry Blackstone Jr.

Tommy James began his professional magic career at 14 years old, performing for local community groups and libraries. Now after more than 30 years of performing experience, James performs approximately 400 shows each year for schools, youth groups and family gatherings across the New England area.

"There is nothing else on Earth I'd rather be doing," says James." I love entertaining and making people laugh."

The father of two boys, James also is a regular performer on Safe Kids & Friends, an award-winning local access TV show. James uses his magic to teach safety topics over the air and to the children in the studio audience. Currently the show airs on Saturday mornings, statewide on Cox Cable Channel 13.

Additional information about Tommy James is available at http://www.tommyjamesmagic.com.

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