Magic Patriot
Patrick “PJ” Johnson
Control is an illusion and that illusion is what controls us.”
-Anonymous
Growing up in Nebraska, I was a student of magic. Most of my friends went on to college or to get ‘normal jobs’. I tried my hand at the traditional route, but opted for a more adventurous option, moving to Las Vegas. While I enjoyed performing, I felt that I needed to do something a little more meaningful. While some magicians I knew traveled around on cruise ships or flying to beautiful Pacific Islands, I decided to join the military and let them pay for my travels. Courtesy of the Department of Defense, I have had the opportunity to perform in exotic locales such as Afghanistan, Kuwait, Egypt, and Israel, and Fort Irwin, CA, keeping myself and my comrades in Arms entertained in between missions. The time spent between deployments overseas is spent at home in Fabulous Las Vegas, where I am able to focus on perfecting routines, and preparing for the next mission.
Skills
Many of the skills I have, are ones I cannot talk about. The military skills are somewhat boring to discuss, and frankly, when it comes to magic, a magician is not supposed to divulge their secrets. I am expert in manipulation, dexterity, with both cards and coins. I focus on making miracles happen right in front of you.
Education
As I mentioned earlier, I grew up going to school in Nebraska. I went to college there as well and then moved out to Sin City where I learned a lot about life and then even more so in the military. What did I study in magic? Trust me, you don’t want to know. Just enjoy the show…
Awards & MOMENTS
There are many memories I have. These are the ones that stick out in my two careers.
- House Magician at The Stardust in Las Vegas
- Opened and ran magic shops in Nebraska and Las Vegas
- Received Nevada Army Honor Guard of the Year Award
- Part of the storied OPFOR (opposing forces) training unit that trained troops to go to Afghanistan and Iraq
- Tour to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom with the 221st Calvary
- Deployment to Egypt as a Mortuary Affairs Specialist of the Multinational Force and Observers Teams’ peacekeeping mission
Tools
These are some of the tools I use.
TIMING
ADAPTABILITY
THE FORCE
