Playbill has partnered with Inspired to create and amplify stories of inspiration that advocate for young people across the country to have access to arts and cultural experiences. The following article is written by the team at Situation Project and adapted from their online publication Inspired. Click here to learn more.

Magic has always been about creating wonder, but Mario the Maker Magician takes it one step further. His show is a one-of-a-kind mix of DIY robotics, heartfelt storytelling, and traditional magic that inspires kids to see themselves as creators. Mario’s journey from a traditional magician to a touring theatre sensation is a story of reinvention, family collaboration, and a deep commitment to making creativity accessible to all.

The Origin of the Maker Magician

Mario has been performing magic for over 20 years, but as he tells it, “Several years into my career, working private events throughout New York City as ‘Mario the Magician,’ it became clear that the typical magic wasn’t enough to take the show where we dreamed of going.”

The breakthrough came when he combined his love of tinkering with his magic routines. “The maker aspect was the answer,” Mario shares. “The tinkering and DIY electronics I played around with in my downtime started to seep into my magic. This fusion took the show to new heights of inventiveness and purpose.”

Before long, Mario’s show was filled with handmade robotics, cardboard inventions, and interactive elements that connected with audiences of all ages. “The response was incredible,” Mario says. “It became clear that this direction really resonated with people—both young and old.”

A Family-Driven Production

For Mario, the magic doesn’t stop on stage—it extends into his home. His wife Katie is much more than a partner in life; she’s also the show’s producer, marketing director, and PR powerhouse. Their kids, Gigi (13) and Bear (10), have grown up surrounded by the show’s magic, helping shape it as much as it has shaped them.

“We’ve raised our children with our show,” Mario shares. “They’ve grown up together—the show and our kids! The parenting journey has taught us so much about how to encourage kids to learn new things, even when those things feel difficult. That’s where our show’s message of ‘never give up’ comes from.”

Empowering Young Makers

One of the most important aspects of Mario’s show is its accessibility. “The entire show aesthetic is built around materials and items that kids can easily get their hands on—cardboard, tin cans, and even the robotic elements are made from inexpensive, easy-to-learn components,” Mario explains. “I want kids to leave the show and feel empowered to try something new, to make something themselves.”

Mario takes that commitment to accessibility even further through his “Every Child Deserves a Seat at the Theater” initiative. This program provides donated tickets to families in need, giving more kids the chance to experience the magic of his show. “So far, we’ve been able to match well over 100 seats with amazing families,” Mario shares. “It’s been incredible to see the response.”

Inspiring Beyond Entertainment

For Mario, the key to creating a lasting impact lies in connecting with kids on their level. “I need to be silly, to not take myself too seriously,” he says. “I create a foundation of play and freedom, and once I’ve earned their trust, I can weave storytelling into the rest of the show.”

Through magic and humor, Mario brings the stories of inspirational figures like Nikola Tesla and Alexander Calder to life. He also shared lessons from his own journey, including the impact of his high school humanities teacher, Mrs. Rinello. “Magic lets me punctuate these stories in a way that keeps the audience on their toes,” Mario says. “It’s a language that helps me connect with them.”

Making the Holidays Magical

This holiday season, Mario the Maker Magician is lighting up Soho Playhouse in New York City with a show that’s perfect for families looking to spend time together. “The holiday season in New York City is unlike anything else,” Mario shares. “We feel so lucky to be here, bringing families an experience that’s just as much for the youngest members as it is for the oldest.”

Mario also hopes to offer a little perspective during the often consumer-driven holidays. “At the end of the show, I tell kids, ‘Pretend you’re holding the biggest, best toy you’ve ever had. That toy can break. Someone can take it away from you. But if you learn how to make something, no one can ever take that from you.’”

With Mario’s message of creativity, perseverance, and togetherness, his show is the perfect addition to any family’s holiday plans.

Catch Mario the Maker Magician at Soho Playhouse through December 29. Tickets are available at mariothemagician.com. Don’t miss the chance to add a little extra magic—and a lot of inspiration—to your season!

Inspired was created by Situation Project 501(c)3.