About Michael Kent
A self-proclaimed “smartass,” Michael Kent succeeds at changing the old saying that “nobody likes a smartass.”
A resident of Columbus, Ohio, Comedian and Magician Michael Kent gives the ancient art of magic a facelift with an irreverent and often satirical comedic spin. Michael spent his younger years learning magic to make friends and meet girls. After graduating from college, it became his job. Michael studied Communication, Linguistics and Theater at The Ohio State University and has studied at the world-famous Second City comedy theater in Chicago. He has performed for audiences all over the globe from Hollywood to US Troops serving overseas in 13 different countries. He’s been seen in hundreds of colleges all over the country in as many as 40 states in a single year, met lots of people — even wrote a book. After all this, he still feels like more of a Professional Smartass than a Magician.
A Modern Day Magician
Michael was named Entertainer of the Year in Campus Activities Magazine and Magician of the Year by The Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA). Cleveland.com has listed Michael as one of Ohio's top 30 "Famously Funny" comedians along with Drew Carey, Dave Chappelle and Bob Hope. He was featured on the season premiere of the hit television show "Penn & Teller: Fool Us!"
In a style reminiscent of a late-night talk show, Michael invites the audience to laugh with him at the absurdity of a modern-day magician. He combines his sarcastic sense of humor with mind-blowing magic in a way that seems to let the audience “in on the joke.” This style has made Michael one of the college market’s top comedy-magicians, earning him loyal fans around the country in the process. As he tours college campuses all over the country, Michael’s audiences are experiencing what its like when a stand up comic performs (and occasionally pokes fun at) the art of magic.
“The crowd participation couldn’t have been better. It’s always fun to see an artist make fun of his own genre. His ‘psychic’ abilities were hilarious!”
– Christa, Central Michigan University
“Michael Kent is a master at getting laughs. His smartass personality gives his magic an edge that keeps fans engaged, impressed and energized.”
– Ellusionist.com
“One of the most respected and in-demand performers in the campus market. ”
– Campus Activities Magazine
“The best we’ve ever had. I’m proud that you’re from Columbus.”
– Jungle Jack Hanna, TV’s Wildlife Advocate and Dir. Emeritus of The Columbus Zoo
“I saw Michael in South Korea, and it was definitely an awesome show. The story about he and his dad still brings a tear (and a laugh) to my eyes.”
– Robert, US Army
“Kent is brilliant and brutally funny.”
– The Joplin Globe