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The Yankee Express

The Historical Conjurer: 18th Century Magic Show at the Samuel Slater Experience

Step back into history for a one-of-a-kind experience of magic, illusion and mystery. The Samuel Slater Experience will be hosting a historical magic show by award-winning Professor D.R. Schreiber, the Historical Conjurer, on Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $16 per person.

As the Historical Conjurer, Professor D.R. Schreiber evokes the spirit of early magical performances and brings parlor magic back to the public. In the 18th century, conjuring (as magic was called then) emerged as a genuine art form and entertainment. Known as “professors of natural philosophy”, magicians would rent taverns, legitimate theaters or lecture halls for the exhibition and displays of legerdemain, necromancy, or what would today be called “illusion” and “magic tricks.” Top dollar would be paid by the citizens of Europe to see the latest discoveries in the science of “natural philosophy” presented by these conjurers. Today, Professor D.R. Schreiber presents an historic look at the beginnings of modern magic in his performances and exhibitions. Professor D.R. Schreiber leads his audiences on a stroll through the past centuries of conjuring entertainment. His unique presentations entertain while educating the audience about historical events, literary and cultural figures, and the science and art of conjuring.

The Samuel Slater Experience will be closing at 2:30 p.m. on July 3, to accommodate this special performance. Please purchase tickets online, at the box office, or by calling 508-461-2955. Buy both museum admission for Friday, June 3 and performance tickets for a discount. Email [email protected] with any questions. The performance will be held at the Samuel Slater Experience, 31 Ray Street, Webster, MA.