Library Summer Reading Show 2026

Unearth the Magic! The 2026 Summer Reading Magic Show Featuring:

A dinosaur-powered, laugh-out-loud magic show that helps kids dig into reading and perfectly matches the 2026 national library theme, “Unearth a Story.”

Partial Library Client List:

“Here at Central Elementary, we want every student to see reading as a doorway to confidence and lifelong learning, The Magic In You Reading Show helps students connect books with joy, imagination, and effort—and that kind of positive momentum that Jamahl presents in this Assembly supports what we’re building every day in our classrooms.”
Jamahl Keyes performing a motivational magic routine for students, highlighting social emotional learning and goal-setting during an Indiana school assembly.

Success By the Numbers: Why Library Magic Shows Work

Great Statistics About Magic Shows & Libraries

Interactive programs like magic shows can increase library event attendance by up to 45%.

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Libraries report their highest turnout for Summer Reading kickoffs and finales when the event includes a live performance such as a magic show.
— Public Library Association Program Engagement Survey

Children are 68% more likely to check out books after attending a themed live program.

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Performances tied to reading themes (dinosaurs, science, magic, etc.) significantly boost post-event circulation, especially in the children’s section.
American Library Association Youth Engagement Report

Libraries that include live events see a 27% increase in repeat family visits during Summer Reading months.

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Families that attend one interactive program often return for more events—and increase checkouts.
— Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)

Bring your 2026 Summer Reading Program to life with Jamahl Keyes – The Magic Comic.
Unearth the Magic!” is a high-energy, interactive library summer reading magic show that blends:

A lovable character kids instantly connect with

That keeps all ages fully engaged.

Encouraging kids to dig into books, history, and their own stories.

Celebrating 250 years of American stories.

Perfect for public libraries, bookmobiles, and library branches looking to boost attendance and circulation for Summer 2026.

BEFORE:
“We wanted a summer reading kick-off that felt exciting for families, but we didn’t want a complicated setup or a program that only appealed to kids.”

AFTER:
“Jamahl Keyes was the perfect fit. The show was fast-paced, funny, and engaging for all ages—kids, teens, and adults. His team handled everything smoothly, and he even worked in reminders that brought attention back to our library programs. Families left smiling and asking, ‘When is the next event?’”

📈 Event Success by the Numbers: Why Comedy + Magic Always Wins

Real statistics that show how The Magic Comic experience enhances audience satisfaction.

Live entertainment boosts event attendance by up to 65% (EventMB, 2024)

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74% of attendees say interactive performers make events more memorable (Eventbrite, 2023).

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Shows with comedy  are the most booked live event genre in North America (Statista, 2024)

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Events featuring clean comedians report 30% higher family turnout (MeetingsNet, 2023).

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89% of event planners prefer performers who handle their own technical setup (EventProSource, 2024).

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Magician Jamahl Keyes performing a live comedy magic show in Indianapolis

BEFORE (What we were worried about):
“Summer reading kick-offs can be tough—families are busy, attention spans are short, and we needed something that would pull in a crowd without creating extra work for staff.”


AFTER (What happened):
“Jamahl Keyes delivered exactly what we needed. The room was packed, the audience stayed engaged the full hour, and the message tied perfectly into our summer reading theme. Best of all—his setup was smooth and self-contained, and families left excited to check out books and come back for more programs.”

What You Get with The Magic Motivator Jamahl Keyes School Assemblies:

Engaging K-12 Assembly Programs That Combine Magic, Humor & Message

  • Age-appropriate content for elementary, middle, and high school students

  • Educational themes: leadership, anti-bullying, resilience, goal setting

  • Interactive magic & comedy that grabs attention fast
  • Fully self-contained – no hassle for your staff
  • Audience participation that boosts retention

Indianapolis Magician FAQ: What Every Event Planner Should Know

Discover expert answers from Indianapolis’ Most Requested Magician, Jamahl Keyes – The Magic Comic, to help you book a show your guests will never forget.

The cost of hiring a magician in Indianapolis varies depending on factors like the type of event, the duration of the performance, and specific requirements. Contact us for a personalized quote.

When you contact me or a member of my team, we’ll ask just a few questions which will allow me to make some tailor a show and service that will make your event magical and memorable.

Jamahl is an international magician entertainer who performs all over the United States and the world. He not only performs locally in his hometown of Indianapolis he is also in demand performing his comedy magic in Europe, Japan and South America…To name a few. 

This is sooooo important especially in today’s day and age when people are offended by the least little things. It is vital that you make sure that the

performer’s material is absolutely family friendly entertainment or trouble brews for you on the horizon.

True Story:

I recently did a stage show for a Fortune 500 company who had also hired a comedian. The comedian was hilarious and the audience loved him but then he let a few very minor swear words slip out. In fact, I didn’t even catch them… but the wife of one of the company’s big-wig dealers did. She

stormed out of the show and dragged her husband with her.

The executive shot an extremely upset look at the poor event planner. The event planner came up to me and said, “Oh great, now I have to spend tomorrow smoothing all this out. That’s just what I need.”

He had asked the comedian if his material was clean without politics and the comedian told him that it was. It wasn’t.

Bottom line: You need to not only ask whether the performer’s material is

clean, you have to insist and emphasize that it MUST be clean. If possible, get some type of proof, in the form of a testimonial letter or videos that the material is clean. (This is why I include a testimonial letter and videos from for that exact reason!)

Theater Bookings can be taken up to 18 months in advance of the event. While smaller event dates like parties, festivals and special events book up fast. It does not hurt to check availability as soon as you have a date in mind as many key dates do tend to get booked up way in advance.

There are not only quotes and comments on this page. But Jamahl has a PDF book of letters and video testimonials that he can provide. All you need to do is request for it. 

That would spoil the surprise. Suffice to say it’s all great stuff! and nothing cheesy. Jamahl’s experience performing for every age and demographic on the planet shows that he is able to match his magic show to the needs and expectations of his clients.

This is an important question so I’m glad you are interested in this one. I carry a $500,000 public liability insurance policy. This gives us both peace of mind, in the very rare chance that something unfortunate should happen. If your venue needs to see my insurance certificate, just let me know, and I’ll send it across to you.

Magicians set their prices based on experience. Most people get a pay raise at work. It’s the same with magic entertainers. It’s always going to be more expensive to hire someone who’s been performing for decades than someone who only got started a year or two ago.

As such, it’s likely that a cheaper magician is less experienced. They might be happy simply to have a fresh audience to practice in front of.

If you’re happy to take that risk, that’s fine. However, you probably don’t want to do that for events where you only get one chance to get it right.

I’m long past the practicing stage. When you hire me, you get a polished performer you can rely on. I know instinctively how to get the most from your guests and how to make sure your event is the best it can be.

I’m not the cheapest, but I’m confident the price I set is fair. I know it is because I perform at that price regularly and continue to get great feedback, as shown throughout my website and marketing materials.

It’s a simple process.

1. CONNECT
Get in touch, fill out my Show Inquiry form. It’s really useful to know

  • date
  • time
  • venue address
  • number of guests
  • what is the event for

2. DISCUSS
Me or someone on my team will reach out to you and explain what I provide and what would work best for your event. We can even set up a short video call if you want to go through a few things in more detail.

3. AGREE
Once you are happy to go ahead I’ll send you a link to a short form so that I can collect any other outstanding details and your contact details.

And then, I’ll email you a booking agreement as a PDF document for you to check the details and pay the booking fee.

4. ENJOY
Once you’ve confirmed that everything is correct and paid the booking fee, you’re booked in and can start looking forward to your event.

Of course, if you get stuck at any stage you can always reach out to me on 317.296.6040

Finally, I (or someone on my team) will always get in touch with you a few days before the event to touch base and double check everything.

I have a show that in Theater is called a “Silent Act” which means the magic is performed without words backdropped by 5 elements Theatrics, Miming, Improv, Comedy and Music. This is why I have been able to perform my brand of Comedy Magic in 9 different countries and counting. I have even been ask to do my full 45 Min “Silent Act” for a few clients.

Jamahl Keyes is one of the most requested magician in Indianapolis, known for his unique blend of comedy and mind-boggling magic

Top 5 Reasons Event Planners, Agents & Producers Love Working with The Magic Comic – Jamahl Keyes

Tired of Boring Events That Fall Flat?

Jamahl Keyes transforms average gatherings into unforgettable experiences filled with laughter, amazement, and audience connection—customized to your event’s purpose and personality.

With over 20 years of experience entertaining theaters, corporations, and Fortune 500 companies worldwide, Jamahl knows how to read a room, engage every crowd, and keep your schedule on track.


Why it matters: You get a reliable pro who makes you look great to your clients, guests, and executives.

Comedy that’s hilarious, smart, and completely appropriate—no awkward moments, no offensive jokes.


Why it matters: You can book with confidence, knowing every guest—from interns to CEOs, from kids to grandparents—will be entertained and impressed.

Jamahl brings professional sound, lighting, and a stage-ready backdrop for any venue size.

Why it matters: You don’t have to worry about technical headaches or hidden rental costs—just plug, play, and enjoy a seamless show.

Every performance is tailored to match your theme, audience, and event objectives.


Why it matters: Whether it’s energizing a corporate conference, warming up a gala, or engaging families at a community event, Jamahl makes your message the star.

From national TV appearances to multiple entertainment awards, Jamahl’s proven track record shines both on stage and on screen.


Why it matters: You’re hiring a recognized professional whose name adds credibility, prestige, and excitement to your event.

🎬 As Seen On: The Magic Comic’s National TV Appearances:

As Seen On TV:

Watch this exciting highlight reel featuring The Magic Comic – Jamahl Keyes, showcasing his national TV appearances, live stage moments, and unforgettable comedy-magic performances. From television specials to headline shows, this montage captures why Jamahl Keyes is one of Indianapolis’ most requested entertainers, blending mind-blowing magic, clean comedy, and contagious energy that leaves every audience amazed and smiling.

The Staler Brothers Sparked Comments:

The Magic Comic Jamahl Keyes posing with The Statler Brothers after performing on their Family Channel TV show, celebrating a night of clean comedy and family entertainment.

‘If you’re not clapping your hands, stomping your feet, or laughing throughout Jamahl’s show — check your pulse!’

Jamahl was truly the perfect addition to our TV Show & tour.”
The Statler Brothers

Service Areas

Serving Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, Fort Wayne, South Bend, Lafayette, and surrounding Midwest cities.
Jamahl Keyes – The Magic Comic is available for theaters, corporate events, fundraisers, and festivals nationwide.

Google Verified Reviews

Service Areas

Serving Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, Fort Wayne, South Bend, Lafayette, and surrounding Midwest cities.
Jamahl Keyes – The Magic Comic is available for theaters, corporate events, fundraisers, and festivals nationwide.