The world of magic is filled with performers, creators, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts—but some magicians become leaders who help shape the future of the art. John Sturk is one of those people.
A Chicago-based magician, musician, comedian, educator, and longtime member of the Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.), Sturk served as the organization’s 107th National President during 2023–2024.
From Michigan State to Chicago Magic
John’s journey into magic began while he was a student at Michigan State University. He became involved with the local magic community and began performing for campus events, birthday parties, and other audiences.
After college, his career took him to Chicago, where he worked for Fun Incorporated, a major magic manufacturer. His interests expanded beyond traditional magic into improvisational comedy and music.
That combination of magic, comedy, improvisation, and music became an important part of John’s unique performing style.
He eventually became a co-founder of the Chicago Magic Lounge, helping establish one of Chicago’s best-known dedicated magic venues.
A Leader in the Society of American Magicians
John’s involvement with the S.A.M. goes far beyond simply being a member.
He served as president of the historic S.A.M. Assembly #3 in Chicago, and subsequently moved through several national leadership positions:
- National Second Vice President, 2020–2021
- National First Vice President, 2021–2022
- National President-Elect, 2022–2023
- National President, 2023–2024
He became the 107th National President of the Society of American Magicians.
The S.A.M. is one of the oldest and most significant magic organizations in the United States. Its history stretches back more than a century, with legendary magicians—including Harry Houdini—having served in its leadership.
More Than a Performer
What makes John Sturk particularly interesting is the variety of disciplines he brings together.
He is not only a magician. He is also a skilled keyboard player and improvisational musician, having performed with Chicago comedy and theater organizations including The Second City, iO Chicago, and others.
His background in journalism, technology, parliamentary procedure, improvisation, music, and magic gives him an unusual perspective on leadership and communication.
During his involvement with the S.A.M., John helped develop leadership resources, online forums, communication initiatives, and technology-related projects for the organization. He has also been involved with the S.A.M. website, marketing, M-U-M Magazine, and convention planning.
Connecting Magicians and Building Community
At the heart of organizations like the Society of American Magicians is community.
Magic is traditionally taught and passed from one magician to another. Local assemblies provide opportunities for magicians to meet, share ideas, learn new techniques, perform for one another, and preserve the history and traditions of the art.
John Sturk’s career demonstrates how magic can become much more than performing tricks. It can become a platform for creativity, communication, collaboration, leadership, and lifelong friendships.
That makes John an especially interesting guest for Our Magic Universe.
John Sturk on Our Magic Universe
MagicBrad is seeking conversations with magicians, illusionists, designers, builders, collectors, historians, entertainers, and people who think beyond perceived reality.
John Sturk represents many of those worlds.
His experience as a professional magician, entertainer, musician, comedy performer, Chicago Magic Lounge co-founder, S.A.M. Assembly leader, and Past National President of the Society of American Magicians provides a fascinating story about where magic has been—and where it may be going.
Our Magic Universe isn’t just about secrets and tricks.
It’s about the people, ideas, history, creativity, and community behind magic.
And John Sturk is certainly part of that universe.
Want to be a guest on Our Magic Universe? MagicBrad is looking for interesting people from the world of magic and beyond to join the conversation.
Learn more about the Society of American Magicians
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