Not many people, at the tender age of 23, can say they’ve already been working in their chosen profession for 15 years. But, the magician formerly known as Ali K. Zam, can say just that.

Leif began performing at the precocious age of 8 for his brother’s daycare. His first 30 minute show included turning a scarf into a cane and inserting a needle into a balloon, a trick he still does today. That summer, bitten with the performing bug, the newly christened Ali K. Zam continued to perform up to three times a week at daycares and senior’s centres. These shows were booked by his mother, who was also his assistant/manager/chauffeur until he learned to drive. “Mom basically did everything except the show itself.” He even bought her a sequined teal dress to match his teal suit. Ali K. Zam was on his way, soon busily performing at festivals, parties and schools. Leif David Thordarson, a once shy and fearful young lad, had found his life’s passion. Amazing what the simple gift of a magic kit for Christmas can inspire!Leif David kelowna magician

Almost entirely self-taught, with the help of some library books, a few workshops and lots and lots of experience, Leif is now a seasoned professional magician who performs up to 170 shows a year. He is also President of the local magic club, sharing his skills and enthusiasm with other members, ages 8 to 70. Magic seems to attract people of all ages and from all walks of life. “I just love magic!” says Leif. “It’s very empowering to do these tricks and entertain people…especially if you can give them that moment of astonishment and wonder when they forget about everything else.” His favourite routine to perform is bending metal forks with his mind, a trick which won Leif second place at a magic convention last summer.

Asked about the name change, from Ali K. Zam to the more sober Leif David, he laughs “ I don’t want to be Ali K. Zam when I’m 30.” He also performs at a lot of corporate functions, and other adult oriented shows where the name Ali K. Zam may not exactly portray the mature, more sophisticated performer he has since become. He’ll keep Ali K. Zam as the name of his production company.

Did Leif never have any doubts about the direction his life would take? Well he did attend college as a “back-up plan,” studying telecommunications and network engineering. He took a job in computers for a while but hated it and soon decided to return to performing magic full time. However, his education wasn’t wasted as he applies many of the technical skills he learned to his magic work and promotion. “What college really taught me was the work ethic,” says Leif.

Odd that someone who’s been working since the age of eight and who bought his own braces should need to learn about the work ethic! But that’s just the kind of guy he is: while doing a library show last summer he cut his finger deeply while performing a rope trick. “Even though I was bleeding pretty badly, I managed to finish the trick,” he says. “I don’t think the kids even noticed.” The show must go on! For more information about Leif David or to book him for an event, visit www.alikzam.com.