Chris Funk, known on stage as The Wonderist, is bringing his signature mix of magic and music to the Southeast Event Centre this Friday, and for the Manitoba-born performer, it feels like a heartfelt return.
"I spent most of my life in Winnipeg with roots near Steinbach – my parents are from the Grunthal area and the Arnaud area – and I went to school in Gretna," Funk says. "So this really is a homecoming."
His upcoming performance is part of the opening lineup at the brand-new Southeast Event Centre in Steinbach. "I'm very pumped to be there," Funk adds. "I've heard it's a phenomenal space, and I'm honoured to help kick things off."
Beyond sleight of hand
Funk's act is more than just tricks. His show weaves storytelling, music, and audience interaction into a dynamic, engaging experience. "It's really a story about who I am and my journey," he explains. "I combine magic with live music and try to be in the moment with the audience."
This immersive approach has taken him far beyond the Prairies. Funk has performed on some of the world’s most recognized stages, including America’s Got Talent, Masters of Illusion, and Penn & Teller: Fool Us. On AGT, he recalls an unexpected phone call during a vacation in Palm Springs: "They asked me to perform my violin act in front of the judges the next week. My mom flew down with my gear, and we made it happen. Simon Cowell even started the standing ovation."
While he didn’t fool Penn and Teller on their show, they praised his act. "Teller said it was one of the top three artistic performances of the season," Funk says. "That was a win in my books."
Inspiration and improvisation
Funk draws creative fuel from fellow magicians like David Copperfield, Justin Willman, and Derren Brown. "Magic is like music – there are only so many principles, but endless ways to interpret them," he says.
He also keeps things fresh by leaving space in his performance for spontaneity. "I try not to script too much so I can really be present with the audience. That’s where the magic happens."
Full circle moments
Part of the joy for Funk is seeing the next generation inspired by his shows. "I learned my first trick in Grade 11 from a guy in Niverville," he recalls. "Now, to think I might be that spark for someone else – that’s really special."
Whether you're a longtime fan or seeing him for the first time, Funk’s show promises not just illusions, but a celebration of wonder and possibility.
Tickets for Chris Funk's show this Friday June 27 at the Southeast Event Centre are available at southeasteventcentre.ca. Availability is limited as excitement builds for this standout performance.
