Stand-up comedian Michael Kent is bringing his blend of stand-up comedy and magic to Central Michigan University tonight.

Kent will perform at 9 p.m. today in Moore Hall’s Townsend Kiva in a free event titled “Comedian, Magician, Smarta.” CMU Program Board is hosting the event, expected to draw about 150 people.

“He has a new twist on magic and comedy,” said Allegan senior Carrie Lewis, lecture chair of Program Board.

One of Kent’s signature tricks involves smashing some paper bags flat, not knowing which of them contains broken glass, and making bottles appear seemingly from thin air.

This is the second performance at CMU for the Columbus, Ohio, comedian. Kent previously performed at a United Way charity auction last year. His performance at that event led to him being invited back for this one.

“It’s nice to bring something different to campus,” said Program Board Comedy Chair Christa Smalligan, Fremont senior, who helped organize the event.

Kent first came to the attention of the Program Board at a convention of the National Association of College Activities.

He has performed at many universities throughout the United States, including Rutgers University, Seton Hall University and Grand Valley State University.

“Students tend to like the comedy acts we put on and he brings an interesting twist with his magic,” said Milan junior Kelsey Moran, secretary of Program Board.

Some students echo that viewpoint.

To promote his show, Kent will perform some street magic noon to 1 p.m. today at Real Food on Campus and Fresh Food Company.

news@cm-life.com

E-mail the author: defaultuser