Merna Ann Hecht
Tom celebrates the intrigue of language, bringing well-loved and original poetry to life and weaving his magician’s skill into each poem or story. He invites the children to dive into language and enter into spellbound realms of possibility. In my many years of teaching young people, I have not seen a better way to enliven their imaginations or bring the magic of poetry directly to them. Indeed, Tom is a master of the Poet’s magic.
Stephen Silha
Tom Pruiksma is a magical poet, and a poetic magician. His dances with words, images, and magic tricks made my momentous 60th birthday celebration come alive for everyone there. He’s a consummate host, a wonderful poet, a surprising magician, and a creative in-the-moment improviser.
Jeanine Walker
Tom’s shows are delightful. Magic is a wonderful vehicle for instilling in students of all ages a love of poetry. As an observer, I have witnessed on children’s faces looks of awe and wonder and a delight in the poetic words Tom recites while escaping from a rope or making quarters appear out of nowhere. I highly recommend Tom’s performance for any level of students—teachers and kids alike have told me how much they loved watching him, and taking part in his poetic magic.
Martin Schmidt
Tom delighted our students with story and magic throughout the performance. The show was very interactive and held the attention of everyone.
King Michele McLaughlin
What a fantastic program today! Thank you very much for making it so fun and engaging and educational, all at the same time.
Nan Hammett, Julie Hanger, and the entire Link Staff
Thank you for your two tremendous presentations at FamilyLink in March. A Bequest of Wings and The Poet’s Magic provided a perfect opportunity for students, parents and staff to get a taste of poetry from the inside out.
Parents, students and staff have shared with us how your visit affected their daily lives. Reading poetry at night before bedtime, carrying a journal to write down poetic thoughts when a scene is moving, reading favorite poet’s poems out loud during a consultation meeting, collecting four years of poetry to show one’s emotional development throughout high school are all examples of how influential your presentations have been and continue to be to us. . . .
Thank you again and again.
May Gerstle
I knew that Tom could sing and perform magic but I had no idea that he was an outstanding poet as well. At the March 23rd show I saw an extraordinary performance with a large room full of spell-bound spectators. As people of all ages became actively involved, I realized this was a rare, eclectic and brilliant performance. Tom is a unique, multi-talented performer.
Cyndie Scott
I was transfixed with Tom’s performance in ‘By Heart.’ His stage presence, the lighting, the magic tricks, the poetry and songs were all entwined in a wonderfully entertaining experience. It was a totally enjoyable afternoon.
Rebecca Schmidt
We love Tom Pruiksma’s magic shows! He has performed for the children of our church several times. The kids are always thrilled when he performs. They learn valuable lessons and magic tricks too. His shows are captivating, thought provoking and inclusive. As a coordinator, I especially like how Thomas is always well-prepared, thoughtful, friendly and professional. I highly recommend him for your next special event.
University of Washington Student
Our guest speaker inspired me and made me realize how powerful the words of poetry can be. . . . When our guest recited a poem entitled ‘Tonight I can write the Saddest Lines,’ my heart slowed. This poem is so beautiful and moving and with his help I was able to understand the meaning behind it.
Wendy Lustbader
It was magical to see you do your enchantment with things appearing and disappearing, words filling the air, all of us dazzled.
What a wonderful experience
What a wonderful experience we had with Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma at our school assembly. His beautifully calm and engaging voice, partnered with his wonderful magic, captivated all of the students, from 4-year-olds to 11-year-olds. Thomas included student voices to help with his stories, and student hands to help with his magic. He brought our story telling unit to a new level! By sharing his gifts, answering student questions, and encouraging our young story tellers, it is not at all surprising that his visit ended with requests for autographs! I am already excited for our next opportunity to invite Thomas back to our school.
