Eric Bausworth is bringing a bit of magic to High Ridge.
Bausworth, a 1995 Northwest High School graduate, plans to open the Old Time Magic Shop at 2813 High Ridge Blvd.
He said the grand opening will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 30. Bausworth said the grand opening event will include magicians from the St. Louis area and a food truck.
Bausworth, 47, of Affton said he has been interested in magic since he was a teenager.
“I’ve always liked magic, been doing magic for about 25 years now off and on,” he said.
The shop will carry items used for tricks, lectures and workshops. It also will offer classes, Bausworth said.
“We have everything from beginner to expert, to stuff that magicians need to replace,” he said.
Bausworth said a five-week beginner class will start at about $50. He said the classroom area at the store accommodates about 25 people.
He said the classroom also will be available for party rentals.
“We will supply the room, we will have the magician and they will bring their food and cake,” he said.
Bausworth said he learned his first magic trick while tagging along with his parents in 1989 to a work convention, which had a magic theme.
“Every night they give you a little magic trick in your room or whatever and that kind of got me started,” he said.
Bausworth said at the time there was a magic shop in High Ridge and in St. Louis, but both closed many years ago.
He said some of his favorite tricks involve rubber bands, coins or cards because he can involve others with the trick.
“I try to get people involved with everything I do, as much as possible,” Bausworth said.
His store will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.
Bausworth also owns the Old Time Finds shop, 2807 Barbara Drive, in High Ridge, which carries collectibles and vintage and antique items.