WHS to Screen Magician Movie Starring Alum

will present a showing of the movie, "Make Believe, The Battle to Become The World’s Best Teen Magician," at 7 p.m. Feb. 6 in the school theater. The film stars Bill Cook, WHS alum (Class of 2007) and professional magician. 

"Make Believe" takes a look at adolescence through magic, following six of the world’s best young magicians as they pursue the title of Teen World Champion. Winner of the Best Documentary Award at the Los Angeles Film Festival, and the Audience Choice award at the Austin Film Festival, the film was given a "thumbs-up" rating by renowned film critic Roger Ebert.

In the movie, the six teens, all very passionate about the art of magic, come together to compete for the title of Teen World Champion, while attending the World Magic Seminar in Las Vegas. While demonstrating their skills onstage, the characters are self-assured and dedicated, but offstage, these young outsiders are meeting the challenges faced by most teenagers, which makes for an inspiring coming-of-age story.

While a student at Wheeling, Cook was involved in both the band and theater programs. Now an award-winning professional magician, Cook performs nationally and internationally in competitions, at conventions, private parties, corporate events and other venues.

The public is invited to the free showing of "Make Believe." For more information, call band director Brian Logan at (847) 718-7111.

— Submitted by School District 214