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Gary “West” Lazok, native - Phoenix. Az. Performing since 1976 ‐ current. Gary began performing at an early age of 5, (guitar photo, 1964) then a little older in the play; Snow White, (photo far right, Huntsman). His first public Magic show was at a McDonalds, age 12. Next was a high school show during a Sophomore English class, then Maryvale H.S. stage show in 1976, (old stage photo,). However, the classroom show had the biggest impact on him becoming a magical entertainer. Gary's education continued with acting classes in the performing arts in college, beginners and advance Magic classes taught by Jack Sutherland. He soon became a semi-Pro magician performing nights and weekends, with a construction day job to supplement his Magic income. Gary being married 30+ years, 4 kids and 10 grandkids; he retired early as a superintendent from the construction industry, all the while studying and learning from the pros and then becoming a professional Magician performing throughout the southwest. Highlighting shows in Las Vegas and on TV. However, after performing in the stereotypical outfit, (black suit & tie) and utilizing birds & rabbits, Gary decided to change things up by developing a character called; Gary West, “a wild western magician”. It was during that time that Gary would take existing magical props, and rework them, or change them into something similar that coincides with a western theme. And using his knowledge of constructing, Gary built a “free standing” saloon backdrop with swinging doors for his stage shows, (see photos). Gary continued to develop other themed type shows, like sports magic, circus ringmaster, racing magic and more, which he again enjoyed designing and creating “one of a kind” magic tricks and props for those themes. Gary is a member of two magic groups, the S.A.M., (Society of American Magicians) which he was president of the S.A.M. in 2006/07, the other group is the International Brotherhood of Magicians, both of which Gary has lectured at and taught magic to other magicians. Winning many awards, Gary is most proud of, (and humbled by) being presented with The Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of American Magicians. Gary says he is grateful and thankful to have met so many other great performers, who he has studied and learned from, and have assisted him during his amazing Magical journey.
