The Mask and the Real Magic Beyond
Hello friends,
Lately, I’ve been recording behind the scenes footage of my upcoming theater performances of Cosmic Bubbles Show. Seeing myself from that perspective, off stage, unpolished, got me thinking: maybe it’s time I share a deeper glimpse into what life is really like as a performer. Showing the human side of magic.
My intention for Riverstone Entertainment has always been more than just creating magic shows, it’s about building a community of magic and bubble lovers. A space where we can all come together and share in a world of mystery, wonder, joy, and fun. By sharing these behind the scenes thoughts, my hope is to be relatable, not just as a performer, but as a fellow human being on this journey I am honored to share with all who join me.
When you see me on stage, at a festival, or a private event, you see joy, laughter, illusions, magic, and bubbles floating like stardust. But behind the curtain, sometimes there’s another story. Being a full-time performer and small business owner is both a dream come true and a test of strength.
There are days when personal struggles weigh heavily, moments of exhaustion, stress, or doubt, when it feels like I have to put on a mask just to step into the spotlight. There are nights when I’m not only rehearsing but also answering emails, booking shows, updating my media, and managing the business side that keeps the dream alive.
But what these struggles have taught me is resilience. Every challenge, no matter how heavy, has shaped me into someone stronger and more grounded. Fatigue has shown me the importance of discipline and rest. Doubt has taught me humility and pushed me to refine my art. It has taught me that my creativity has no bounds. The constant juggle of running a business and being an amazing performer has given me patience, persistence, and gratitude for every opportunity.
Most importantly, those struggles have made me not just a better performer, but also taught me life lessons that continue to help me improve myself as a person. I am reminded of that inner child within me, because when I finally step on stage and meet the eyes of a child bursting with wonder, or a family or friends laughing together in pure joy, I feel something shift. The connection between performer and audience is the real magic. It’s in those moments that all the late nights, the worries, and the battles behind the mask dissolve. What remains is joy, connection, and the simple beauty of creating a shared magical memory.
This connection is the greatest reward of all. It reminds me why I started this journey as a child who believed every fountain was a wishing fountain, that magic could be real. And in a way, it is. Through resilience, through struggle, through persistence, I’ve learned that magic isn’t just in the illusions or the bubbles, it’s in the bond we create with each other.
So thank you, for giving me the reason to keep showing up, to keep pushing forward, to turn struggles into strength and challenges into art. The mask may sometimes hide the weight, but the magic always reveals the heart.
I can’t wait to share more with you as Cosmic Bubbles comes to life on stage. Keep an eye out for behind the scenes clips and announcements, I’d love for you to join me at one of the upcoming performances and experience the magic in person.
You can see more about the show and purchase tickets here!
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Click the links below for information about each event
Cosmic Bubbles Tour: Carlisle Theatre
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Forest of the Fae
This past weekend at Forest of the Fae was pure magic!
I had the joy of performing on stage, roaming the festival grounds, hanging out with Steven, and even sharing bubble wonders at the enchanting Blue Faery Gala. From putting people (including myself) inside giant bubbles to dancing the night away, every moment was filled with laughter and magic.
One of the most touching parts for me was the heartfelt feedback I received from the Forest of the Fae team: “It is amazing what joy is brought to the heart at any age by bubbles. Thank you for sharing that magical energy this weekend… you are the embodiment of a magical human. You have an incredible way with magic on and off stage.”
My heart is overflowing with gratitude for this beautiful event and the magic we created together.
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At Riverstone Entertainment, every smile, every gasp of wonder, and every moment we share with you is what keeps the magic alive. Whether you’ve joined me at a show, welcomed me to your celebration, or simply enjoy a sprinkle of enchantment in your inbox, thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to creating more magical moments together!
With Magic, Bubbles and Gratitude,
River Barry