127. Magic in the Hudson Valley (Season 9 Premiere)

127. Magic in the Hudson Valley (Season 9 Premiere)

From Cidiot by Mat Zucker - Living in the Hudson Valley

February 18, 2026 · 16 min · Season 9 · Episode 127

About this episode

Mat Zucker interviews illusionist Thomas Baker about magic and wonder in the Hudson Valley.

“One is fooling the mind. The other is fooling the eyes.” —Thomas Baker on the difference between a magician and an illusionist Season 9 is out! With Cidiot ®, I’ve been trying for more than 125 episodes to open your eyes to new things. This season will be all about wonder. We need to look into the wonder to see what’s possible. So this season starts with magic. Thomas Baker is an illusionist based in Hudson Valley's Saugerties, New York, known for creating moments that defy explanation. He has sold out the Bridge Street Theatre in Catskill and performed for major brands including L’Oréal Paris, as well as audiences throughout the Hudson Valley. His work spans weddings, festivals, and live events, where reality bends, and expectations vanish. With a style rooted in suspense and surprise, Baker leaves his audiences in stunned silence long after the illusion ends. You know I love accolades. Thomas has been called “Houdini of the Hudson Valley.” Thomas and I talk about becoming a magician, what works, how to identify the cidiot in the audience, and we even do an audio magic trick! You’ll love him, and you should book him for your next dinner party, Bar Mitzvah, or event. Where to…

People in this episode

Host: Mat Zucker

Guest: Thomas Baker

Topics covered

  • magic
  • illusion
  • Hudson Valley
  • entertainment
  • wonder
  • events

Keywords

  • magic
  • illusionist
  • Hudson Valley
  • Thomas Baker
  • entertainment
  • audio magic trick
  • events

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Bridge Street Theatre, L’Oréal Paris, Silver Hollow Audio, Kaatcast: The Catskills Podcast

Places: Hudson Valley, Saugerties, Catskill

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