BY CONNIE BOYD
ROOTS
FROM HER PERFORMANCE ON PENN & TELLER : FOOL US
BY CONNIE BOYD
Rachel Ling Gordon , at just eleven years old , made history in 2024 as the youngest magician ever to appear on all ten seasons of the television hit series , “ Penn & Teller : Fool Us .” Hailed by Penn Gillette as , " the future of magic ," Rachel described the experience , “ as a dream fulfilled , beyond words .”
Diagnosed with selective mutism and severe anxiety disorder as a toddler , Rachel has discovered her voice through dedication to arts such as classical piano , singing , acting , dancing and magic . Standing on stage , receiving a standing ovation , she marveled at her journey , transforming from mute to magic .
Rachel relished every moment of her “ Fool Us ” experience , in particular performing onstage at the Penn & Teller Theater where she had watched so many fabulous magicians perform on the television show since she was a young girl . She expanded , “ It was a surreal experience … standing on the same stage as the legends ; only this time I was the one performing !”
Rachel continued , “ Even though anxiety is still very much a part of me , I have learned to manage it . Instead of letting it hold me back , I use it and channel my anxiety energy when I perform . I am overflowing with gratitude towards my wonderful family for bringing the best team to aid me in overcoming my disorder . It truly took a village of individuals - doctors , teachers , friends , mentors , coaches , therapists , and countless others to guide me to be where I am today . Nothing brings me greater joy than serving as an ambassador for the Selective Mutism Association and SMart Center , sharing my own personal experiences to spread awareness and to bring hope and inspiration to others .”
Rachel shared that the joy that magic provides , that happiness reflected on her audiences faces alongside their spontaneous smiles and applause , gives her the most satisfaction . She continues to work through issues , but her own experiences are proving that following her passions equates happiness . She is determined , “ to never give up , because dreams truly do come true ! I owe it all to the support and help I received from everyone .”
ROOTS
Rachel earliest memories as a child , includes struggles with mutism , which often left her feeling isolated . Her parents enrolled her into after-school magic classes and every Tuesday , she anticipated those classes with hope
JUNE | 2024 41