Monday, August 2: Comedy Juggler Steve Russell at the Library

For more than half of his life, Steve Russell has literally juggled his way around the world. His travels and talents have taken him from the Pyramids of Egypt to the Amazon Basin. Notable performances include the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Lincoln Center in New York.

Now, to help celebrate the 2010 Summer Reading Challenge in Racine, this former trainer for Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus will bring his show of skill and laughter to the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St. His show is appropriate for all ages and will be presented on Monday, August 2 at 6:30 pm in the Youth Services Department. The event is free and open to all. Seating is available on a first come/first served basis. No registration is necessary.

Steve picked up the skills of juggling from a book he borrowed from a library when he was 15 years old. The skills turned into a hobby, the hobby turned into an obsession, then to a profession. In the years he has been performing professionally, Steve has visited 35 countries and all 50 states with his unique mix of juggling, magic, comedy and audience participation.

"I love performing for libraries!" says the Wisconsin native. "The Summer Reading Programs are a wonderful way to keep children reading throughout the year. I tell them that books can be keys to the world. In my case, it was literally true."

Russell has shared the stage with Penn and Teller; has performed for film director Ron Howard; and has appeared before the Royal Family of Spain.