About Toby Travis

“Over the years I have seen the finest of presentations by famous illusionists. Toby Travis is the best! His program is very attractive, sensitive and his presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is crystal clear.”   - George Sweeting, Chancellor Emeritus, Moody Bible Institute Chicago, IL (pictured at left with Toby after a recent community outreach event)

For over twenty years Toby Travis has partnered with churches and ministries throughout the United Kingdom, Eastern Europe, South Asia, Central & South America, as well as coast-to-coast throughout the United States in reaching the unreached in their communities.

Toby Travis is a multi-talented presenter: illusionist, humorist, actor, inspirational speaker, author, gifted evangelist, and biblical scholar. As an award-winning entertainer, Toby has been “commended for excellence” by the American Theater Association.

Toby Travis is one of the premier family entertainers and inspirational speakers in America today. According to the Family Life Journal his show is “A must see event for the entire family.” Trinity Communications describes his presentation as a “First-class evening of entertainment!”

Toby shares his personal journey of faith in Jesus Christ as well as a compelling presentation of the Gospel as part of his community outreach events; providing a unique presentation that many have described as “life-changing.”

Through his many radio, television, and live appearances around the globe, Toby Travis has enthralled and inspired millions.

A Brief History  

Born Toby Adrian Travis on July 5, 1960 in Johnson City, NY.

Protégé of Robert Thrasher, former President of the Magician's Alliance of Eastern States. (Pictured on right with a 14-year-old Toby following one of their many performances together!)

Performed with "The New Commandment" vocal group throughout the 1970's.

Received several Silver & Gold Medals for vocal competitions as a teenager, as well as the starring role in half a dozen school theater productions.

Studied music, broadcasting, acting, and biblical studies at Northwestern College, Roseville, MN.

Commended for "Excellence in Acting" by the American Theater Association in 1979 for his role in the musical "Carnival."

Named "Best New Magician of The Year" in 1980.

Completed both a Bachelor of Theology and a Masters of Religious Education from Trinity Theological Seminary with high honors.

Served as a Program Director and then as a Special Representative for Youth For Christ/USA.

Served as an Assistant Pastor for 3 years while completing his academic studies.
 
Released solo contemporary Christian album in 1985.

Toured with illusionist and mentor Andre Kole, 1987-1988.

Produced and starred in one of the largest touring illusion shows touring throughout the USA from 1988-2003.

President of T.T.M., Inc., Binghamton, NY, 1987-1999.

Authored "The Professional Amateur: A Handbook for Variety Artists" (no longer in print)

Authored "Searching The Supernatural"

In 1997 Toby participated in the first "South Asia Project" - utilizing entertainers to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with many of the most unreached people groups in the world today. Then he coordinated the project for many years, reaching millions of the unreached and assisting hundreds of churches and para-church ministries. Toby continues to participate in this project, committing several weeks of his international schedule each year to South Asia. 

Vice-President,  Faith Studies International, Chaska, MN, 1999-2002.

Special Guest of "Friend to Friend" video series.

Presenter with Dr. Don Bierle on the "FaithSearch" DVD.

Associate of the Inner Magic Circle with Silver Star, London, England.

President of the Christian Consortium on the Paranormal.

President, Ministry Arts for Global Impact, 2002-2007.

Released the "KNOWFooling" DVD.

Currently serving as the Global Field Representative for Ripe For Harvest World Outreach, as well as recently completing two new books: one that provides a biblical world-view of the paranormal, and another on the effective use of entertainment events for community outreach.

Also currently serving on the faculty of the Alliance Academy International in Quito, Ecuador.