Little Nicholas Callahan, 4, stood in front an audience of children and adults as he helped “The Great Bellini” perform one of his magic tricks in his show.
The magic show was the start of the festivities for the annual Village New Hyde Park tree lighting ceremony held at Marcus Christi Community Center on Saturday.
Callahan’s grandmother Gina Callahan of New Hyde Park said she attends the event every year.
“Events like these are good for the community and I like to support our community,” Callahan said. “Kids love to see the tree lighting and they love the magic show. The magician did a great job, and it really is for the kids.”
The event was sponsored by the State Bank of Long Island.
John Bellon Jr. “a.k.a.” “The Great Bellini” asked several children to help in his performance as he kept the crowd entertained, always keeping the children guessing what he would do next.
Having done events for the village in the past, Bellon said being a magician is something he has done for years along with his work as a professional drummer in a music group.
“Its my passion,” Bellon said. “I love kids and I love being able to be creative and entertain people. I also have to give credit to my agency The Magic of Amore for helping in my career.”
Following the magic show the Chamber Singers performed a melody of songs led by director Robert McKinnon including “Joy to the World”, “Jingle Bells”, and “Silent Night.” The New Hyde Park Memorial High School band accompanied them between sets.
Each child was offered a free Disney paint set given out by Kathy Richards and Linda Varrone of the Little Treasures Pre School.
Once it was dark Village of New Hyde Park Mayor Dan Petruccio, Deputy Mayor Robert Lofaro, village trustees, cultural commissioner Lisa Miranda, Nassau County Legislator Richard Nicolello and state Assemblyman Tom McKevitt helped throw the switch to light the tree in front of Village Hall.
Children were also given a special treat with a visit from Santa Claus played by New Hyde Park Fire Commissioner Rich Stein, who has been playing Santa for the last 30 years.
