On this day in 1982, Lance Burton won the Grand Prix at FISM in Lausanne, Switzerland, the first American and the youngest contestant to win. The act was the epitome of elegant, sophisticated sleight of hand. It formed the cornerstone of Lance Burton’s long, successful career.
In later years, audiences were charmed by his easy-going Kentucky sense of humor. Burton started talking through part of his famous manipulation act as a way to welcome the audience.
“I’m actually very well known in Kentucky,” he’d say with his soft drawl, as doves, candles, and cards danced at his fingertips. “I’m the only person… with… a… tuxedo!”
