Cover Story Linking Ring March 2023

Magic has been their livelihood since before they were married in 1973. The early part of their career was spent traveling far and wide entertaining in nightclubs and hotels all over the United States and Canada. For four years Rob & Carol entertained passengers on cruise ships traveling to Bermuda, the Caribbean and South America. Over the years they have shared the stage with numerous celebrities and after being on and off the road for many years, the Allen's have always returned to their native Western New York. Their work these days centers around their family and home on the shores of the mighty Niagara River in Niagara Falls, NY. In 1976 Rob and Carol found corporate sponsorship an attractive alternative to traditional show business venues. To this day, they continue to work hand in hand with the Western New York Dairy Industry--this is the longest-running, corporate sponsored magic show in the world--this is year 48! Although Rob has never held a traditional teaching position, he has put his Bachelor's Degree in Education to good use presenting their nutrition-themed magic show in more than 100 schools every spring. Besides his performing abilities, Rob has been deeply involved with all aspect of his craft. For five years Rob has presided over the Performing Magicians Association, an organization made up of full-time performing magicians from around the world. Rob has authored numerous articles on magic and magic's history. He is a recognized collector of memorabilia related to magic's theatrical history. Almost all the magic, props, stage settings, illusions and signs used in the show have been created, designed and built by Rob. Rob is a proud member of the S.A.M. and I.B.M. At age fourteen he became the President of Junior Ring 12 that met at Gene Gordon's Magic Shop in Buffalo, NY. At seventeen he was the youngest member ever admitted to Ring 12; Carol was the first woman to become a member of the ring. Most recently Rob & Carol have been awarded the "Masters Award" by the Milbourne Christopher Foundation 2021 and Small Business of the Year from the Wheatfield Business Association 2024. Rob & Carol are proud to continue to entertain and bring wonder and joy to children of all ages.