It all started in June of 1982, when an eight year old James Reid arrived in Arizona . He saw a juggler for the first time, performing on the streets of Tempe . James was mesmerized and immediately ran up to ask for a lesson. This stranger got James started as a juggler. James practiced hard and received assistance from the Aerial Mirage Juggling Club, the International Jugglers’ Association’s Phoenix affiliate. Several months later James had his debut performance on Halloween, 1982.

James as Jobo the Juggler.

Tempe Festival of the Arts, 1983

 

James continued to practice and perform, always adding new elements to his show. In 1985 he added to his repertoire by taking a yo-yo class. A year later James picked up his first set of flower sticks, adding this ancient Chinese art to his show. In 1990, James began practicing another Chinese tradition, the Diabolo. This prop is closely related to the yo-yo, as it spins on a string. However, the diabolo is not attached which allows for many high throws and other trick catches. More recently, James has learned the Maori art of the Poi Swings. This colorful tradition adds particular flair to the Blacklight show.

While James has always been passionate about performing, he also loves to share what he has learned with others. In 1988, James taught his first official juggling class at the Cottonwood Recreation Center . He was already assisting in yo-yo class at this point, and by 1991 was teaching both juggling and yo-yo as summer youth classes.

 

James’ first class celebrates in 1988

 

While respecting all the ancient traditions he had learned, James had a desire to do something new and unique with his art. So, as the millennium drew to a close a new idea formed in his head that would combine these traditions with modern technology. After over a year of creation and preparation, The Blacklight Juggling show was brought before its first audience at a performance of the band Major Lingo in October, 2000. The screams of approval let James know it had been worth the effort taken to create this unique show.

Since then, James has pursued performing with a new passion.  He has moved back to Phoenix in order to teach his arts and perform full time. He has devoted himself to practice and has brought his skills to new levels. He continues to work to constantly improve his act and bring it to new audiences, traveling across the country as well as performing locally. James Reid currently resides, performs, and teaches happily in Phoenix, Arizona . James lives with his partner, Janet, of Peaceful Dragon Massage.