Animal Magic Comes to Mauldin

On Monday, the nationally renowned animal entertainer Mark Rosenthal brought some critters to his performance in the Mauldin Library that few, if any, in the audience had seen in person.

A kookaburra, a large sloth and a Fennek Fox were among the featured animals in one performance. Since no two of Rosenthal’s performances are the same, it’s hard to say if they appeared in later demonstrations.

Rosenthal, who hails from suburban Michigan, tours the country informing and delighting audiences of all ages. This week he’ll be stopping by all of the libraries in Greenville County at least once (click here for the schedule).

Over 30 years ago, Rosenthal a relative invited him to bring some of his exotic animals to a birthday party. Combining his love for animals with a love of magic cultivated since age 8, created a genre that defies description, but is all his own.

“I saw people liked it, so I’ve kept doing it,” Rosenthal.

Animal Magic has landed Rosenthal plaudits from many, including Nickelodeon, which named him Entertainer of the Year in 2010.

It is a labor of love for Rosenthal, whose affection for animals is unmistakable and as vast as the 10-acre property that is home to the 4,000 animals in his care.