Gronauer turns down scholarship, joins David Blaine on tour

Senior+Tyler+Gronauer++will+join+David+Blaine+on+his+tour+starting+in+September+2019.

IMAGE / Mr. Avery Stumm

Senior Tyler Gronauer will join David Blaine on his tour starting in September 2019.

Harry Houdini, David Copperfield, David Blaine, Criss Angel … and senior Tyler Gronauer?

Gronauer was offered the chance to perform as David Blaine’s opening act in Las Vegas for a year starting in September 2019.

This means that in order to pursue his dream of performing magic on the big stage, Gronauer will have to give up his Jean Fairfax scholarship — a full ride to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

“Of course it’s exceptionally hard to turn down such an honor, but I can’t say no to something that has been a dream since I was 5 years old,” Gronauer said.

In December 2018, Gronauer submitted a video of himself doing close-up magic to a nationwide competition held by Blaine.

On Thursday, March 21, Gronauer received the email that would change his future — Blaine inviting him to Las Vegas for a year-long tour.

IMAGE / Courtesy of Tyler Gronauer
Senior Tyler Gronauer was able to meet David Blaine for the first time in July 2017 at The Dow Event Center.

“I was able to see David’s show at The Dow Event Center a couple of summers ago and it was amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it,” Gronauer said. “Now I get to be part of his amazing shows. I didn’t even believe it when I read the email.”

Gronauer’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marc and Lisa Gronauer, said they are proud of Tyler’s achievements.

“A year ago I would not have imagined Tyler in this position,” Mrs. Gronauer said. “Tyler is multi-talented and all of his hard work is paying off.”

Mr. Gronauer is shocked but excited to see Tyler pursue his passion.

“It’s hard to see him turn down a full ride, but I know this opportunity will open so many doors,” Mr. Gronauer said.

Throughout the halls of KHS, Gronauer is recognized for his unique talent. He coined the name Tyler G. Magic after classmates discovered his old website used to promote his growing talent.

Senior Keegan Cummings, friend and classmate, said he’s going to miss Gronauer but is impressed by his success.

I love being on stage and performing for a crowd. This will be a whole new level.

— Tyler Gronauer, senior

“Tyler is one of my best friends. Going to college without him will be strange,” Cummings said. “Tyler is going to do great things, though. I can’t wait to go to Vegas to see a show.”

Gronauer has worked at a Fenton restaurant called The Laundry for five years performing his magic for customers. He also puts on shows all around Michigan for different events.

“I love being on stage and performing for a crowd,” Gronauer said. “This will be a whole new level.”

Disclaimer — This story is made up and is completely fictitious. Don’t believe a word of it. April Fools!