The Lehigh Valley's annual Halloween tradition, the "Haunted Illusions" magic show by showman David Caserta, returns at 7 p.m. Oct. 25 to the historic State Theatre Center for the Arts, 453 Northampton St., Easton.

Caserta, a Walnutport native and 1997 Muhlenberg College graduate, created the "Haunted Illusions" magic show nine years ago. He has been touring around the United States with it ever since.

Caserta's interest in magic began when he was a boy. He loved to see magicians on television and found a magic shop (now long since closed) in Allentown that offered magic lessons.

His devoted parents made the trek from Walnutport to Allentown every other week, a fact that Caserta now remembers with gratitude. "My parents dedicated their time to my interest, when they didn't have to," he says.

Caserta was influenced by the legendary Houdini and more modern showmen like David Copperfield and Harry Blackstone Jr. After graduating from Muhlenberg's theater program, Caserta went on to perform his magic at theme parks, including Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, as well as Six Flags nationwide.

Today, Caserta's "Haunted Illusions" magic show has become a Halloween tradition for many Lehigh Valley families. "It's a family-friendly show," he says. "It's not gory or scary. It's got a fun spooky Halloween theme. Each year, I add new things to it so that every year it's a little different."

This year, Caserta's big illusion will be a disappearing act. A child will be chosen from the audience and made to disappear. "Even the child won't know how it was done," says Caserta.

"It's a very interactive show. The entire audience can get involved. Both adults and kids can enjoy it."

Performing at the State Theatre is a special thrill for Caserta. "I love the State," he says. "It's a gorgeous and intimate venue. We always fill the place up. The hometown crowd is great."

Tickets: State Theatre Box Office, 453 Northampton St., Easton; statetheatre.org, 1-800-999-STATE, 610-252-3132