Rob Lake
American magician and illusionist (born 1982)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Robert William Calonkey, (born December 30, 1982), known professionally as Rob Lake, is an American magician and illusionist. He was a quarter-finalist on America's Got Talent in 2018.
Rob Lake | |
|---|---|
Lake in 2025 | |
| Born | 30 December 1982 |
| Occupations | Magician, illusionist |
| Website | www |
Career
Rob Lake was born Robert William Calonkey on December 30, 1982 in Norman, Oklahoma to Steve and Susy Calonkey.[1][2] Lake became interested in magic at age 10 when he saw the Kirby VanBurch show in Branson, Missouri. VanBurch soon became Rob's mentor along with another Oklahoma magician, Jim Smithson.
In 2005 at age 22, Rob embarked on his first international tour, performing in Japan for several months. Back in the US, Rob started performing his theatrical show for casinos and cruise ships, including Disney Cruise Line and Holland America Line.[3] In 2008 Rob became the youngest magician ever to receive a Merlin Award as the International Stage Magician of the Year.[4][5] Rob Lake performed several of his illusions for the international program, Great Magicians of the World that aired internationally in 2008 & 2009.
Rob Lake has performed across the US, from the Florida Keys to California. Notable performances include 3 tours in Japan, 4 tours in Europe including England, France, Germany, Norway, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, as well as Australia, Guam, Atlantis Bahamas, Dubai, India, Thailand, Hawaii and others.[6][7]
In 2013 Rob performed 8 illusions for Masters of Illusion (TV series) airing in 2014.[8][9][10] Rob Lake was featured on Elizabeth Stanton's Great Big World syndicated television series in 2013 and 2014.
Rob Lake was a featured act and quarter-finalist on season 13 of America's Got Talent.[11]
Operation Magic
Rob Lake performs an annual multi-month-long international tour to entertain US military, bringing his shows to troops stationed at bases in Europe and the Pacific.[12][13]
Broadway
Rob Lake and Kermit the Frog announced in August 2025 that Lake would be teaming up with The Muppets to perform magic on Broadway.[14] Rob Lake Magic with Special Guests the Muppets began previews on October 28 and opened on November 14 at the Broadhurst Theatre.[15] After 20 previews and four regular performances, Rob Lake Magic with Special Guests The Muppets closed November 16.[16]
Consultant
In addition to performing, Lake designs and creates special effects and illusions for film, television, plays, entertainers and musicals.