Welcome
StageCraft FX is your go-to special effects solutions provider. We specialize in problem solving, creating and designing custom solutions for customers needing help with their theatrical or motion picture production.
If a specialized prop or set piece is needed, we have the solution for you!
A little About us
How it all Started
When Chris was 5 years old, he asked Santa for a magic set...
...and that's pretty much how it all started!
Fast-forward 10 years, Chris was working as a professional magician, performing for children's parties & local businesses. It was about this time when Chris got selected to be the official magician at Kings Island in Cincinnati, which was owned by Paramount at the time. While working there, Chris fell in love with the behind-the-camera world of motion pictures. Being completely surrounded by artists and creators, Chris knew this was the world he needed to be a part of. This is when Chris formed is first company, Light Power Magic LLC, which was devoted to inventing magic tricks for sale through global distribution and creating Special FX for local theatres and independent local films.
The Theatre
After several unfortunate injuries, Chris' dreams of playing collegiate football evaporated. It was at this time the theatre started calling his name. Being quite accustomed to performing for large audiences for his magic career, the dramatic stage was a perfect fit. This is also the time he learned how much fun it was to create set pieces and found himself spending nearly as much time working backstage as a tech as he did on stage as a performer. This is also the time when Chris realized his training in magic & illusion could play an important role in the world of theatre, solving tricky technical challenges often encountered when building props and set pieces.
He earned a BFA in Acting and continued growing his company and making a name for himself in the local theatre and film community.
Here Comes the Wizard
In early 2005, a well-known pyrotechnics and atmospheric SPFX company that recently moved to Cincinnati from the east coast reached out to Chris to join their crew. Originally brought on to be the Production Manager and head R&D for new products, Chris found his voice on the national stage as a de-facto SPFX consultant for countless theatrical and motion picture productions. Before long, Chris became the "biggest secret in show business," being the go-to person to ask for advise and help figuring out the best methods to achieve various effects, on any budget.
Over the course of the next 18 years, Chris assisted and advised the special effects for an estimated 25,000 productions.
And he can help you too!
And Now
Chris Wyllie has been very fortunate to contribute to so many productions and work with so many talented people. After nearly 20 years, he is returning to his roots of supporting the theatre community of the greater Cincinnati area and looking forward to training and mentoring the next generation of special effects artists.
Our time on this planet is short - and the show must go on!
May your days be filled with love, laughter, and a little magic!
Shawn Dion