Meet the New Merlynn: Smoky Takes the Stage

Smoky Takes the Name

Merlynn The Magic Cockatiel still headlines Leigh Hotz's comedy magic show. The bird in the tiny tuxedo is Smoky, who has taken over the role full time and performs under Merlynn's stage name. For audiences, very little changes: the card tricks, the mentalism and the mischief are all still there, delivered by a cockatiel who knows the act as well as anyone alive.

Years in the Wings

Smoky was never a stranger to the stage. He joined Leigh Hotz's ensemble years ago and performed alongside the original Merlynn, learning the routines from the wings and stepping in whenever the show needed him. He was in the coop through the night fright of June 2024 that took Merlynn, and he came through it. When the time came to carry the act forward, Smoky already knew the tricks, the timing and the cues, so the transition happened without a missed beat.

An Act That Keeps Growing

Smoky has not simply repeated what came before. He has begun weaving new elements into the show, so regulars who have watched Merlynn perform a dozen times still see something they have never seen before. His curiosity and his willingness to learn new routines have made him a natural headliner.

Two Stars, One Stage

Smoky is not carrying the show alone. Sky The Quaker Parrot, the young blue Quaker who joined the act as its second co-star, is training alongside him and will share the bill as the routines come together. The plan is a rotating double act: Smoky as Merlynn, Sky beside him, and a show that feels new every time the curtain goes up.

Come See the New Merlynn

Leigh Hotz's comedy magic show is family friendly and built for stages, schools, corporate events and private parties. If you would like to see Smoky perform as Merlynn, get in touch and Leigh will tell you where the birds are appearing next.