The Wacky World of Piff the Magic Dragon
John van der Put, known to the world as Piff the Magic Dragon, has been captivating audiences with his unique blend of comedy and magic for years. His stage name is more than just a catchy title—it’s a persona that combines humor, illusion, and a touch of whimsy. Piff often jokes about being the brother of a more famous dragon, Steve, which adds to the charm of his act.
Currently, Piff is on the road with his 2025 All-Star Vegas Tour, bringing his signature brand of entertainment to cities across the United States. As a fan of both comedy and magic, I was excited to have the opportunity to interview John. During our phone call, he greeted me with a typical grumpy tone that he often uses on stage, but it was clear that there was more to him than just the “dragon” image.
Piff’s tour features a variety of acts, including circus performers, comedians, and other magicians. He describes the show as a “big night of magic and variety,” and it’s clear that he enjoys working with his friends from Cirque du Soleil and America’s Got Talent.
From Gospel Magic to the Stage
Before becoming Piff the Magic Dragon, John had a different path in mind. Growing up, he was fascinated by magic and performed gospel magic shows, using traditional tricks while sharing his faith at local churches. This experience gave him valuable performance skills and allowed him to perform hundreds of shows before turning 21.
He also became a member of The Magic Circle, an organization dedicated to advancing the art of magic. At a young age, he was one of the youngest magicians to lecture there, a feat he credits to the support of the organization.
Despite his success in magic, John’s parents encouraged him to pursue a stable career. They advised him to get a degree in computer science, which he did. He worked in IT for a time, but it wasn’t the life he wanted. While it provided financial stability, it wasn’t enough to sustain his passion for performing.
The Birth of Piff
The story of how Piff the Magic Dragon came to be is as entertaining as his act. It all started when John attended a costume party without a costume. He borrowed one from his sister—a dragon costume—and ended up being the only person wearing it. That night sparked the idea for his now-famous character.
“I thought I’d give it a go and see what happens,” he recalls. “And it turned out to be the best thing that I ever did.”
His first performance as Piff was met with surprise, but it quickly gained traction. Audiences loved the uniqueness of his act, and it became a hit.
The Team Behind the Dragon
While Piff is the face of the show, he emphasizes that it’s a team effort. His dog, Mr. Piffles, plays a significant role in the act. According to Piff’s website, the dog has been levitated, laminated, and even shot out of a cannon—though all of these are part of the magic trickery. The current Mr. Piffles is actually the second generation, as the original dog passed away after 15 years of performances.
Piff’s wife, Jade Simone, is another key player in the act. She met John during a charity show, and they eventually fell in love. Their relationship has been a long-standing partnership, both professionally and personally.
Life Beyond the Stage
When not performing, John enjoys watching movies and playing video games. He admits it’s not the most exciting lifestyle, but it’s a way to relax after a busy schedule. If something were to happen to his career, he jokes that he would return to IT or perhaps become a writer. In fact, he has already written a book titled Piff the Magic Book, Volume 1, which spans 430 pages and covers his life as a magician.
The Upcoming Tour
Piff the Magic Dragon’s All-Star Vegas Tour continues through May 2026, with stops in cities like Seattle, Columbus, and Vancouver. Some of the upcoming dates include:
- Sept. 10 – Columbus, Ohio
- Sept. 11 – Lexington, Kentucky
- Sept. 12 – Nashville, Indiana
- Sept. 13 – Cincinnati, Ohio
- Sept. 14 – Seattle, Washington
- Sept. 15 – Victoria, BC
- Sept. 16 – Vancouver, BC
- Sept. 18 – Cranston, Rhode Island
- Sept. 19 – Nashua, New Hampshire
- Sept. 20 – Burnsville, Minnesota
For more details on the tour and to purchase tickets, visit Piff’s official website. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic and humor of Piff the Magic Dragon live.
