Today we’d like to introduce you to Francisco Navarro.
Hi Francisco Navarro, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Born in Potato Rico 1965, oldest of 9 siblings to Puerto Rican parents. Father was a mechanic/laborer. Mother was home maker cook and worked in farm work later in life. During hard times, Father got enployment with a traveling carnival when I was 12. Mom worked in concessions while we traveled thru several states. I was raised to help my parents raise my siblings. Left the carnival, moved to Florida where we end up at a local church homeless. Parents found work and housing at a farm worker camp (Everglades). I startedd work in farmwork. Graduated high school, joined the Army at 19. Worked briefly with the Miami Dade public schools. Then worked at a local non for profit before joining the Air Force. Attended Miami Dade College for two years then served active duty at Homestead Air Reserve Base for 16 years as the Program Manager did the Base Honor Guard. Retired in 2021. Started my own company called Magic Arts Studios where with the help of my artistic family (wife and two kids) I direct theatrical plays, design and build sets, costumes, prop and special effects. I also design and build community haunted houses, served as Santa Claus, Batman and the Grinch for over 30 years. Volunteered all my life food local schools and community programs. I like Start Trek, Elvis and read comic books. My age is 61, but the 10 year old is still very much inside me. My hobbies include art, wood work projects and watching movies. My best roles is husband and father.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Typical hardships with money, moving constantly. Raised with a tormented father who drank a lot and had a real bad temper. My siblings and I all suffer from some form of childhood PTSD. My mom suffered the worst trying to feed us and raise us. My father died of lung cancer never finding peace. I lost one brother to a motorcycle accident at age 19 and another brother was killed on Memorial Day two months after my dade died of cancer. I witness the abuse of my mother when I was a child. I was raised to be put on a pedestal only to suffer falling from that same pedestal many times. I had severe issues making relationships last. My lowest point was finding no reason to go on if not for the birth of my first born son.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I started MagicArts Studios to pursue a life of artwork, cosplay, theatrical fx and scenery design. I can create special fx props such as The Beauty and the Beast Enchanted rose with Led lights and falling pedals. I’ve been a professional Santa Claus for close to 40 years and enjoy playing Santa to children. I also enjoy portraying a professional Batman for local schools and events. I enjoy collaborating with other like minded talented artists and produce live shows. I’m proud of my Military service. Having served in the Air Force Honor Guard, presenting the colors to events such as the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, Marlins and Panthers, but I’m most proud rendering honors to the families of fallen military members by folding and presenting the US flag to the next of kin for 20 years.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
We’re often very poor and didn’t get much on Christmas, but one year waking up to find gifts was magical. Hearing Elvis for the first time and watching Star trek after school.
Pricing:
- Varies depending on project.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Magicartsstudiosflorida
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1HDv3uthS7/
