Northwest celebrity showman John Curley brings his electrifying auctioneering skills to host the live auction portion of San Juan Community Theatre’s Holiday Festival 2011: “A Touch of Magic,”  Saturday, Dec. 3.

Curley, host of Seattle’s KIRO-FM and  former host of King-5 Evening Magazine, has been an auctioneer for several years, helping to raise millions of dollars for Northwest nonprofits and schools.  He made his Holiday Festival debut last year, wowing islanders with his charm, wit and fast-paced entertaining style.

“I had an absolute ball—even though I tore the seat right out of my pants,” Curley said.  “I’ve got a few more tricks up my sleeve for this year, including 100 dollar bill bits glued to my forehead.  I can’t wait to come back to see everyone!”

In addition to Curley’s participation, the festival also features fine wine, gourmet appetizers, and live cooking supper stations from Roche Harbor Resort’s Bill Shaw and staff.

There will be an array of live auction items featuring several getaways to San Francisco and Ketchikan, art, fine dining and more.

Participants can enjoy music from Amanda Brast, Susan Williams and Keith Busha — plus dancing with the Chameleons.

Electronic catalogs of the live and silent auction items are at  www.sjctheatre.org

In addition to being an evening to celebrate the season with island friends, the Holiday Festival is the nonprofit theater’s largest fundraiser of the year, raising money to ensure that its high quality of community events and entertainment continue.

Tickets are $85 per person and can be purchased by calling Chance Earle at 378-3211, ext. 32.