An hypnotic experience for some and a comedic evening for others, the voice of Vancouver-based hypnotist John Ketlo was the focus of over 100 people in the Stellat’en First Nation community hall on Aug. 31.
The Nadleh Whut’en native is the Salmon Fest’s local artist feature of the year; attendees had the opportunity to listen to musician Stacy Reynolds during the last festival, said coordinator Juanita Heron.
“Tonight we’re going to sleep together, but not in the way you understand,” said Ketlo.
Assisted by his niece Tahlia Ketlo and atmospheric music, Ketlo took the minds of the audience and his adventurous volunteers to various parts of the world, cracking up the viewers with the hypnotic antics of those on stage.
Ketlo performed his first hypnosis show last Halloween for a local sawmill staff party, which also took place in Stellat’en’s hall. For Ketlo, who also performed hypnotic therapy in the past, hypnosis is a tool that, like a hammer, can build or destruct depending on the hands it’s in.
“On comedy stage, it’s fun,” he said. “Hypnosis can be used for structuring mental and emotional capabilities.”
By improving the mind’s focus through hypnosis, people can more likely manifest what they desire.
“You have to have a six-pack in your mind before getting a six-pack on the body,” he said.
Having also studied theatre improvisation and music, the 36-year-old entertainer is also a heavy metal guitar-singer and is now looking to focus on developing his acting career.
“I’m in danger of becoming a jack of too many jades, but they lift each other up,” Ketlo said. “My goal in life is love, wisdom, and knowledge, in the arena engaging everyday.
“Consistency is powerful; as long as you practice every day you become amazing.”