From Mute to Music & Magic
Meet Rachel Ling Gordon, a prodigious young star hailing from New York. At 11, this Asian American marvel is captivating hearts around the globe with her gift and extraordinary talents as a magician, actor, singer, pianist, and model.
Rachel’s journey unfolds like a magical tale. At the tender age of two and a half, Rachel was diagnosed with Selective Mutism – A severe anxiety disorder that prevented her from speaking up for years in the classroom and in public. Through her love for performing, Rachel transformed her life with unwavering dedication to her craft. From being mute as a child to turning around and touring the country on the Broadway National Tour of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” playing the lead role of Cindy Lou Who, Rachel has proven that magic can truly happen in the face of adversity.
Most recently, Rachel makes history as the youngest magician ever in all ten seasons of the hit show Penn & Teller: Fool Us, garnering accolades from the legendary duo Penn & Teller. Her magical debut not only captivates the live audience but also leaves them moved and spellbound, earning a well-deserved and unforgettable standing ovation.
In addition to her appearance on Penn & Teller, Rachel Ling Gordon has showcased her talents on various platforms. She sang on the World Premiere Recording of Chilina Kennedy’s new musical “Wild About You” alongside Broadway legends like Alex Newell, Lea Salonga and Katherine McPhee. Her endearing performance on the Mother Goose Club Playhouse YouTube channel charmed audiences, surpassing 30 million views. Rachel has also performed at prestigious venues including Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall, The Fox Theater, Smith Center, The Bushnell Center and many more.
Rachel’s voice can be heard in Gabby’s Dollhouse (DreamWorks Animation), Alma’s Way (PBS Kids), Noggin (Nick Jr.) and an upcoming new animated series on Nickelodeon. Her on-screen presence shines in commercials for iconic brands like Mattel, GoGo squeeZ, Simply Piano and Tommy Hilfiger. Her portrayal of Mary Quite Contrary, a Mother Goose Club favorite, comes to life on Netflix, PBS, and Amazon, complete with a character plush doll in her own image.
Beyond her mesmerizing performances, Rachel boasts an impressive array of talents, including winning gold medals and First Place Awards in international music competitions as a pianist at Carnegie Hall and strutting the runway as a seasoned model at New York Fashion Week. Rachel is also an honored recipient of the President’s Education Gold Award for outstanding academic excellence.
Rachel’s success is a testament not only to her unparalleled talent but also to her strength of character and resilience. Overcoming childhood anxiety, she proudly serves as an Ambassador for the Selective Mutism Association and SMart Center, inspiring children and families with her transformative story. For Rachel, each performance is a personal and joyous celebration of her remarkable journey from silence to a stage filled with music and magic.