At the heart of the Performing Hypnosis Summit, held in Las Vegas, is a belief that stage hypnosis is more than just entertainment — it’s a craft, a responsibility, and a community. Each year, the Summit proudly recognises those who have gone above and beyond with the Stage Hypnotist of the Year Award, honouring performers who not only deliver outstanding shows but actively contribute to the growth, integrity, and future of entertainment hypnosis.
Unlike awards that focus purely on ticket sales or popularity, the Stage Hypnotist of the Year Award is about giving back. It celebrates performers who mentor others, uphold ethical standards, promote positive public awareness of hypnosis, and help keep the art alive for future generations. These are the hypnotists who share knowledge freely, support fellow performers, and raise the bar for what a professional stage hypnosis show can be.
The Jim Kellner Legacy
In recent years, the award has proudly become known as the Jim Kellner Stage Hypnotist of the Year Award, recognising not just excellence on stage, but Jim Kellner’s lifelong dedication to the hypnosis community. Jim was a performer, mentor, and connector — someone who believed deeply in collaboration over competition and in lifting others as you climb.
The award stands as a tribute to that philosophy. Every recipient reflects Jim’s values: professionalism, generosity, and a genuine commitment to advancing the field of stage hypnosis worldwide.
Supported by the Community, Sponsored by Corrie J
A vital part of keeping this legacy alive is the ongoing support of those who believe in it. The Stage Hypnotist of the Year Award is proudly sponsored by fellow hypnotist Corrie J, whose commitment to the community mirrors the very values the award represents.
Corrie J’s sponsorship is a statement of support for ethical performance, positive representation, and the continued elevation of stage hypnosis as a respected form of entertainment. By sponsoring the award, Corrie helps ensure that outstanding contributors to the field are recognised, remembered, and celebrated.
More Than an Award
Each year at the Performing Hypnosis Summit, the presentation of this award becomes a powerful moment of reflection. It’s a pause in the schedule where the room comes together — performers from around the world united by a shared craft, to honour those who have shaped the path they now walk.
The Stage Hypnotist of the Year Award is not about ego. It’s about legacy. It’s about recognising the people who protect the reputation of hypnosis, inspire confidence in audiences, and ensure that stage hypnosis continues to evolve, thrive, and be taken seriously.
As the Performing Hypnosis Summit continues to grow, so too does the importance of celebrating those who give their time, experience, and passion back to the community. These awards remind us that while great performances entertain an audience for a night, great contributors shape the industry for a lifetime.
Stage Hypnotist of the Year winners
2026 Kevin Lepine
Kevin Lepine is a respected stage hypnotist known for his engaging performances and long-standing commitment to ethical, entertaining hypnosis. Beyond the stage, Kevin has consistently contributed to the wider hypnosis community through mentoring, education, and supporting the next generation of performers. His work reflects a deep respect for the craft and its future. Kevins website
2025 Tom Silver
Tom Silver is widely recognised as one of the most influential educators in modern hypnosis. Through decades of teaching, writing, and live training, Tom has helped shape countless professional hypnotists around the world. His contribution goes far beyond performance, focusing on standards, safety, and the long-term development of hypnosis as a respected profession.
2024 Sailesh Jiawan
Sailesh Jiawan is known for blending powerful stage performance with professionalism and integrity. His work has helped elevate public understanding of stage hypnosis while inspiring performers to present the art responsibly. Sailesh’s dedication to both entertainment and education has made a lasting impact on the hypnosis community. visit website
2023 Terry Stokes
Terry Stokes is a true ambassador for stage hypnosis, recognised not only for his performances but for his generosity, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes contributions to the community. Terry has consistently supported fellow performers and industry initiatives, helping preserve the positive reputation and future growth of entertainment hypnosis. Visit Website
