‘Riverdale’ star and death-defying magician to perform at ISU AfterDark

Camila+Mendes%C2%A0speaking+at+the+2017+WonderCon+in+Anaheim%2C+California.

Courtesy of Gage Skidmore

Camila Mendes speaking at the 2017 WonderCon in Anaheim, California.

Margaret Troup

The first ISU AfterDark of the semester will host actress Camila Mendes and magician Nate Staniforth in the Great Hall on Friday. Staniforth will perform at 9 p.m., Mendes promptly following at 11 p.m.

Mendes is best known for her work on the popular CW show “Riverdale,” where she portrays Veronica Lodge. Mendes will be on stage talking about her past work experiences and possible future works, as well as delving into her behind-the-scenes life.

Mendes’ previous works include the 2018 film “The New Romantic.” Mendes has also recently finished filming the upcoming movie “The Perfect Date.”

Preceding Mendes is Staniforth, a seasoned magician and the author of the book, “Here is Real Magic.” Currently, Staniforth is on tour around the country, proving his magic skills to thousands.

In the past, Staniforth has been featured on Discovery Channel with his own segment “Breaking Magic.” In this special, he risked his life by lying under a sword dangling from the ceiling. He had to rely on a ball to fly across the room and knock the sword out of his pathway. Staniforth is known for these types of death-defying acts.

According to his website, “Nate’s shows feel more like jumping out of an airplane than a night at a comedy club.”

“Camila Mendes will be talking about her experiences as an actress in a Q & A,” said Diane Sullivan, director of performing arts for the Student Union Board. “We try to cover different types of audiences. ‘Riverdale’s’ got a good following.”

Every event at ISU AfterDark is free and requires no tickets to enter. Additional free activities to enjoy during AfterDark include bingo, free Panda Express, karaoke, bowling and a workspace craft where you can make your own Iowa State-themed hand warmers. ISU AfterDark’s activities start at 9 p.m. and are open through 1 a.m.