The
Magic Castle is both a building and a membership club in Hollywood, California
that is devoted to the art and craft of magic as an entertainment vehicle. Only members and their guests are allowed to
enter this castle-like structure. Inside
you will find a Victorian décor. Lots of
velvet, torches and secret passageways add to the fun. Bars and restaurants are in the castle as are
many performance venues. While there are
many levels of membership, Magician Members are actively practicing their craft
as a hobby or a career. Every night that
the Castle is open, you can watch members give performances. The castle is actually organized around a
non-profit academy devoted to the advancement of magic.
Image Source: wikipedia.org
To become a magician member, a person needs to apply, pay a membership
fee and be able to demonstrate a knowledge of magic and perform an audition in
front of an interview committee. Carl Rheuban,
who has practiced magic for 60 years, became a life member over 40 years ago. Since
Rheuban specializes in close-up and parlor effects with coins and cards, he fits
well into the Castle venue. In fact, the
structure contains venues specifically for close-up and parlor tricks.
Image Source: magiccastle.com
One effect that Carl Rheuban likes
to perform is one that he has up on YouTube, in which he changes five $1 bills
into five $100 bills before your eyes.
He notes that viewers love this trick, wishing they could make it work
for them when money is tight.
Image Source: tripadvisor.com
In addition, to receiving privileges
to visit the Castle, members can bring guests and can access one of the world’s
most extensive libraries on magic and related areas.
If you ever have the opportunity to
visit the Magic Castle, make sure you do so.
It is an experience you will not forget.
