The Magic Castle
From Free net encyclopedia
The Magic Castle is a Hollywood landmark. The building is an authentic Victorian mansion built in 1908; it was taken over in 1963 by Milt Larsen, who converted it to its present state. The Magic Castle houses the Academy of Magical Arts and is also known for its Junior Program (the Magic Castle Junior Group). The Junior Group comprises highly skilled young magicians, many of whom have gone on to be well-known performers and professionals.
The Castle, located in the hills above Hollywood, is the most famous magic club in the world and is the destination for local and visiting magicians. Its first and largest illusion is its size -- the building appears much larger inside than it does from the outside. However, not everyone will have the opportunity to observe this, as The Magic Castle is a private club and only members and their guests are admitted. (Members can sponsor groups for special events as well.) A strict dress code (coat and tie for men, cocktail attire for women) is enforced, but the atmosphere inside among magicians is not formal.
One of the Castle's most famous members was the late Dai Vernon, an expert in sleight of hand, who often sat in the bar area entertaining and teaching. Vernon was the Magician-in-Residence at the castle for many years, up until his death in 1992.
The top magicians in the world perform in several different formats, including an intimate close-up room, a larger parlour, and a grand stage. Informal performances around the 5 bars give magicians the opportunity to learn from and impress peers. Members interested in magical research have access to a substantial library of resources.
At the Castle, visiting non-magicians can see the best of magic being performed close up. The first room of the Castle has no visible doors, and one must say "Open sesame" gain access, exposing the entrance to the club. Once inside, visitors can go to any of the five different shows, each of which change weekly, where magicians exhibit their skills, and can see Irma, a piano-playing ghost that takes requests.
Magicians must audition to join the Academy of Magical Arts and the Castle. Non-magicians can join, but only as associate members.