David Copperfield has built the world's most extensive collection of items related to magic, and guests who have visited the displays he has created in a large Las Vegas building marvel at what they are able to see there. The New-York Historical Society has brought a selection of objects from Copperfield's collection to New York which they are showcasing in the exhibition Summer of Magic: Treasures from the David Copperfield Collection, which runs through September 16. In our audio interview (click the player below to listen), the show's curator, Cristian Petru Panaite talks about his process of working with Copperfield to organize the exhibition and gives an overview of the materials on display. Panaite also talks about his own perspective on the meaning of magic and why it is a topic worthy of consideration in a museum like the New-York Historical Society.

The colorful and alluring exhibit features items related to Alexander Herrmann, Harry Kellar, Harry and Bess Houdini, Howard Thurston, Chung Ling Soo (William Robinson), Adelaide Herrmann, Alexander, the Man Who Knows, and numerous others from the 1880s through the 1930s, what the exhibition refers to as "The Golden Age of Magic." Some of the most notable items relate to Houdini, including his Metamorphosis trunk, a milk can, and a costume worn by Bess Houdini. It is also striking to see one of the rifles used by William Robinson in his guise of Chung Ling Soo, in the bullet catch act, which eventually resulted in his death while performing it. The exhibition also features a case full of the types of tricks purchased in magic shops over decades and that will be the envy of anyone who ever covetously paged through the catalog of a favorite magic shop. There also is a selection of stunning, large lithographs, and visitors will have the chance to see one of Copperfield's most well-known illusions.

The Historical Society has also been presenting an extensive series of magic-related programming throughout the summer. Remaining events include today's (August 26) demonstration of a magic lantern show, and a final weekend of performances on September 15 and 16 featuring Duffy Hudson as Harry Houdini.

The New-York Historical Society is located at 170 Central Park West at 77th Street. For more information about Summer of Magic: https://www.nyhistory.org/summer-magic.

The location of the longstanding group of magicians that meets on Saturdays in New York has changed. The new location, at least for now, is upstairs at 33 Gourmet Deli, at 157 West 33rd Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues. The Saturday magicians group has met regularly for decades, according to some longtime members since the 1940s. Prior locations include the Governor Cafeteria, and Reubens Deli. Until recently the group had been meeting at Cafe Rustico, a pizza restaurant on 35th Street, which has closed.

The group has been one of the hubs of the New York City magic community, a place to learn from other magicians, share knowledge, try out new tricks, and pick up the latest news. Over the years many notable magicians have attended the get-togethers during the course of working on their skills and building their careers, however it is a resource that is available to anyone who is interested in magic. We have a separate write up about the group in our Magic Guide (scroll down until you find the blog post "Magic Guide, NYC).

We will stay up to date on the status of the group's locations and report back with an update if anything changes.

Patrick Terry has launched "Magic Hour" a series of events featuring performances and interviews with notable magicians. Tina Lenert and Mike Caveney will appear in the series on June 6, followed by Eric Dittelman on June 20 and Harrison Greenbaum on June 27. The series launched May 23rd with an appearance by Andrew Goldenhersh. 

Tina Lenert is an American magician, mime and harpist. She has performed worldwide and is known for combining elements of pantomime and magic. For many years she has been a regular performer at the world famous Magic Castle, in Hollywood where she has been voted Stage Magician of the Year by the Academy of Magical Arts.

Mike Caveney has performed professionally for over forty years and each of his original routines is perfectly suited to his dry comedic wit. He is a member of the most prestigious group of magicians in the world, The Inner Magic Circle of London, England. He was voted Stage Magician of the Year by the members of Hollywood's Magic Castle. Mike's talents have taken him from Japan to Russia, from Monte Carlo to Borneo, Australia, China, throughout Europe and most of the 50 States. 

Patrick Terry Presents Magic Hour is presented at the Triad Theater at 158 West 72nd Street, and tickets can be purchased through their web site at triadnyc.com.

Upcoming New York City Magic Shows, Events, Get-Togethers & More
As of: June 4, 2018

Magic Shows and Events

Amazeballs
June 21, July 19, August 16, at 10 p.m.
Hosted by mentalist Eric Dittelman, Amazeballs provides an opportunity for magicians to experiment with new material. Plus the show presents a different featured comedy act each month.
Creek and the Cave, 10-93 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, New York
For more information: http://creeklic.com/events/amazeballs-2018-06-21/

​A Taste of Magic
A Taste of Magic includes dinner plus tableside performances of close-up magic between courses of the meal. Guests usually see three or four magicians at their table as well as tricks performed for the whole room by the show's host. 
Friday, June 8, at 8 p.m., Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Saturday, June 16, at 8 p.m., Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
Friday, June 22, at 8 p.m., Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, 148 West 51st Street
Saturday, June 30, Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Friday, July 6, Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Saturday, July 14, at 8 p.m., Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
Friday, July 20,  Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Saturday, July 28, at 8 p.m., Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
For more information: atasteofmagicnyc.com

Chamber Magic, featuring Steve Cohen
Fridays at 7 and 9 p.m.; Saturdays at 2, 7 and 9 p.m.
Cohen's long running show (which has a dress code for audience members) harks to an earlier era of parlor magic. Cohen has drawn together rarely seen effects from a across a span of magic's history for an effective and very entertaining evening of magic. Chamber Magic is now performed at Lotte New York Palace Hotel, 455 Madison Avenue (b/t 50th & 51st Streets). For more information: www.chambermagic.com, or 866-811-4111.

David Blaine
July 12 and 14, Kings Theater, Brooklyn
Blaine will cap off a summer tour of live performances with a two evening stint at the King's Theater in Brooklyn, finally giving New York audiences the chance to see his stage show. Blaine's fans will also have the chance to see the lavish Kings Theater. The venue originally opened in 1929 but was empty from 1977 until an extensive renovation which led to a reopening in 2015. For more information: davidblaine.com
​
In & of Itself
Created and Performed by Derek DelGaudio.
The run has been extended and tickets are currently on sale through August 19
DelGaudio's innovative show explores new territory in magic.
Daryl Roth Theatre
101 East 15th Street
For more information, click here.

Magic After Hours, with Noah Levine
The show provides an insider's view of Tannen's magic shop, focusing on its history and legacy, as well as a performance of close-up magic by Noah Levine. The show tends to play most Tuesdays and Wednesdays although performances often are scheduled on other days of the week. 8 p.m. at Tannen's Magic, 45 West 34th Street, 6th Floor. For tickets and more information: www.magicafterhours.com

Magic at Coney
The Magic at Coney series presents a rotating bill of three or four performers each week in an area rich in magic history. Sundays at noon at the Coney Island Museum, 1208 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn
For more information and tickets: www.coneyisland.com/programs/magic-coney

Magicienne Among the Spirits, featuring Belinda Sinclair
Performances Thursday through Sunday in a location within walking distance of Times Square (address disclosed after tickets are purchased). The show is performed for a group of 8 to 10 people in Belinda's "secret conjuring room." It is an intimate show that includes a focus on magic history with a particular look at conjuring's female masters. Also includes pre-show tea and biscuits. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2993182

Monday Night Magic
June 11, at 8 p.m., featuring: David Corsaro, Chris McDaniel, and Eric Dittelman  (headliner), with Master of Ceremonies, Ben Nemzer. Close-up performances at intermission by Mike Patrick and Matias Letelier
June 18, at 8 p.m. featuring: Torkova, Jeff Moche and Erin Raven (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, David Corsaro. Close-up performances at intermission by Brandon Williams
June 25, at 8 p.m., featuring: Michael Karas, David Oliver and Harrison Greenbaum (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, Todd Robbins. Close-up performances at intermission by Eric Brown and TJ Tana
July 2, at 8 p.m. Alexander Boyce, Jon Armstrong and Chris Capehart (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, David Corsaro. Close-up performances by Mike Patrick and Patrick Davis.
July 9, at 8 p.m., featuring: Dave Chandler, Chistopher Taylor and Michael Chaut (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, Todd Robbins. Close-up performances at intermission by Alexander Boyce and Matias Letlier
July 16, at 8 p.m., featuring: Torkova, Throwdini, and Peter Samelson (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, Todd Robbins. Closeup magic at intermission by Richard Cohn and Michael Chaut.
​Players Theatre, 125 MacDougal Street. For information: mondaynightmagic.com, 718-575-1349

Parlor of Mystery
Sunday, June 24, at 7 p.m. The FFFF'D-Up Magic Show with performances by Jim Vines, David Schwartz, Mark Zacharia and Mike Maione
Sunday, July 22, at 7 p.m. Comedy Magic Show, with performances by Harrison Greenbaum, Steve Friedberg, James Lazzarini, and Joe Silkie
South Shore Theatre Experience, 115 South Wellwood Ave.Lindenhurst, NY (Long Island)
For more information: parlorofmystery.com, 631-669-0506
Parlor of Mystery shows are held the fourth Sunday of every month.

Patrick Terry Presents Magic Hour
This series features performances and interviews with notable magicians.
June 6: Tina Lenert and Mike Caveny
June 20: Eric Dittelman
June 27: Harrison Greenbaum
Triad Theater, 158 West 7snd Street.
For tickets: triadnyc.com
(please note that in addition to the ticket price, there is a two-drink minimum)

Sam Eaton's The Quantum Eye: Magic and Mentalism Show
The show plays most Saturdays at 4 p.m. Please check the current schedule via the Quantum Eye web site.
Theatre 80, 80 Saint Mark's Place
For more information: www.thequantumeye.com

Six Impossible Things, featuring Joshua Jay
June 1 through July 28
Joshua Jay's show is billed as an immersive close-up magic show that involves moving through the performance space. The audience is limited to 20 members at each performance.
The Mist, 59 Canal Street. For more information: www.siximpossiblethingsshow.com

Lectures and Seminars

Shin Lim - Meet and Greet, followed by Lecture
June 30, 2018, 6 p.m.
at Fantasma Magic. Shin Lim will participate in a free Meet and Greet from 1 to 4 p.m. The lecture is scheduled for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Various seating options are available. For more information, click: here.

Henry Evans Meet and Greet, Show and Lecture
June 13, 2018
Henry Evans will participate in a free Meet and Greet on Tuesday, June 12 and then wlll appear in a show followed by a lecture on Wednesday, June 14. Various ticketing packages are available. For more information, click: here


Get-Togethers

Saturday Magicians Get-Together
Saturdays from approximately noon to 5 p.m.
33 Gourmet Deli, at 157 West 33rd Street
Magicians gather on Saturdays, in a longstanding tradition to share information, help each other with tricks, and socialize (the group traces its heritage to the 1940s). The get-together is attended by magicians of all levels from beginners to working pros. Many future magic greats got their start by learning from fellow magicians at this weekly meet-up. Among the regular attendees are a core group of skilled practitioners, all of whom are willing to pass along knowledge to other magicians. Anyone interested in magic is welcome to attend. The group has recently moved to a new location on West 33rd STreet (see above) after many years at a pizza restaurant on 35th Street.

The Magic Table
Fridays at 1 p.m.
Times Square Diner & Grill, 807 Eighth Avenue (49th Street)
The Magic Table is another longstanding gathering for magicians. It has always been based in the Times Square area, harking to the time when the neighborhood was home to multiple magic businesses like the Tannen's and Max Holden magic stores. This get-together often stretches out from lunchtime until early evening as magicians schmooze over omelets, sandwiches, and soup. It is frequented by a group of dedicated regulars as well as magicians visiting New York and occasional surprise guests. (See a Today show piece about the group here).

Magnets
Wednesday evenings, 6 p. m.
Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Magnets is a newer group that meets for weekly jam sessions and workshops and also occasionally sponsors its own lectures, workshops and shows. Although everyone is welcome, the group skews toward magicians in their 20s and 30s, supporting each other with feedback on performances, booking and marketing information, and help achieving long-term goals. Many of the Magnets members perform in the show, A Taste of Magic, which is a spin-off of the group. Anyone interested in magic is welcome to attend the Wednesday night sessions.

Magic Societies, New York City Chapters

New York is home to chapters of two separate international magic societies, The International Brotherhood of Magicians and the Society of American Magicians.

International Brotherhood of Magicians, Ring 26
The Harry Roz-On Ring of the I. B. M. meets the last Friday of each month at the Associated Musicians of Greater New York, 322 West 48th Street. The group presents frequent shows by members and by special guests as well as regular Lab sessions where members teach magic. The I. B. M. is characterized by a strong community of members who share in their love of magic. For information about joining, please write the group's President, Jim Stranges, at: [email protected]. 

Society of American Magicians, Parent Assembly, #1
The S. A. M. was founded in New York in 1902. After the group expanded nationally, the local chapter became known as Parent Assembly, #1. Parent Assembly meets the first Friday of each month. Meetings are often held at Fantasma Magic but special shows are sometimes held elsewhere. Parent Assembly meetings offer a wide variety of programming ranging from lectures with notable magicians to performances by members, historical talks, and seasonal celebrations. PA1 also presents a monthly workshop which features instruction by noted magician Doug Edwards. For information about joining Parent Assembly, please contact Membership Committee Chairman, Steve Okulewicz, at: [email protected]​.

Society of Young Magicians
The first Saturday of every month, except July and August, from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Tannen's Magic, 45 West 34th Street, 6th Floor 
Young magicians (18 years and below) gather to learn from each other as well as a special guest every meeting. The group often gets opportunities to perform for lay-people and professional magicians alike. Tricks are taught, critiques are given and young magicians can collaborate and have fun. This is for any young person interested in magic, including folks who are first starting out or are at an intermediate level. For more information about the SYM, contact Cory Bragar at: [email protected]​.

New York City's Magic Shops

Tannen's, 45 West 34th Street, Suite 608, 212-929-4500
Tannen's is New York's oldest magic shop and is a hub of magic activity in the city. The store's Chief demonstrator Magick Balay and a crew of other skilled staff keep a stream of tricks flowing from behind the counter while often a wide range of magicians, magic lovers, (and parents of budding magicians) hang out at the table in the center of the room. Notable magicians are known to pop by and the store is on the itinerary of many conjurors visiting from out-of-town. Although the decor feels a bit home-grown, the store is very well-stocked with the latest tricks, an extensive selection of books and DVDs as well as supplies and basics like cards, silks, rope, flash paper, etc. There is a treasure of magic books - which may be borrowed free of charge. Just look to the left of the large elephant in the room. www.tannens.com

Fantasma Magic, 213 West 35th Street, 212-233-3633
Fantasma, which recently moved a couple blocks to a new location, is characterized by its personable staff as well as by the extensive collection of rare and original Houdini memorabilia on display. These include a selection of professionally displayed posters, handcuffs, photographs, props and other items. The displays of Houdini materials take up the majority of the space in the shop. It is definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in the noted escape artist. Although Fantasma's stock may not be as deep as Tannen's, the store carries a wide range of interesting items including some unique and collectible tricks, a wide selection of playing cards and an extensive selection of second hand books including some hard-to-find classic volumes. Many of the products Fantasma sells are those manufactured by their parent toy company, including a smorgasbord of magic sets and individual tricks. www.fantasmamagic.com

Abracadabra, 19 West 21st Street, New York City, NY
Abracadabra has a magic section within the larger store that sells costumes and other items.
www.abracadabranyc.com

Halloween Adventure, 808 Broadway
Halloween Adventure also has a magic section in its large store.
www.newyorkcostumes.com

Fantasma Magic is presenting events with Henry Evans and Shin Lim in June. Henry Evans will visit the shop on June 12th for a free meet and greet session from 4 to 6 p.m., and will appear in a show and separate lecture the following day. Shin Lim will appear at Fantasma on June 30th, participating in a free meet and greet from 1 to 4 p.m. and a lecture at 6 p.m.

Shin Lim and Henry Evans are both award-winning magicians with international reputations. For example, they both are winners of the magic competition at FISM, the Federation of International Magic Societies, which is considered an outstanding distinction in the world of magic.

Tickets for Henry Evans's performance are priced at $25 for regular seating and $35 for VIP seating. Tickets for his lecture are $20 for regular seating and $35 for VIP seating. A combined ticket for Henry Evans's performance and lecture is $35 for regular seating and $50 for VIP seating.To purchase tickets for the Henry Evans events, click here.

Tickets for Shin Lim's lecture may be purchased for $25 (regular seating) or $50 (VIP seating and a "secret bonus"). Fantasma notes that on June 24, the price for the Shin Lim lecture will be raised to $35.

This Summer The New-York Historical Society is focusing on magic with a wide range of presentations including a rare public exhibition of items from David Copperfield's extensive collection of materials documenting the history of the art. The acclaimed magician has created elaborate displays of materials from his collection in his private museum in Las Vegas, however that facility is not open to the general public. The viewing of these items in New York provides an opportunity for magic lovers to see such treasures from Copperfield's collection as the Metamorphosis Trunk used by Harry and Bess Houdini, handcuffs from Houdini's 1904 London Daily Mirror challenge, Houdini's milk can used for his milk can escape, a dress believed to have been worn by Adelaide Herrmann, Harry Kellar's Nested Boxes illusion, props belonging to Alexander the Man who Knows, A. C. Gilbert magic sets, items from Tannen's catalog and much more. The materials will be shown here in the exhibition Summer of Magic:Treasures from the David Copperfield Collection, which runs June 15 through September 16. 

The Society has a very wide range of magic related programming planned for its Summer of Magic, including events for families, historical talks, magic performances, workshops, free film screenings and much more. This includes an appearance by David Copperfield on June 16 in conversation with United States Congressman (and magician) Marc Pocan, who worked with Copperfield on the "Magic as an Art" resolution in Congress. Other events over the course of the summer will feature appearances by magicians Kent Axell, Eric Walton, Joshua Jay, and Tanya Solomon; magic historian Margaret Steel, in a talk about Adelaide Herrmann; and Gabriella Corey who will discuss magic's early history. The extensive schedule reveals an impressive commitment on the part of the Society to magic this summer. 

The New-York Historical Society is located at 170 Central Park West at 77th Street. For more information about their Summer of Magic presentations, including a listing of the events and links to purchase tickets, visit: nyhistory.org/summer-magic
​
A selection of images from Summer of Magic: Treasures from the David Copperfield Collection

Mario Marchese, who has gained acclaim in the New York City area for his innovative performances for family audiences is appearing as the opening act for David Blaine in the tour through the United States and Canada that is currently underway. The tour began in San Diego May 6 and ends at the King's Theater in Brooklyn with performances on July 12 and 14. A total of 37 shows are planned. According to Mario's wife and Manager, Katie Rosa Marchese, "Mario is opening David Blaine's show with a 10 to 15 minute set that uplifts the kids in the audience and features some of Mario’s signature routines, including robotics." Katie was hesitant to give away more specifics, so maybe there are surprises in store, especially considering that the performances in the 3,000 to 4,000 seat houses in which the Blaine show is playing puts Mario in front of audiences much larger than those for whom he has customarily performed in live settings. 

Mario previously worked as a consultant for Blaine, helping him to develop his stage act for his first tour last summer. Mario and Blaine met through Asi Wind when Blaine asked for a recommendation for a children's magician. It turned out Blaine was seeking someone to perform with him at a party hosted by Robert DeNiro (for more on this connection, visit Maro and Katie's YouTube channel. 

Marchese's act interweaves magic, physical comedy and new age robotic programming into an act that is stylistically flavored by the traditions of vaudeville and other genres of earlier eras. In addition to touring his own show to venues around the country Marchese has performed on Sesame Street and Sprout TV. For more detailed perspective on his act, his inspirations, and the way he has integrated his family and professional life see the recent interview he conducted for the Parent Assembly of the Society of American magicians as well as Mario's YouTube channel which features the "It's a Family Business" series that details the adventures of the Marchese family. More information about Mario is also available at mariothemagician.comwww.mariothemagician.com

​###

The Great Kaplan will appear in New York from May 23 to 27 as part of the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret, running at the Cutting Room. The Great Kaplan (the alias of David Kaplan) performs a zany vaudeville-flavored routine that features many magical mishaps. Kaplan also performs hat tricks and juggling and usually demonstrates his musical expertise with a virtuoso performance using a squeaking balloon. A profile in Magic Magazine explained that after Kaplan takes the stage "within the next few moments his props will be destroyed, his ego will be deflated his nerves will be jangled, and his audience will be sent into fits of hysterical laughter." Although the Great Kaplan has appeared on national television, won multiple magic competitions, and opened for a wide range of high profile acts, the appearance with the Bindlestiff Cirkus marks his New York City stage debut.

Featuring a cast of circus and variety luminaries led by Bindlestiff co-founders Stephanie Monseu and Keith Nelson, this year’s Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret flirts with the delicate balance between stunning success and exquisite failure. The cast will take audiences on a journey fraught with peril, witnessing a walk atop champagne bottles and the swallowing of a three-foot butterfly knife. With effervescent aerial displays and captivating presentations of legerdemain, the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret promises a delightful escape from the every day.

In addition to The Great Kaplan, The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret features cast members Keith Nelson (vaudevillian juggler and sideshow marvel), Stephanie Monseu (emcee and instigator), Evan Ruggiero (triple threat, singer, actor, and one-legged tap dancer) and Chloe Somers Wall (delightfully daring aerial acrobat). The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Band features Robert Cowie on keyboards and Eric Biondo on trumpet and beats. The show is directed by Michelle Matlock, originator of The Ladybug role in Cirque du Soleil’s “Ovo”.

The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret will appear at The Cutting Room, 44 East 32nd Street, May 23 to 27. The run features three weeknight performances which are for adults only, and two weekend matinees for the whole family. For tickets and more information, go to: http://www.bindlestiff.org/events/bindlestiff-family-cirkus-cabaret-at-the-cutting-room/

The Parent Assembly of the Society of American Magicians has created a new YouTube channel featuring interviews with magicians and members of the New York magic community. The first two interviews feature Xavier Spade and Mario Marchese. The interviews are conducted by Herb Scher, who is both a Board Member of the Parent Assembly and the editor of this blog! The conversations happen to both touch on the intersection of magic and new technology, showing two very different responses to the latest digital and electronic tools.

If you weren't able to make it to the "Magicians of Coney Island" event at the Brooklyn Public Library in March, Chloe Olewitz's article published on Genii Online, provides an interesting overview of the event as well as additional background information. The progam traced the history of magic at Coney Island  with commentary and a presentation of historical images as well as performances illustrating the type of magic performed at Coney Island throughout the years. The panelists participating in the event were Richard Cohn, Mark Mitton, Herb Scher (who served as Moderator) and Georg Schindler. The article can be found at: https://geniionline.com/articles/four-magicians-bring-the-fascinating-history-of-coney-island-to-life-at-brooklyn-public-library

Joshua Jay will present an immersive close-up magic event, Six Impossible Things, this June and July in Manhattan. The show will be directed by Luke Jermay and presented at The Mist, a Downtown venue with multiple individual environments which is designed to host "live interactive fiction." 

The show is performed for twenty people at a time. Audience members will move through several rooms where a new mystery unfolds to reveal an impossible "thing". During the course of 75 minutes Jay will attempt to read thoughts, manipulate decisions and even alter taste buds. Jay says that he has been working on the show for three years, although the concept has evolved in that time.

"I've lived in New York for ten years now, and I've thought about a one-man show here every single day of that time," Jay said in response to a question from Herb's Magic about his inspiration for the show. "But I always found a reason not to do it. That ten-year mark hit me hard. So, I wisely decided to launch a show in summer, the weakest season for theater, at the only moment in the last thirty years when there are SEVEN magic shows running in New York. 

"In many ways the show is reactionary. My career has been spent doing magic that I'm proud of, but always magic that is easily accessible. I began to develop this vision for a new concept for a magic show, based more on experiencing magic than watching it. I saw potential in putting magic in different environments, and making each audience member take risks with me, outside their comfort zone. I heard Bruce Springsteen in an interview say an amazing thing. He said, "As a creative person, you build your box, and then you escape from it." I have found that to be very true. I built a box as a smiling, happy magician that entertains audiences 8-80. Now it's my turn to escape from that mold."

Jay has held a visible role in magic starting as a teenager. Aside from performing frequently for a wide range of audiences, he has created numerous original magic effects many of which are marketed through Vanishing Inc., the company he runs with Andy Gladwin. Jay and Gladwin also produce two magic conferences annually, MagiFest in Columbus, Ohio and The Gathering in London. Jay has appeared on the Today show and Good Morning America, and also performed on Penn and Teller: Fool Us, where he fooled the duo with an original effect. He is the author of popular books about magic, including Magic: The Complete Course, a widely distributed text that has introduced readers of all ages to the art of conjuring.

Six Impossible Things
SixImpossibleThingsShow.com
At The Mist, 59 Canal Street, June 1 through July 28, 2018

Upcoming New York City Magic Shows, Events, Get-Togethers & More
As of: April 12, 2018

Magic Shows and Events

109th Salute to Magic
April 14, 7:30 p.m.
With performances by Mike Bent, John Bundy & Morgan, Harrison Greenbaum, David Kaye, Krystyn Lambert, Keith Nelson, Elliot Zimet
​Presented by the Parent Assembly of the Society of American Magicians
Fashion Institute of Technolgy's Haft Theater, 227 West 27th Street, New York, NY
www.salutetomagic.com, 800-838-3006

Amazeballs
April 19, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, at 10 p.m.
Hosted by mentalist Eric Dittelman, Amazeballs provides an opportunity for magicians to experiment with new material. Plus the show presents a different featured comedy act each month.
Creek and the Cave, 10-93 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, New York
For more information: http://creeklic.com/events/amazeballs-2018-04-19/​

​A Taste of Magic
A Taste of Magic includes dinner plus tableside performances of close-up magic between courses of the meal. Guests usually see three or four magicians at their table as well as tricks performed for the whole room by the show's host. 
Friday, April 13, at 8 p.m., Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
Saturday, April 21, at 8 p.m., Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Friday, April 27, at 8 p.m., Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Saturday, May 5, Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
Friday, May 11, Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Saturday, May 19, at 8 p.m., Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
Friday, May 25, Dock's Oyster Bar, 633 Third Avenue
For more information: atasteofmagicnyc.com

Chamber Magic, featuring Steve Cohen
Fridays at 7 and 9 p.m.; Saturdays at 2, 7 and 9 p.m.
Cohen's long running show (which has a dress code for audience members) harks to an earlier era of parlor magic. Cohen has drawn together rarely seen effects from a across a span of magic's history for an effective and very entertaining evening of magic. Chamber Magic is now performed at Lotte New York Palace Hotel, 455 Madison Avenue (b/t 50th & 51st Streets). For more information: www.chambermagic.com, or 866-811-4111.

David Blaine
July 12 and 14, Kings Theater, Brooklyn
Blaine will cap off a summer tour of live performances with a two evening stint at the King's Theater in Brooklyn, finally giving New York audiences the chance to see his stage show. Blaine's fans will also have the chance to see the lavish Kings Theater. The venue originally opened in 1929 but was empty from 1977 until an extensive renovation which led to a reopening in 2015. For more information: davidblaine.com
​
In & of Itself
Created and Performed by Derek DelGaudio.
The run has been extended and tickets are currently on sale through August 19
DelGaudio's innovative show explores new territory in magic.
Daryl Roth Theatre
101 East 15th Street
For more information, click here.

Magic After Hours, with Noah Levine
The show provides an insider's view of Tannen's magic shop, focusing on its history and legacy, as well as a performance of close-up magic by Noah Levine. The show tends to play most Tuesdays and Wednesdays although performances often are scheduled on other days of the week. 8 p.m. at Tannen's Magic, 45 West 34th Street, 6th Floor. For tickets and more information: www.magicafterhours.com

Magic at Coney
Sundays at noon at the Coney Island Museum, 1208 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn
Sunday, April 15, featuring Rich Kameda, Thomas Solomon, Jim Vines, and Gary Dreifus. For more information and tickets: www.coneyisland.com/programs/magic-coney

Magicienne Among the Spirits, featuring Belinda Sinclair
Performances Thursday through Sunday in a location within walking distance of Times Square (address disclosed after tickets are purchased). The show is performed for a group of 8 to 10 people in Belinda's "secret conjuring room." It is an intimate show that includes a focus on magic history with a particular look at conjuring's female masters. Also includes pre-show tea and biscuits. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2993182

Monday Night Magic
April 16, at 8 p.m., featuring: Torkova, Throwdini and John Archer  (headliner), with Master of Ceremonies, David Corsaro. Close-up performances at intermission by Eli Bosnick and Matias Letelier
April 23, at 8 p.m. featuring: Noah Levine, Jeff Moche, and Chris Capehart (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, David Corsaro. Close-up performances at intermission by Richard Cohn and Jason Suran
April 30, at 8 p.m., featuring: TJ Tana, Shawn Farquhar, Peter Samelson (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, Ben Nemzer. Close-up performances at intermission by Brandon Williams and Mike Patrick
May 7, at 8 p.m. Mike Patrick, Christian Cagigal and Eric Dittelman (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, David Corsaro. Close-up performances by Michael Chaut and TJ Tana.
May 14, at 8 p.m., featuring: Torkova, Keith Fields and Eran Raven (headliner) with Master of Ceremonies, Todd Robbins. Close-up performances at intermission by Noah Levine and (TBA).
​Players Theatre, 125 MacDougal Street. For information: mondaynightmagic.com, 718-575-1349

Myron the Magnificent at the Brooklyn Public Library
Saturday, May 19 at noon, free.
Myron will astound audiences of all ages in this free event.
Brooklyn Public Library, Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn
https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/events-youth-and-families-central-library-dweck-20180519

Parlor of Mystery
Sunday, April 22, 7 p.m. Magic, Mentalism, Comedy, with performances by TJ Tana, Bobby Torkova, and  Greg Hoffman, with close-up magic by Tom Hashim
Sunday, May 20, 7 p.m., Comedy Magic Show, with performances by Christian Cagigal, Bob Baker, and Thaddeus
Sunday, June 24, at 7 p.m. with performances by David Schwartz and Mark Zacharia
South Shore Theatre Experience, 115 South Wellwood Ave.Lindenhurst, NY (Long Island)
For more information: parlorofmystery.com, 631-669-0506
Parlor of Mystery shows are held the fourth Sunday of every month.

Sam Eaton's The Quantum Eye: Magic and Mentalism Show
The show plays most Saturdays at 4 p.m. Please check the current schedule via the Quantum Eye web site.
Theatre 80, 80 Saint Mark's Place
For more information: www.thequantumeye.com

Six Impossible Things, featuring Joshua Jay
June 1 through July 28
Joshua Jay's show is billed as an immersive close-up magic show that involves moving through the performance space. The audience is limited to 20 members at each performance and the promotional materials for the production warn that repeat visits will not be permitted.
The Mist, 59 Canal Street. For more information: www.siximpossiblethingsshow.com

The Amazing Kreskin Live
Remaining shows: April 25 through 28
In the 1970s Kreskin brought mentalism into the forefront of popular culture via many high-profile appearances on TV talk shows and his own syndicated program which aired for five years. He has continued to perform regularly since that time and this appearance in New York marks a rare opportunity to see him in a live setting. 
The Lion Theater, 410 West 42nd Street. Click here for more information and tickets. 

The Magician, featuring Dan White
An intimate evening of magic, mystery, and deception.
The show is presented Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
Please check the show's web site for specific availability. 
Nomad Upstairs, The Nomad Hotel, 1170 Broadway (and 28th Street)
For more information: www.nomadupstairs.com

Lectures and Seminars

Curtis Kam
April 26, 7 p.m.
at Tannen's

Asi Wind Seminar
May 6
A six-hour seminar in which Asi Wind teaches the effects included in his new book, Repertoire.
Presented by Tannen's Magic at a location to be announced at a later date. For more information: tannens.com


Get-Togethers

Cafe Rustico II
Saturdays from approximately noon to 5 p.m.
25 West 35th Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues)
Magicians gather at Rustico on Saturdays, in a longstanding tradition to share information, help each other with tricks, and socialize (the group traces its heritage to the 1940s). The Rustico get-together is attended by magicians of all levels from beginners to working pros. Many future magic greats got their start by learning from fellow magicians at this weekly meet-up. Among the regular attendees are a core group of skilled practitioners, all of whom are willing to pass along knowledge to other magicians. Anyone interested in magic is welcome to attend. [Please note that the group normally does not meet on the weekends of major holidays such as Labor Day, Memorial Day, and July 4th].

The Magic Table
Fridays at 1 p.m.
Times Square Diner & Grill, 807 Eighth Avenue (49th Street)
The Magic Table is another longstanding gathering for magicians. It has always been based in the Times Square area, harking to the time when the neighborhood was home to multiple magic businesses like the Tannen's and Max Holden magic stores. This get-together often stretches out from lunchtime until early evening as magicians schmooze over omelets, sandwiches, and soup. It is frequented by a group of dedicated regulars as well as magicians visiting New York and occasional surprise guests. (See a Today show piece about the group here).

Magnets
Wednesday evenings, 6 p. m.
Gossip Restaurant, 733 Ninth Avenue
Magnets is a newer group that meets for weekly jam sessions and workshops and also occasionally sponsors its own lectures, workshops and shows. Although everyone is welcome, the group skews toward magicians in their 20s and 30s, supporting each other with feedback on performances, booking and marketing information, and help achieving long-term goals. Many of the Magnets members perform in the show, A Taste of Magic, which is a spin-off of the group. Anyone interested in magic is welcome to attend the Wednesday night sessions.

Magic Societies, New York City Chapters

New York is home to chapters of two separate international magic societies, The International Brotherhood of Magicians and the Society of American Magicians.

International Brotherhood of Magicians, Ring 26
The Harry Roz-On Ring of the I. B. M. meets the last Friday of each month at the Associated Musicians of Greater New York, 322 West 48th Street. The group presents frequent shows by members and by special guests as well as regular Lab sessions where members teach magic. The I. B. M. is characterized by a strong community of members who share in their love of magic. For information about joining, please write the group's President, Jim Stranges, at: [email protected]. 

Society of American Magicians, Parent Assembly, #1
The S. A. M. was founded in New York in 1902. After the group expanded nationally, the local chapter became known as Parent Assembly, #1. Parent Assembly meets the first Friday of each month. Meetings are often held at Fantasma Magic but special shows are sometimes held elsewhere. Parent Assembly meetings offer a wide variety of programming ranging from lectures with notable magicians to performances by members, historical talks, and seasonal celebrations. PA1 also presents a monthly workshop which features instruction by noted magician Doug Edwards. For information about joining Parent Assembly, please contact Membership Committee Chairman, Steve Okulewicz, at: [email protected]​.

Society of Young Magicians
The first Saturday of every month, except July and August, from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Tannen's Magic, 45 West 34th Street, 6th Floor 
Young magicians (18 years and below) gather to learn from each other as well as a special guest every meeting. The group often gets opportunities to perform for lay-people and professional magicians alike. Tricks are taught, critiques are given and young magicians can collaborate and have fun. This is for any young person interested in magic, including folks who are first starting out or are at an intermediate level. For more information about the SYM, contact Cory Bragar at: [email protected]​.

New York City's Magic Shops

Tannen's, 45 West 34th Street, Suite 608, 212-929-4500
Tannen's is New York's oldest magic shop and is a hub of magic activity in the city. The store's Chief demonstrator Magick Balay and a crew of other skilled staff keep a stream of tricks flowing from behind the counter while often a wide range of magicians, magic lovers, (and parents of budding magicians) hang out at the table in the center of the room. Notable magicians are known to pop by and the store is on the itinerary of many conjurors visiting from out-of-town. Although the decor feels a bit home-grown, the store is very well-stocked with the latest tricks, an extensive selection of books and DVDs as well as supplies and basics like cards, silks, rope, flash paper, etc. There is a treasure of magic books - which may be borrowed free of charge. Just look to the left of the large elephant in the room. www.tannens.com

Fantasma Magic, 213 West 35th Street, 212-233-3633
Fantasma, which recently moved a couple blocks to a new location, is characterized by its personable staff as well as by the extensive collection of rare and original Houdini memorabilia on display. These include a selection of professionally displayed posters, handcuffs, photographs, props and other items. The displays of Houdini materials take up the majority of the space in the shop. It is definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in the noted escape artist. Although Fantasma's stock may not be as deep as Tannen's, the store carries a wide range of interesting items including some unique and collectible tricks, a wide selection of playing cards and an extensive selection of second hand books including some hard-to-find classic volumes. Many of the products Fantasma sells are those manufactured by their parent toy company, including a smorgasbord of magic sets and individual tricks. www.fantasmamagic.com

Abracadabra, 19 West 21st Street, New York City, NY
Abracadabra has a magic section within the larger store that sells costumes and other items.
www.abracadabranyc.com

Halloween Adventure, 808 Broadway
Halloween Adventure also has a magic section in its large store.
www.newyorkcostumes.com

Mario Marchese's show for children and families is a modern day mash up that combines a vaudevillian's sense of physical comedy with cutting-edge technology that allows him to interact with his home-grown props in remarkable ways. For example, he pairs up with a lamp that comes to life and seems to have a mind and will of its own. Mario's partnership with this "shady" character recalls classic comedy duos of silent films or the best clowns of the circus to the point where audience members are likely to forget that the magician is interacting with...a lamp! Mario is a talented magician and juggler, and by planting his show both in the worlds of traditional performance and modern technology he has created something entirely new and brilliantly entertaining.

On Friday, April 6 Mario will appear in a lecture presented by Parent Assembly, #1 of the Society of American Magicians. In his lecture he goes into detail about the maker movement that has inspired his work and he also discusses the specific system of electronics and programming that facilitates the animation of his props. He provides enough information and resources that anyone interested in utilizing these techniques would have the tools to learn how to do so. The lecture is open to any magician interested in attending (see details below).

Mario has appeared on Sesame Street and NBC Universal's Sprout Channel and is the subject of an award-winning documentary film, Building Magic. Additionally he recently was part of the creative team behind David Baine's North American stage tour.

Mario's lecture will be held at 8 p. m. at Fantasma Magic, 213 West 35th Street, #401. The lecture is free to Parent Assembly members, $20 for other S. A. M. members and $25 for nonmembers.

​Moderated by Herb Scher of Herb's Magic and Featuring: Richard Cohn, Mark Mitton and George Schindler

Many of magic’s most influential and innovative performers found their footing in the escapist shores of Coney Island. Harry Houdini, Dai Vernon, Al Flosso, Jean Hugard, and Horace Goldin are among the magicians who entertained there and grew into world-renowned talents. In this free event, magicians Richard Cohn, Mark Mitton, Herb Scher, and George Schindler will highlight numerous notable magicians who made an impact at Coney Island and they will perform feats of magic the likes of which have enthralled audiences there for more than 125 years. They will also explore what it is about Coney Island that has attracted and nurtured so many colorful conjurors, look at the magic performed at Coney Island today, and consider the prospects for its future as a home to amusement and amazement. The participants in The Magicians of Coney Island are all active members of the Parent Assembly of the Society of American Magicians which has been a nexus of magic in New York City since 1902.

The event will be held at the Brooklyn Public Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza. For free tickets, register here.

Images: Harry and Bess Houdini, Al Flosso, Adelaide Herrmann

Ben Lichtenstein, a magic lover and regular participant in the longstanding Saturday magic get-together in New York passed away last Friday. Lichtenstein attended the gatherings for decades, even recently while he was facing the challenge of a significant battle with cancer. Ben was involved with magic in New York from at least the early 1970s and was a knowledgeable eye-witness to the ups and downs, the cast of characters, and the developments of the New York magic scene during that time.

Ben was a warm, wise, supportive and generous member of the Saturday group. Below are some thoughts from people who knew Ben in the world of magic. It is worth highlighting this quote from Sol Stone, which encapsulates one aspect of Ben's personality: "He was a positive influence. He was not a critical guy. He found what he could praise in a person and what was good in a person. That was what he emphasized. He was optimistic and positive."

Following are some other comments about Ben from some of us who knew him.

Jerry Deutsch
Ben was always very helpful to me in everything. He solved some problems that I had with my computer and gave as much time as I needed over the phone for that. I always looked forward to seeing him on Saturdays at Café Rustico where we would discuss magic. He was a very giving person and was very supportive of the magicians that came in on Saturdays and gave advice to those that sought it. Ben loved magic and he will be missed.

Doug Edwards
I've known Ben for at least 35 years and he was always well-spoken and had a sincere love for magic. He also was easy to talk with and gave me some tips and ideas on some of the effects in my repertoire. In short, it was great to be in his company.

Stanley Hersch
Ben could not help offering personal help to members of the group who needed it, which showed a great character. We will miss him.

Wesley James
I only got to know Ben at Cafe Rustico, but I found him an amateur in the truest sense of the word, a lover of magic. I don't think I ever saw him perform, but he had knowledge and shared his opinions honestly and always in the spirit of being helpful. He was a generous and devoted father to his son, Mark, and always his most encouraging and ardent fan. He clearly held his wife in the highest regard and with the greatest affection. He had a warm sense of humor and loved baseball and radio, in which he had at one time worked. He will be missed.

David Roth
Ben was terrific and he never lost his enthusiasm for magic. Going to the the pizza place, I think was his therapy. He was a nice guy who loved magic and it was always good to see him there.

Herb Scher
Compared to some of the other regular attendees of the gathering I only got to know Ben somewhat recently - over the last seven years or so. However, I found him to be an exceedingly warm, welcoming, and supportive presence there who extended himself without expecting anything in return. He became a good friend and someone who I turned to for advice. 

Ben had years of experience as an employment recruiter (a "headhunter") and he was thoughtful and generous in offering perspectives drawn from that background as well as from his other wide-ranging interests and experience. He also was quick to support a rather ambitious magic show I presented around the time I first joined the group and provided me with much appreciated feedback which contributed to its development. Ben also happened to have an incisive sense of humor which livened the conversations around the table on Saturdays. I’ll miss him a lot.

Over the time of my friendship with Ben, although I knew that he had a deep love of magic, for the longest time I never saw him perform. In fact performance was not the side of magic that was Ben’s main focus, however once in order to illustrate a point relevant to a conversation we were having, he picked up a pack of cards and performed an effect that he probably hadn’t practiced in more than twenty years. I WAS FOOLED!

I am glad that I had the chance to get to know Ben’s son Mark, who also has a strong interest in magic and is a regular participant in the Saturday group, as well as Ben’s wife Carla. I know that everyone in the group has them in their thoughts.

Sol Stone
Ben was a very bright, sweet person. It was a delight to know him and to talk with him every week from our regular spots at the Saturday table. He always had interesting things to say. He was a very bright man and when he was there the IQ of the table went way up and when he wasn’t around it went way down again. He was very much a realist - he had travelled and seen and done - he was a citizen of the world. For that reason he was a delight to be around.

He was a positive influence. He was not a critical guy. He found what he could praise in a person and what was good in a person. That was what he emphasized. He was an optimistic and positive guy. 

###

Please note that Xavier Spade will lecture in New York, this coming Friday, March 2 at Fantasma Magic at 8 p.m. in an event presented by the Parent Assembly #1 of the Society of American Magicians. Spade has become known in the underground magic scene in New York, where he is the proprietor of Lost Art Magic, which has released magic by such figures as Eric Jones, Woody Aragon, Kainoa Harbottle and many others, including Spade's own work on The Pass and Raise Rise.

The event is free to members of Parent Assembly, $20 to other S. A. M. members and $25 to magicians unaffiliated with S. A. M. or PA1.

Fantasma Magic is at: 213 West 35th Street, near Seventh Avenue, on the 4th Floor (this is their new location).

Rich Kameda's show at the Frigid Festival was inspired when he learned about Robert Katase, a magican who was one of the many people of Japanese heritage in the United States forcibly relocated to an internment camp by the United States government during World War II. Rich was intrigued to discover that recreation and entertainment were a part of life in the camps and that magic was performed there. The show that Rich has created, An Internment Camp Magic Show, shows how even in the most dispiriting circumstances magic can play an uplifting role.

In our interview Rich talks about his inspiration for the show, how he discovered the magic he included, the larger points he hopes the show will convey, and many other aspects of the process of creating this intriguing work. 

An Internment Camp Magic Show is playing for five performances at the Kraine Theatre, 85 East 4th Street, starting February 14 (see dates below). Tickets can be purchased at: www.horsetrade.info.

An Internment Camp Magic Show
Wednesday, February 14, 7:10 p.m.
Tuesday, February 20, 8:50 p.m.
Saturday, February 24, 7:10 p.m.
Monday, February 26, 7:10 p.m.
Thursday, March 1, 7:10 p.m

​###

Dustin Stinett, an Associate Editor of Genii magazine, has crafted an extensive "2017 in Review" post on the Genii Forum, which includes a mention of and link to the Herb's Magic interview with David Williamson, which ran here in April. Stinett's review highlights a wide range of magic news and items, both mainstream and offbeat, that may have been overlooked by magicians and magic-lovers during the year. For example, there are links to interviews with David Blaine, David Copperfield, and Derek DelGaudio, a Fred Kaps lecture on using the Topit, and evidence that Batman knows coin flourishes. Stinett's review is definitely worth reading and, of course, we here at Herb's Magic are very pleased to be included.

As undoubtedly most readers here would know, Genii Magazine is the leading periodical devoted to magic and the Genii Forum is a related online message board that features an active ongoing conversation about magic.

Our interview with David Williamson ran at the time he appeared in New York at Madison Square Garden as the ringmaster in Circus 1903. It covered his involvement in that show but also delved into numerous other aspects of his career and his views on magic.

The Parent Assembly of the Society of American Magicians is holding its annual auction Thursday, January 4. 

The auction provides a great opportunity to purchase hard-to-find and rare items as well as to uncover magic bargains as Parent Assembly members send their cherished tricks, videos, books, posters, memorabilia and more to new homes.

This year we have noteworthy special donations of tricks, cards, and books from organizations and individuals including Tannen's Magic, Steve Cohen, David Kaye/Silly Billy, George Schindler's Showbiz Services and herbsmagic.com, with more to come. These include some unique decks of special edition playing cards from Steve Cohen, a "Mysterious" contribution from Tannen's that will be of interest, as well as tricks, books and more.

Aside from the possibility of finding unusual or bargain items, the auction often provides exciting moments of dramatic bidding action! Doors open at 7:45, auction starts promptly at 8 p.m.

The auction will be held at:
Fantasma Magic (their new location)
213 West 35th Street (b/t 7th & 8th Aves.)