Magic Castle Happenings – The Good Stuff (September 2015)

[Dustin Stinett]

Fixin’, Cleanin’, and Fluffin’ Stuff

The new Magic Castle/Academy of Magical Arts website is up and running. As with most new things like this, there are still tweaks happening here and there, but it is quite nice and worth a gander even in its less-than-perfect state.

The graphics are terrific (pushing, but not breaking, the envelope of “too much”) and photos of the performers on the schedule are an “about time” addition. For instance, it’s nice to know that Michael Kaminskas bears a striking resemblance to Harry Kellar. Who knew?

Most of the “issues” being experienced are some of the internal doodads that members use, so if you are a non-member, your experience while searching the new site will be great … oh, and why aren’t you a member? Check it out: http://www.magiccastle.com/

Would You Like Some Magic With Your Wine?

David Minkin’s wonderful “Magic & Wine: Transcending Reality” show and wine tasting event will have two showings in September: the 2nd and the 16th. All members may purchase tickets through the AMA/Castle website. Seating is limited.

No Labor on Labor Day

The Magic Castle and the AMA offices will be closed on Monday, September 7 in observance of Labor Day.

A Well-Planned Improvisation

One of the dirty secrets of “improv” is being well prepared for the opportunity. On September 8, Steve Valentine and Daniel Ulin will help prepare you as they host Magician Members and two members of The Groundlings, Allison Dunbar and Ryan Gaul. They will cover the “rules” (such that they are) to improv and how magicians can apply them to their work. “Improv for Magicians” starts at 8PM in the Inner Circle.

Commerce Day

Saturday the 12th is the Magic Castle Swap Meet. Doors open for members at 8AM. All members are free and non-members—who may enter at 9AM—pay just $8, a virtual pittance, to get in, see the sellers and The Magic Castle (grab a hotdog or two so you can say, “I ate at The Magic Castle,” do a trick for your pals and say, “I performed at The Magic Castle—nudge-nudge-wink-wink”) and while you’re at it, engage in some commerce … you know you want to!

A Hat, a Hare, and a Helmet

Monday Night Football begins on (coincidentally) Monday, September 14. The fun and fanaticism takes place in the Hat & Hare pub each Monday. $5 per game (so $10 for a two-fer, like on the 14th) includes all you can stomach hotdogs, Magic Castle Chili, and soft drinks. Members and their guests are welcome. Jerseys may be worn over your shirt and tie after stepping foot in the Hat & Hare. (The TV schedule determines the event schedule.)

Creepy … Spooky … Zabrecky

The non-dining Houdini Séances starring Houdini and hosted by Rob Zabrecky will be held on the 17th. Four sittings: 6, 8, 9:45, and 11PM. Only $35 per person, or $45 and get a commemorative Houdini Coin to go along with your experience. Close your eyes, clasps hands with your loved ones, and make “contact” with the AMA Spirit Director Josh Stern at jstern[at]magiccastle[dot]com or at extension 303 for information.

“I like my films to influence the audience. Even if it means tripping their aged grandparents with a cane when they get home.” —W.C. Fields

The 100th anniversary of the first flicker of the namesake of the bar area in the Inner Circle will be celebrated on the early evening of September 19 (the bar area is the WC Fields Bar; the physical bar is the Hello Dolly Bar—at least as I understand it).

Fields’ first movie, a ten minute silent short, is titled “Pool Sharks.” (But no, the special billiards table on display in the WC Fields Bar does not appear in that movie.) The film features movie magic that Georges Méliès would have been proud of. The evening commences at 5:30 with champagne and appetizers. The vintage flicker begins at 6PM and will be followed by a Q&A (Fields family members will be attending). All members welcome, but space is limited! Please see Max Maven’s column in the September Newsletter for details.

Attack of the Junior Program

Saturday the 26th is “Junior Day” at the Castle. The clubhouse and Brunch is closed while the Castle Juniors get the run of the joint. Business as usual resumes at 5PM.

Say Aloha to a Legend

A memorial for Stan Kramien will be held in the Inner Circle (as well as the Palace) on September 27 beginning at 3:30PM.

Sumptuous September Spread

The Member’s Menu for September:

1, 2 – Cider-Brined Pork Chop with Garlic Whipped Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, and Peach & Cayenne Chutney
Vegetarian: Roasted Vegetable & Cheese Cannelloni with Marinara Sauce
Vegan: Sautéed Organic Tofu with Spicy Shiitake, Bean Sprouts & Radish Salad

7, 8, 9 – Grilled Swordfish with Citrus Herb Risotto, Asparagus and Tomato Olive Relish
Vegetarian: Gorgonzola Ravioli with Sautéed Spinach, Cherry Tomatoes & Toasted Walnuts
Vegan: Toasted Quinoa with Balsamic Grilled Vegetables and Tomato Caper Sauce

14, 15, 16 – Grilled Ahi Tuna with Bamboo Rice, Sprout and Radish Salad with Soy Ginger Vinaigrette
Vegetarian: Eggplant Parmesan over Herb Risotto with Grilled Asparagus and Marinara
Vegan: Grilled Portobello Mushroom Tostada, Tomatoes, Black Beans, Grilled Corn, Romaine Lettuce, Avocado and Jalapeño Cilantro Vinaigrette

21, 22, 23 – Grilled Top Sirloin with Sautéed Shrimp, Baked Potato, Seasonal Vegetables and Classic Demi Glaze
Vegetarian: Five-Cheese Tortellini with Sautéed Kale and Zucchini Ragout
Vegan: Tofu and Vegetable Stir Fry over Jasmine Rice

28, 29, 30 – Summer Lager-Braised Lamb Shank with Roasted Garlic Whipped Potatoes, Braised Root Vegetables and Radish Salad
Vegetarian: Wild Mushroom Risotto with English Peas, Cured Tomato, Parmesan and Baby Spinach
Vegan: Vegan Spinach Ravioli sautéed with Zucchini, English Peas and Pomodoro Sauce

Remember that the vegetarian and vegan dishes are available every night of the week at The Magic Castle. Just ask your server!

Be Careful What You Wish For …

Nominations for the next election cycle for members of the Board of Directors and the Board of Trustees has opened. See the newsletter or the AMA website for information on how to toss your hat into the circle.

Seeing Into Your Future

The Magic Castle has been busy the last couple of years and the clubhouse’s busiest part of the year starts in October and runs through the end of the year, so start your planning now. Halloween Week (the theme is “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”) is October 26 thru the 31st. The kids’ Fall Festival will be on Sunday the 25th. A special Members Only Night (starring Harry Anderson) will take place on the 14th and the next Strolling Magic Smack Down will be held in the Inner Circle on the 6th.

Santa the Claus will be making his usual visits during the Christmas season and we will all be kicking up our heels at the New Year’s Roundup on December 31. Yee haw! Finally, The Magic Castle is an excellent spot for holiday parties with your business colleagues and/or employees. (Even though I’ve not been in that kind of business for some time now, I’ve “been there done that” a few times in the past and folks still talk about it when we reconnect.) Contact the Group Events Manager Erin Chick at echick[at]magiccastle[dot]com (or at extension 300) for information. Do not delay! The available spots for such events fill up fast!

September Lecture Lineup

The Magic Castle averages over 40 lectures per year. Members are not expected to attend all of them (some do), but just a little simple math proves that the lectures alone are worth the price of membership in the AMA (and of course there is the library, the Perks, and, of course the incredible mansion known as The Magic Castle). All lectures commence at 3PM in the Parlour of Prestidigitation unless otherwise noted. Magician Members only and check-in at the front desk is required.

9/6 – Michael Kaminskas
9/13 – Thom Peterson
9/20 – Thomas Blacke
9/27 – Doc Eason

Now Showing

The schedule commencing August 31:

The Close-Up Gallery
Michael Kaminskas
Thom Peterson
Misty Mew (5-7 p.m. Thursday - Sunday)

The Parlour of Prestidigitation
Alba
Crow Garrett

The Palace of Mystery
Alex Ramone

W.C. Fields Bar (Thursday – Sunday)
David Gabbay

The Peller Theatre (Thursday – Sunday)
Smoke & Mirrors – George Tovar

Friday Lunch
Michael Kaminskas

Saturday/Sunday Brunch
Norm Barnhart

Sunday Lecture
(9/6) Michael Kaminskas

Sneak Peek of Some Future Performers…

Johnny Ace Palmer (Close-Up: wk/of 9-7)
Thom Peterson (Parlour: wk/of 9-7)
Lady Mystina (Palace: wk/of 9-7)
Ice McDonald (Palace: wk/of 9-7)
Steve valentine (Close-Up: wk/of 9-14)
Bill Goodwin (Close-Up: wk/of 9-14)
Chuck Jones & Company (Palace: wk/of 9-14)
John Ferrentino (Parlour: wk/of 9-21)
David Deeble (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
Scott land (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
PoHan Huang (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
John Carney (Peller: 9-24 thru 27)
Handsome Jack (Peller: 9-24 thru 27)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-24 thru 27)
Greg “But I’m Retired!” Otto (Close-Up: 10-1 thru 4)
Bodine Balasco (Close-Up: wk/of 9-28)
Stoil & Ekaterina (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Fielding West (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-30 thru 10-4)
Christopher Hart (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Rob Gould (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Thommy Ten & Amelie van Tass (Parlour: wk/of 10-5)
Rich Block (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Dale Salwak (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Greg Wilson (Sat.-Sun. Brunch: 10-10 & 11)
Paul Green (Close-Up: 10-15 thru 18)
David Minkin (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Toto (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kornhauser (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kalin (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Aye Jay (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Eric Buss (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Michael Rayner (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Rory Johnston (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Arthur Trace (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Shawn McMaster (Peller: 10-22 thru 25)
Francis Menotti (Close-Up: wk/of 10-26)
Misty Lee (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Simon Coronel (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Rob Zabrecky (Palace: wk/of 10-26)

And you can always check the current schedule here: http://www.magiccastle.com/now_appearing/

Schedule is subject to change without notice

[Dustin Stinett]

Swap Meet

This Saturday the 12th is the Magic Castle’s fall Swap Meet. Doors open for members at 8AM for all members (who enter free of charge while non-members—who may enter at 9AM—pay just $8 to get in. See you there!

Now Showing

The schedule commencing September 8 (The Castle and its offices are closed for Labor Day, 9/7):

The Close-Up Gallery
Akinobu Mitsui
Johnny Ace Palmer
Jesse Dee (5-7 p.m. Thursday - Sunday)

The Parlour of Prestidigitation
Bruce Kalver
Thom Peterson

The Palace of Mystery
Lady Mystina
Ice McDonald

W.C. Fields Bar (Thursday – Sunday)
Jeff Bornstein

The Peller Theatre (Friday – Sunday)
Chris Mitchell
Greg Wilson

Friday Lunch
Johnny Ace Palmer

Saturday/Sunday Brunch
Chuck & Jan Jones

Sunday Lecture
(9/13) Thom Peterson

Sneak Peek of Some Future Performers…

Steve valentine (Close-Up: wk/of 9-14)
Bill Goodwin (Close-Up: wk/of 9-14)
Chuck Jones & Company (Palace: wk/of 9-14)
John Ferrentino (Parlour: wk/of 9-21)
David Deeble (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
Scott land (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
PoHan Huang (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
John Carney (Peller: 9-24 thru 27)
Handsome Jack (Peller: 9-24 thru 27)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-24 thru 27)
Greg “But I’m Retired!” Otto (Close-Up: 10-1 thru 4)
Bodine Balasco (Close-Up: wk/of 9-28)
Stoil & Ekaterina (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Fielding West (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-30 thru 10-4)
Christopher Hart (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Rob Gould (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Thommy Ten & Amelie van Tass (Parlour: wk/of 10-5)
Rich Block (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Dale Salwak (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Greg Wilson (Sat.-Sun. Brunch: 10-10 & 11)
Paul Green (Close-Up: 10-15 thru 18)
David Minkin (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Toto (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kornhauser (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kalin (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Aye Jay (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Eric Buss (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Michael Rayner (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Rory Johnston (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Arthur Trace (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Shawn McMaster (Peller: 10-22 thru 25)
Francis Menotti (Close-Up: wk/of 10-26)
Misty Lee (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Simon Coronel (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Rob Zabrecky (Palace: wk/of 10-26)

And you can always check the current schedule here: http://www.magiccastle.com/now_appearing/

Schedule is subject to change without notice

[Dustin Stinett]

Now Showing

The schedule that commenced September 14:

The Close-Up Gallery
Steve Valentine
Bill Goodwin
Tom Ogden (5-7 p.m. Thursday - Sunday)

The Parlour of Prestidigitation
Brandon Scott
Jeff Ezell

The Palace of Mystery
Chuck Jones and Company

W.C. Fields Bar (Thursday – Sunday)
Ryan Eason

The Peller Theatre (Friday – Sunday)
Greg Otto
J. Neal

Friday Lunch
Bill Goodwin

Saturday/Sunday Brunch
Thomas Blacke

Sunday Lecture
(9/20) Thomas Blacke

Sneak Peek of Some Future Performers…

John Ferrentino (Parlour: wk/of 9-21)
David Deeble (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
Scott land (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
PoHan Huang (Palace: wk/of 9-21)
John Carney (Peller: 9-24 thru 27)
Handsome Jack (Peller: 9-24 thru 27)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-24 thru 27)
Greg “But I’m Retired!” Otto (Close-Up: 10-1 thru 4)
Bodine Balasco (Close-Up: wk/of 9-28)
Stoil & Ekaterina (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Fielding West (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-30 thru 10-4)
Christopher Hart (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Rob Gould (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Thommy Ten & Amelie van Tass (Parlour: wk/of 10-5)
Rich Block (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Dale Salwak (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Greg Wilson (Sat.-Sun. Brunch: 10-10 & 11)
Paul Green (Close-Up: 10-15 thru 18)
David Minkin (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Toto (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kornhauser (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kalin (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Aye Jay (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Eric Buss (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Michael Rayner (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Rory Johnston (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Arthur Trace (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Shawn McMaster (Peller: 10-22 thru 25)
Francis Menotti (Close-Up: wk/of 10-26)
Misty Lee (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Simon Coronel (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Rob Zabrecky (Palace: wk/of 10-26)

And you can always check the current schedule here: http://www.magiccastle.com/now_appearing/

Schedule is subject to change without notice

[Dustin Stinett]

Now Showing

The schedule commencing September 21:

The Close-Up Gallery
Rick Lax
LUIS
Brian Markenson (5-7 p.m. Thursday - Sunday)

The Parlour of Prestidigitation
Sean Masterson
John Ferrentino

The Palace of Mystery
David Deeble
Scott Land
PoHan Huang

W.C. Fields Bar (Wednesday – Sunday)
Doc Eason

The Peller Theatre (Friday – Sunday)
John Carney
Handsome Jack

Friday Lunch
Rick Lax

Saturday/Sunday Brunch
William Perron

Sunday Lecture
(9/27) No Lecture (Stan Kramien Memorial)

Sneak Peek of Some Future Performers…

Greg “But I’m Retired!” Otto (Close-Up: 10-1 thru 4)
Bodine Balasco (Close-Up: wk/of 9-28)
Stoil & Ekaterina (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Fielding West (Palace: wk/of 9-28)
Doc Eason (WC Fields Bar: 9-30 thru 10-4)
Christopher Hart (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Rob Gould (Peller: 10-1 thru 4)
Thommy Ten & Amelie van Tass (Parlour: wk/of 10-5)
Rich Block (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Dale Salwak (Palace: wk/of 10-5)
Greg Wilson (Sat.-Sun. Brunch: 10-10 & 11)
Paul Green (Close-Up: 10-15 thru 18)
David Minkin (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Toto (Close-Up: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kornhauser (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Mark Kalin (Palace: wk/of 10-12)
Aye Jay (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Eric Buss (Parlour: wk/of 10-19)
Michael Rayner (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Rory Johnston (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Arthur Trace (Palace: wk/of 10-19)
Shawn McMaster (Peller: 10-22 thru 25)
Francis Menotti (Close-Up: wk/of 10-26)
Misty Lee (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Simon Coronel (Parlour: wk/of 10-26)
Rob Zabrecky (Palace: wk/of 10-26)

And you can always check the current schedule here: http://www.magiccastle.com/now_appearing/

Schedule is subject to change without notice