A hush falls. The air crackles with anticipation. Welcome to Share the Magic also known as The Magic Castle.
This isn’t just a building. It’s a legendary clubhouse. A place where magic lives and breathes. The Magic Castle in Hollywood began life in 1909 as a grand mansion. It’s a true Hollywood landmark a testament to both illusion and enduring history. It has been a home a boarding house and even a space for the elderly. Now its magic thrives.
The Castle is more than just brick and mortar. It’s a repository of magical history. Downstairs you’ll find a research library. Only magician members can access its secrets. It’s filled with countless books on magic. Its shelves hold the accumulated knowledge of generations of illusionists.
The Magic Castle has hosted some of the greatest magicians of all time. Dai Vernon’s ashes were once kept here. He watched shows nightly from the front row until his death in 1992. Even today his presence is felt.
The building itself is a marvel. Hidden doors and secret passages abound. You need a password to enter. The Owl Bar’s cityscape backdrop even came from The Tonight Show. Tin tiles from a Redondo Beach firehouse adorn its walls. The Castle is a fascinating blend of styles and eras. A testament to Hollywood’s history.
In 2011 a fire ravaged the attic. Ironically the Castle’s Halloween theme that year was Inferno. The building was temporarily engulfed in flames. It later reopened in 2012. The Magic Castle survived the blaze. It’s a symbol of resilience and the enduring power of magic.
Today the Academy of Magical Arts boasts nearly 5000 members. Magicians from around the world come here. They share their craft and their passion. This isn’t just a club. It’s a living testament to the art of magic. The Castle continues to amaze. The magic lives on.