Houdini Art and Magic preview at the Skirball Cultural Center

Last night I had the extreme honor of attending a special preview dinner and reception for the Houdini Art and Magic and Masters of Illusion exhibitions at Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. The event was a veritable who's who of Houdini and magic history heavyweights, including; Sidney Radner, Milt Larsen, John Gaughan, Arthur Moses, Patrick Culliton, William Kalush, Mike Caveney, Richard Hatch, Max Maven, Roger Dreyer, and many more familiar names and faces.

The dinner was wonderful, the remarks moving, and the exhibitions are JAW DROPPING! I hope to find time this weekend to write up my full thoughts on these amazing displays of Houdini and magic memorabilia, but know that it exceeds all expectations. This Skirball stop is a MUST for any magic enthusiast or, heck, anyone who wants to take a walk through a colorful and glorious turn-of-the-century art form in a beautiful space (this was the first time I've been to the Skirball). A bonus is that LA is currently festooned with banner ads for the exhibitions (right).

The Skirball is open today from 12-8pm for a special Members Preview. The exhibitions open tomorrow, April 28, to the general public. Also watch for the May issue of Los Angeles magazine, which features a terrific illustration by Mark Summers of Houdini escaping from a straight-jacket while hanging above the Skirball (complimentary copies were handed out last night).

There was a professional photographer on hand last night taking photos during the dinner, reception, and in the exhibit halls. When I find the link to the photos, I'll post it here.

Thanks to the Skirball Cultural Center and Arthur Moses for allowing me to share in this amazing evening.