The roots of National Magic Week date back over 80 years. In the summer of 1927, less than one year after the death of Harry Houdini, a “Houdini Day” was established. In 1938, Les Sholty, a Chicago member of the Society of American Magicians, sought official sanction for a “Houdini Day.” A friend of the Houdini’s requested and obtained permission from Mrs. Houdini to proclaim October 31st as National Magic Day in honor of Harry Houdini. A plan was formulated to celebrate this day by having free magic performances for shut-ins and the handicapped, who would otherwise not be able to go out and enjoy a show. The first radio broadcast about National Magic Day occurred on July 20, 1938 on Radio station KQW. Mrs. Houdini participated in that broadcast.
It wasn’t long before National Magic Day became National Magic Week. For 2018 Magic Week Begins on October 23rd – October 31st 2018. Please let us know if you are doing anything special to commemorate National Magic Week.
With this in mind:
On October 26, Parent Assembly member Herb Scher will help host a free public event at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, focusing on magic and its intersection with the world of medicine. The event will feature a performance by Dr. Kedar Sankholkar, a New York City cardiologist (and conjuror) who uses magic to help spread information about heart health. Herb will present an overview focusing on physicians who have had a notable influence on magic. A key section of the event will focus on Dr. Saram Ellison, who was instrumental in creating the S. A. M. in 1902. The Library for the Performing Arts has a notable collection of original materials relating to the founding of the Parent Assembly, which will be drawn on for the event.
Magic and Mysteries of the Heart Friday October 26 at 7:00 p.m. Café at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center
For reservations please visit nypl.org/lpa/events
