The Academy of Magical Arts Presents: An Evening with Tony Curtis! Billed as “Everything you wanted to know about Hollywood, but were afraid to ask,” the two-day special event starts Saturday the 17th, when Mr. Curtis will appear in the Palace of Mystery.
The internationally recognized star of classic films (such as Some Like it Hot, Spartacus and, of course, Houdini) will talk about his amazing, white hot career as one of cinema’s most recognized pieces of beefcake. He will also field questions from the audience. He will also field questions from the audience. No doubt, classic film fans will be clambering to take advantage of this rare opportunity to see, and possibly speak with, a living legend. However, there is a bit of a catch when it comes to participating in these festivities. In order to gain access to the private club you must procure a guest pass from a member. In addition, there's a mandatory cover charge and you are required to make a dinner reservation to secure access to the performance rooms. And in this case there's the request of a $10 donation for the Performers Lodging Fund.
As you can see, the night is going to add up to a pretty pricey amount. But, if you can swing it, there's no doubt the evening will be well worth the cost with some elegant and entertaining trimmings added in. Especially since you'll have access to everything else the Magic Castle has to offer, including the Parlor of Prestidigitation and the Close Up Room, let alone the rest of the nooks and corners of the club filled with members flaunting a wide range of talents from the amateur to the spectacular.
The same evening there is a reception, art showing, and book signing with Mr. Curtis from 7:30 – 10:00 pm at the club's Inner Circle for no additional fee. This part of the event is open to all Magic Castle members and guests whether you attend the earlier screening of Some Like It Hot or not. Then on Sunday the 18th there will be a screening of Houdini at the Palace of Mystery at 5:30pm, followed by a Q&A with the star. The usual requirements for entry to the Magic Castle stand and reservations for dinner are required.
Whether trying his hand at more serious roles (The Boston Strangler, The Defiant Ones) or appearing as his signature devil-may-care personae (Operation Petticoat, The Great Race), Tony Curtis undeniably carved out a niche for himself that is extremely difficult to duplicate – incredibly handsome and amazingly talented. One of the last true superstars of the old Hollywood, Tony Curtis live and in person is an event you should not miss.
Although the Magic Castle is a private magician’s club, as previously stated the public is granted access as guests of members, either escorted or by special invitation. So, by all means, use that pass you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Take advantage of that offer made oh so long ago by a friend of a friend and experience a piece of Hollywood magic in the most magical setting in Hollywood.
The Magic Castle is located at 7001 Franklin Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028. Tickets and reservations can be acquired at www.magiccastle.com/eventtickets.