Members of the Chattanooga Magic Club will entertain at Saturday’s’s fifth annual Family Magic Night at Chester Frost Park, presented by Hamilton County Parks and Recreation.
The event typically attracts between 150 and 180 people of all ages.
“We usually have three to four performers plus an emcee during the main show, plus other club members walking around before the show performing close-up magic,” said Adam Ryan, Chattanooga Magic Club president.
Chattanooga Magic Club, established in 1919, is one of the country’s oldest continually active magic clubs associated with the International Brotherhood of Magicians, according to its Web site, ring112.org. The club operated independently until it became affiliated with the international organization in the 1950s. Since that time, the Chattanooga Magic Club has hosted magic conventions as well as promoted magicians in the Chattanooga area.
“We currently have 15 to 20 active members,” Ryan said. “Our youngest member is 15. We have several members in their 60s, 70s and 80s. We are a diverse group.”
Ryan explained that members may specialize in any facet of magic, such as stage, stand-up or close-up.
“Each facet has its own divisions including illusions, comedy, children’s magic, rope magic, card magic, coin magic and mentalism,” he said.
Ryan said celebrity magicians David Blaine and Criss Angel have increased the interest in magic, as has the Internet.
“One of the best resources for magic is being able to see and talk to real magicians, and that is where a magic club is important for up-and-coming magicians,” Ryan said. “Magic clubs can help you get on the right track.”
If you go
* What: Hamilton County Parks and Recreation’s Family Magic Night.
* When: 7-9:30 p.m. Saturday.
* Where: Chester Frost Park Pavilion, 2318 N. Gold Point Circle, Hixson.
* Admission: $5 per person, $15 for a family of three or more (payable by cash or check).
* Phone: 842-6748 (reservations are required; call today).