Houdini experts gather to speak to the world’s greatest escape artist. Do the spirits return from the dead?
A committed group of Houdini experts and magic historians will convene at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA for The Official Houdini Séance on October 31. The event has been a tradition since Harry Houdini, one of the most memorable international superstars, died at 1:26PM on Halloween 100 years ago. He succumbed to peritonitis in Detroit, MI at the age of 52.Houdini’s wife, Bess, honored her husband’s wish to hold a séance every year on the day of his death for 10 years. In 1936, from the top of the Knickerbocker Hotel in Hollywood, her final séance was broadcast worldwide by radio. Despite her best efforts, no sign or manifestations appeared, and Mrs. Houdini ended her vigil.
“Besides the pact he made with his wife, Houdini enlisted other magicians and friends to conduct seances after his death,” said Séance director, William Radner of West Springfield, MA. “He boasted that if there was a way to make contact from the afterlife, he would do it. Our group follows that 100-year tradition.”
“Houdini was a very determined man,” said Radner. “His accomplishments were numerous. His story of overcoming tremendous odds inspires us to continue our attempts to break through.”
The Official Houdini Séance has taken place at numerous locations throughout the world. It is the second time the Magic Castle has hosted the séance. “We have enlisted the services of professional medium Rob Zabrecky to guide us during the evening," said Radner. "He comes to us with strong credentials. We remain hopeful."
The annual séance attracts a prestigious group of participants. This year, a very special Inner Circle member will be Debbie Hardeen Bloom, grandniece of Houdini. Others include handcuff expert Fred Pittella from Brooklyn, NY, Houdini collectors Arthur Moses from Texas, Dr. Bruce Averbook from Ohio, and Robert Somerdin from Florida, and Houdini historians Midge Markey from Washington and Tom Boldt from Wisconsin.
The Official Houdini Séance begins at 5PM PST, Oct. 31, 2026, at The Magic Castle, 7001 Franklin Ave, Hollywood, CA. The Magic Castle is a private club and open to members only. Limited members of the press will be admitted by invitation only. For press passes, please contact Dan Hewitt, 202-277-3972 or Dhewitt@MagicCastle.com.
For more information about the history of Houdini seances and Houdini, please contact Mr. Radner at 413-531-3333, Séance co-director Tom Boldt at 920-428-2335 or www.theofficialhoudiniseance.com.
Prior to the séance on Oct. 31, an important auction of Houdini memorabilia will take place at 10AM CST or 8AM PST. For further information on “Houdini Returns: The Centennial Auction” contact Potter and Potter Auctions, 773-472-1441 or info@potterauctions.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment