May
The Canadian Conservatory of Magic is proud to present its special section dedicated to the ephemeris of conjuring. This section explores the fascinating history of magic throughout the year, highlighting significant events, iconic artists, and innovations that have shaped this art. We invite enthusiasts and the curious to dive into the captivating world of illusion and magic and celebrate this extraordinary heritage.
Throughout History
01
May
1995: The Magic of David Copperfield XVI: Unexplained Forces airs on CBS
03
May
1947: Birth of Doug Henning
06
May
1996: Champions of Magic airs on ABC
08
May
2020: Roy Horn dies at 75
10
May
1902: Creation of the Society of American Magicians (SAM)
14
May
1997: Harry Blackstone Jr. dies at 62
18
May
1996: Hidden Secrets of Magic airs on NBC
21
May
1967: Birth of Greg Frewin
26
May
2017: Opening of the exhibition ILLUSIONS - The Art of Magic at the McCord Museum in Montreal (the exhibition ended on January 7, 2018)
30
May
1949: Birth of Jean-Pierre Vallarino
1997: Melinda: First Lady of Magic airs on ABC
02
May
1976: Magic, Magic, Magic with Harry Blackstone Jr. airs on CBS
04
May
1865: Birth of Servais Le Roy
07
May
1983: Magic!!! Starring Harry Blackstone airs on PBS
09
May
1911: Sigmund Neuberger (Grand Lafayette) dies at 40
1921: UK premiere of the film Terror Island starring Harry Houdini and produced by Paramount Pictures
12
May
1994: David Copperfield: 15 Years of Magic airs on CBS
16
May
1908: Howard Thurston becomes Harry Kellar's successor
19
May
1980: Premiere of the show Blackstone at the Majestic Theater in New York for 104 performances
24
May
1995: Houdini: Unlocking His Secrets airs on NBC
28
May
1974: Premiere of The Magic Show with Doug Henning at the Cort Theatre in NY.
May 16, 1908
One of the most famous magic performances of the last century occurred at Ford’s Theater on May 16, 1908. That year, the eminent magician Harry Kellar embarked on his farewell tour. Upon his retirement, he wanted to “pass the wand” to the next great magician. Thurston was known for a stage show so elaborate that his props filled eight train cars. Kellar decided that his successor should be Howard Thurston, who was more famous then Houdini at the time. At his performance in Baltimore, Kellar ceremoniously placed his cape upon Thurston’s shoulders, crowning him the reigning magician.