The upstairs of the historic Avalon Theatre is the setting of Magic and Wine (photo by Nikki Kreuzer)
The wine selections of the night (photo by Nikki Kreuzer)
Wanting to weave an intoxicating spell of enchantment for a noteworthy occasion or to impress a special someone? Nothing whispers romance like the combination of a little wine tasting and magical wizardry held within a historic Hollywood theatre, where the walls themselves breathe simple sighs of memories. Magic and Wine, a show combining the close-up trickery of magician David Minkin and held in the charming Bardot, part of the Avalon Theatre built in 1927, creates an aura of warmth and bewitching good times.
Appetizers and wine are part of the enchanting evening (photo by Nikki Kreuzer)
The evening begins with elegance as guests meet in the gorgeous upstairs bar area of the old Avalon, where the architectural elements create a captivating ambiance. This building was designed in the Spanish Baroque style and the original Jazz Age ornamental flourishes add a haunted beauty and mystery to the occasion. As guests get comfortable, a presentation of the night’s four wine selections is given by two friendly hosts and the cheerful pouring commences. A buffet of appetizers, including cheeses, fruits, chicken skewers and bruschetta allows guests to cleanse their palates between glasses. The wine pourings are generous and given such, a warm, fuzzy solicitude is the pervasive feeling of the night. After an hour of upbeat tastings, guests are called to a small theatre room where David Minkin’s skilled sorcery and precise prestidigitation is ready to be displayed.
Magician David Minkin performs a card trick with a stunned audience volunteer (photo by Nikki Kreuzer)
Minkin’s magnetism and skill charms the pleasantly wine-soaked audience. Many gasp in disbelief as he performs close-up, eye-defying sleight of hand. Volunteers are selected to participate in the magic making and much amazement and amusement abounds. It seems as if a general spell of good cheer has been cast. Minkin, a member and regular performer of the prestigious Magic Castle has won awards and tours internationally. He was a cast member of the Travel Channel’s Magic Outlaws and MTV’s Room 401 and has appeared on the hit show American Idol. His adeptness with his magic keeps the crowd engaged and joyfully entertained.
One of the hosts of the wine part of the evening (photo by Nikki Kreuzer)
The Magic and Wine event is top-notch on every level and is the perfect night out, sure to impress and inspire. Historic architecture, magic and wine make a spot-on perfect combination. Do yourself a favor and revel in this enthralling evening of beguilement. It will surely create mystical memories.
Magic and Wine: Bardot, 1737 N. Vine Street, Hollywood, CA 90028; (866) 737-3436. www.magicandwine.com
