The cost of a Magic Castle membership can vary depending on the level of membership and additional privileges. As of 2021, there are three levels of membership available: Regular, Magician, and Platinum. Regular membership is the most basic and least expensive option. The initiation fee for Regular membership is around $1,500, and the annual dues are approximately $1,200. This level of membership provides access to the Magic Castle and its shows, as well as certain dining privileges and the ability to bring guests. Magician membership is the next level up and offers additional benefits to regular members.

The Academy of Magical Arts A non-profit social order dedicated to the advancement of magic

Magician membership is the next level up and offers additional benefits to regular members. The initiation fee for Magician membership is approximately $2,500, and the annual dues are around $2,100. In addition to the benefits of Regular members, Magician members enjoy priority access to shows and events, as well as the opportunity to perform in the Castle's Inner Circle and other private areas.

A Miracle Here, A Miracle There,
Pretty Soon It Starts To Add Up

O ur organization promotes the art of magic, encourages fellowship and maintains the highest ethical standards. We provide a friendly, inspiring environment where members and their guests can enjoy the art and each other’s company. Our goals are to advance the art and promote a positive image of magic and magicians worldwide.

Magician

magician members are qualified magicians who are actively practicing magic either as a career or hobby, and have auditioned before Academy’s membership reviewing committee. Also included in the Magician Membership are non-performers, such as producers, writers, magic historians, scholars, and inventors who have demonstrated more than a superficial interest and knowledge of magic. Currently, there are close to 2,500 Magician Members in the Academy living in more than two dozen countries around the world.

Associate

People who love the art of magic and our Club. Many of these Members are professionals from the worlds of entertainment, law, finance, and medicine. Some are amateur magicians who don’t necessarily perform but enjoy magic, its history, and its allied arts as a hobby. Others are friends of Magician Members who enjoy the unique atmosphere of the most awe-inducing private clubhouse in the world. Associate Member applications must be approved by the Board of Directors.

Honorary

honorary life memberships and vip memberships are presented by the Board of Directors to world-famous magicians, celebrities, and individual members of the Academy who have contributed to the advancement of the art of magic.

Junior

Junior Magician Members are qualified young magicians between the ages of 13 & 20 years-old who are actively practicing magic at an exceptionally high level for their age having auditioned before the Academy’s Junior Committee. Alumni of the program include successful & award-winning artists such as Dirk Arthur, Bill Goodwin, Neil Patrick Harris, Christopher Hart, Kevin James, Mark Kalin and Michael Weber.

Any questions regarding Membership with the

Academy of Magical Arts can be directed to:

[email protected]
Or Call (323) 851-3313 EXT. 301

our members are proud to be part of an internationally recognized organization that advances the art and develops new ways of stimulating interest in magic. Among our most beloved efforts is The Magic Castle, our home, and the most unique private clubhouse in the world.

THE MAGIC CASTLE is an exclusive private club. Guests must be invited or accompanied by a Member.

Dress Code strictly enforced.

Reservations

(323)-851-3313

7001 Franklin Avenue

Hollywood, CA 90028

Hours of Operation

• [ CLUBHOUSE ]
• Dinner - Monday - Sunday 5:00pm - 1:00am
• Brunch - Saturday & Sunday 10:00am - 3:00pm
• [ RESERVATIONS ]
• Monday - Sunday 9:00am - 5:00pm
• [ EXECUTIVE OFFICES ]
• Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
• Saturday - Sunday Closed

• © 1996-2024
• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Employment Opportunities

Cost of magic castle membership

Within the next several months I will be applying for membership to the Magic Castle.

I understand the membership board will ask you questions and have you perform a 10 minutes magic program.

I am interested to hear from other members what the interview is like and to what skill level your magic program should be.

Any information will be greatly appreciated.

Just be able to perform some of your best material smoothly. Show them that you are a competent performer and that you care about the art and you are in. You will have tons of fun at the tryout. You'll probably make some friends instantly. I still talk to all the guys who were there with me when I tried out.

Here is the Magic Castles main address:
http://www.magiccastle.com

Success comes before work only in the dictionary. - Anonymous

I heard that you have to travel to England, find someone with a B or A or Z in their name and turn their empty bank account into a really full one. Then you have to make a new lotus appear and give it to that person and then you become a member.

But that's only what I heard

Best of luck to you. Let us know how you get on Palle!

Thanks for the good wishes. Oh yes, forgot about the coat and tie dress code, I'll make sure I look presentable.
palle.

If you live outside of Los Angeles, you do not need any skill. You only need a checking account. Sad.

The "Magic Castle" is a Bar and Restaraunt with magic shows scheduled throughout the day. To visit the Castle all you have to do is provide a membership card from a magic club i.e. SAM/IBM. Otherwise, you show a trick to the person at the desk. It is best to call in advance.

The Castle is private "Social" club, not a magic club. They did have a youth club, I don't know if they still have this. As with all great things, I don't think it is the place it used to be.

The kids have taken over the business and are not as interested in Magic as their parents and the founders. They sold off the Genii Magazine, due to not willing to "work" at putting out a magazine.

I had the pleasure to vist the Castle in 1980, on Valentine's day. It was fun sitting and doing close-up for all the visitors. They have members hand out passes for visiting. If you like the bar scene it is a great place to be. You can see some of the best acts in magic, famous or not.

I hope this helps answer your question. Remember, your not joining a magic organization but a private social club.

On 2003-05-10 17:38, dpe666 wrote:
If you live outside of Los Angeles, you do not need any skill. You only need a checking account. Sad.

Quite true. It is sad.

Wmhegbli, the Junior Group is still going strong. I'd say we have about 50 or so kids. Possibly more. Were you saying the kids in the group don't care about magic?

If so then you are entirley wrong. All of us in the Junior Group have joined because we truly love magic. You really have to come out again and see what some of the kids are doing.

Go pick up a copy of Hit The Road (if you don't have it already) and watch Ashford Knietel. The kid is so incredibly good. First time I went to hang out at a Jr. Meeting he showed that card compass to me. He is incredibly smooth and REALLY cares about the art.

Another guy that is dedicated is Matthew Grunwald. He flys out from Montana (I think that is right) once a month to attend meetings and work brunch.

1980 was a long time ago so many things have changed. I wouldn't classify the Castle as just a "social" club. It is a Private Club for Magicians. If it wasn't then why would you need to become a member of The Academy of Magical Arts?

The kids have taken over the business and are not as interested in Magic as their parents and the founders. They sold off the Genii Magazine, due to not willing to "work" at putting out a magazine.

NOT TRUE the "kids?" have not taken over the Magic Castle, the founders were Bill and Milt Larsen. Bill is deceased, but Milt still runs the bar/restaurant business and the Acadamy of Magical Arts' Board of Directors run the "club" aspect.

These are all dedicated magicians and business men making the everyday decisions. no "kids" in charge.

The Junior Group is strong, one of its members, Jason Latimer just won just about everything this past year including FISM Grand Prix, Close up and Originality the $5,000 Siegfried and Roy Sarmoti award, etc. etc.

The Castle is as good as you want to make it.

Rather a late post, but as I just passed my magicians membership audition last week (January 5th, 2004) I can tell you that performing a trick at the door is not a way to get in.

Secondly, it is an organization it's called the Academy of the Magical Arts (at the Magic Castle) which, by definition is an organization as is McDonalds, JC Penney, etc.

Lastly, out of towners don't get all the benefits of us intowners and as such, not any intowner can just get all the benefits because of a checkbook.

The cruel fact is, there's a business side to every cop, palm, false count, smile and joke that happens at the Castle and there needs to be in sure the magic continues.

Those simple 'patrons of the art' can simply 'pay' and get an associates membership (with only associates privledges) but they miss out on some real bonuses.

Which leads me to conclude with the Magic Castle is still recognized the world over as one of if not the most unique venues and organizations perpetuating the field and art of magic today.

It IS the Magic Castle no matter what anyone makes of it.
--------------------------------
PS. Since the original post was so long ago. Palle did you make it in? I'd like to meet you sometime.

If you haven't tried yet, the simple answer is: get three good, solid effects together. They don't have to be new, cutting edge effects that are popular they just have to be good.

Preferably, ungimmicked to show a true interest

I live on the East coast and so can become a member with appropriate payment. I have declined to join this way. I very much like the idea that one must audition to become a member. This leads to questions that have never been answered to my satisfaction:

1) What is the skill level required for a successful audition?

2) Is there a written (or stated) standard to be achieved?

Gianna, because you don't live by the Castle (i.e. Southern California) you cannot join as a magician member, but instead, must join as an associate if you wish to join at all (considering you don't want to move!)

As far as skill level check some of the above posts. As long as you have 3 good tricks (stay away from gaffs) then you are pretty much a shoe-in.

There are actually 4 types of members for The Magic Castle. There are Resident Associate members and Non-resident Associate members. Associate members are people who love the art of Magic and The Magic Castle. Many are professionals in the entertainment industry, while others are friends of members who enjoy visiting The Magic Castle. The other two types of members are Magicians and Non-resident Magicians. Resident magician members are interviewed by the Membership committee and are asked to demonstrate some simple magic effects for the committee. Non-resident Magician members must have a background in magic and are paying members of a recognized magical organization, such as, but not limited to, the IBM or SAM. Non-resident applicants must live outside the local area and the California counties are listed on The Magic Castle web site.

Congratulations Thumbslinger .
It is my intention to apply this year.
What effects or tricks did you do ?

"A miracle is something that seems impossible but happens anyway" - Griffin

"Any future where you succeed, is one where you tell the truth." - Griffin (Griffin rocks!)

On 2003-05-10 10:31, Baz94 wrote:
I heard that you have to travel to England, find someone with a B or A or Z in their name and turn their empty bank account into a really full one. Then you have to make a new lotus appear and give it to that person and then you become a member.

But that's only what I heard

Best of luck to you. Let us know how you get on Palle!

So, to join the Magic Circle do you have to travel to California?

It seems you would benefit most by going there. I am a member and have been for about 10 years, but don't make it over there too often.

On Dec 4, 2003, Bill Hegbli wrote:
The "Magic Castle" is a Bar and Restaraunt with magic shows scheduled throughout the day. To visit the Castle all you have to do is provide a membership card from a magic club i.e. SAM/IBM. Otherwise, you show a trick to the person at the desk. It is best to call in advance.

The Castle is private "Social" club, not a magic club. They did have a youth club, I don't know if they still have this. As with all great things, I don't think it is the place it used to be.

The kids have taken over the business and are not as interested in Magic as their parents and the founders. They sold off the Genii Magazine, due to not willing to "work" at putting out a magazine.

I had the pleasure to vist the Castle in 1980, on Valentine's day. It was fun sitting and doing close-up for all the visitors. They have members hand out passes for visiting. If you like the bar scene it is a great place to be. You can see some of the best acts in magic, famous or not.

I hope this helps answer your question. Remember, your not joining a magic organization but a private social club.

does this still hold true for today? If I showed them a trick/show my IBM/SAM membership they will let me in? Do you need reservations or anything?

Sorry for the confusion. By kids I meant Bill Larsen's children, If you read the magazine Forward, Bill Larsen himself told many times how he would assign magazine publication tasks to his daughter and son and they did not follow through. They wanted nothing to do with helping their father with the magazine. That is why the magazine got so far behind in publication in the 1980's and 1990's. It took 2 years to get one year published. Subscriptions became very confusing when your renewal was due.

The 1st reference to kids, was referring to the junior magic club at the Castle. There were some really good Junior magicians that came out of that group. I seen a few acts that you would swear they were professionals, and had been doing magic for years. Very polished performers.

Hope this makes my comments more clear in the above post.

The Magic Castle

The Magic Castle is made for literally anybody who likes the art of magic. It is a very famous nightclub that is frequented by magicians and magic lovers. Los Angeles also has a very well- known academy of Magical Arts. This place also acts as the clubhouse for that academy. You can go have a great time here and it is also an interesting place to meet new people who are sure to increase your knowledge of magic. The dining here is quite famous too and it would not be wrong to say, that your experience here is going to be magical, literally! Also, visit the popular attractions in the city by following Los Angeles itinerary 3 days.

Platinum membership is the highest level of membership and comes with the most exclusive privileges. The initiation fee for Platinum membership is around $10,000, and the annual dues are approximately $2,900. This level of membership grants access to all areas of the Magic Castle and offers priority status for reservations and show seating. Platinum members also have the option to book private events at the Castle and receive additional guest privileges. Along with the aforementioned costs, it is important to note that Magic Castle memberships require a sponsorship from two existing members and are subject to an application process. Additionally, the annual dues for all membership levels are subject to change. While the cost of a Magic Castle membership may seem high, for those who are passionate about magic and the performing arts, the benefits and experiences offered by the Castle can outweigh the financial investment. The Castle provides a unique and exclusive venue for magic enthusiasts to enjoy performances, connect with fellow magicians, and immerse themselves in the world of illusion..

Reviews for "Decoding the expenses of a Magic Castle membership."

1. Emily - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with my experience at the Magic Castle. The membership fee is extremely high and I didn't feel like it was worth the price. The performances were lackluster and the overall atmosphere was a bit pretentious. I've been to other magic clubs that offer a much better value for the money. I wouldn't recommend joining the Magic Castle unless you're a die-hard magic enthusiast.

2. John - 1 star - I've heard so much hype about the Magic Castle, but I don't understand what the fuss is all about. The membership cost is outrageous and the perks are not worth it. The shows were average at best and the food and drinks were overpriced. I expected so much more considering the reputation of the place. Save your money and find better entertainment options elsewhere.

3. Sarah - 2 stars - As someone who loves magic, I was really excited to become a member of the Magic Castle. However, the high cost of membership left me feeling disappointed. The shows were hit or miss, and it was difficult to secure reservations for the performances I really wanted to see. Additionally, the service was subpar, with long waits and disinterested staff. Overall, I didn't feel like the Magic Castle membership was worth the money and I won't be renewing it.

4. Mike - 1 star - I couldn't believe how much the Magic Castle membership cost, especially considering the underwhelming experience. The magic performances were average, and the food and drinks were overpriced and not of great quality. The exclusivity of the place left a sour taste in my mouth, and it felt more like a gimmick than a magical experience. I regretted spending my money on the membership and wouldn't recommend it to others.

How to justify the cost of a Magic Castle membership to skeptics.