New Orleans Voodoo Doll New Orleans Voodoo Dolls are an iconic symbol of the city's rich African and Afro-Caribbean spiritual traditions. These dolls, also known as gris-gris or mojo dolls, are believed to possess magical powers and are used in rituals and spells for protection, healing, and attracting luck and love. Voodoo dolls are typically made from various materials such as fabric, clay, wood, or wax. They are intricately crafted to resemble a human figure, with details such as facial features, hair, and clothing. Each doll is unique and personalized, often representing a specific individual or purpose. In Voodoo beliefs, the doll acts as a conduit for spiritual forces to be directed towards a specific person or situation.
Recently named Canadian Magician of the Year by Canadian Association of Magicians, Bill Abbott has created magic illusions and effects for “America’s Got Talent” and “The Steve Harvey Show” as well as networks and streaming services such as The Disney Channel, Netflix, FOX and NBC.
Over the past few years, he has headlined the most exclusive boutique venues across the United States with performances at the Chicago Magic Lounge, The House Of Cards in Nashville and the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. Your enchanting experience begins with a complimentary welcome cocktail in the opulent Cobalt Lounge and exclusive access to the VIP area where Bill Abbott will entertain with pre-show sleight-of-hand magic.
In Voodoo beliefs, the doll acts as a conduit for spiritual forces to be directed towards a specific person or situation. The doll is linked to its recipient through personal items, such as hair, nails, or clothing, which are attached to the doll. Pins or other objects are then used to focus and channel energy towards the desired outcome.
Upscale, intimate magic show opens at Casa Monica
A twist on a Prohibition-era classic cocktail called The Last Word, The Magic Word is an original creation by the food and beverage team at Casa Monica Resort & Spa and is included on the special Magic Hideaway cocktail menu.
1.25 oz St. Augustine Distillery Gin
1.25 oz Lime Juice
1.25 oz Green Chartreuse
1.25 oz Disaronno Amaretto
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a shaking tin full of ice and shake vigorously. Double strain into a coup or martini glass and add citrus Flavour Blaster Bubble to top with a commercial-grade bubble gun. When served, say your favorite magic word and pop the bubble with your wand to drink.
When magician Bill Abbott and his wife, Rebecca, moved from Toronto, Canada, to St. Augustine four years ago, they knew that the Nation’s Oldest City would be the place where they would bring his lifelong dream of creating an upscale, intimate magic show to reality.
Magic Hideaway, a boutique two-hour magic experience, opened in May at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa. The performances will be held at 8:30 p.m. each Friday and Saturday this month. After June 30, they will be held at 6 and 8:30 p.m. every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
“I have performed over 5,000 shows in 11 countries around the world,” Bill Abbott said. “The best shows are always the ones in intimate settings where I am able to interact with guests and create a magical environment. That is what Rebecca and I have created here. We have worked directly with Richard Kessler, chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection, which owns Casa Monica, and the hotel’s staff, who have been absolutely amazing, to create this one-of-a-kind experience.”
Once guests have arrived at the Casa Monica, they choose from a menu of complimentary magic-themed welcome cocktails to enjoy in the opulent Cobalt Lounge with exclusive access to the VIP area where Abbott will entertain with pre-show sleight of hand magic before everyone is ushered by House Manager Rebecca Abbott into the Magic Hideaway showroom.
Styled after a vintage jazz club, the showroom is a 22-seat venue featuring glowing crystal balls, Moroccan chandelier, majestic palms and carefully arranged seating so everyone is within touching distance of the magic. Once the house lights dim, Abbott takes the stage to perform one of the most intimate magic shows in the world featuring interactive, mind-bending illusions.
“Magic is meant to transport you to a different headspace and to keep you living in the moment,” he explained. “During my show, I perform a type of magic called sleight of hand as well as a psychological-based mentalism. I also lean on my born showmanship, sarcasm, improv skills and dry humor to entertain the audience. By the end of the show, the entire room becomes connected. Magic Hideaway is a collective experience.”
Recently named Canadian Magician of the Year by Canadian Association of Magicians, Bill Abbott has created magic illusions and effects for “America’s Got Talent” and “The Steve Harvey Show” as well as networks and streaming services such as The Disney Channel, Netflix, FOX and NBC.
Over the past few years, he has headlined the most exclusive boutique venues across the United States with performances at the Chicago Magic Lounge, The House Of Cards in Nashville and the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood.
Magic Hideaway tickets are $125 per person and include a welcome cocktail, Cobalt Lounge VIP access, pre-show sleight of hand, Magic Hideaway Showroom Experience and post-performance social for autographs and photos.
Tickets and additional information are available at magichideaway.com. Follow along on social media Facebook @themagichideaway and Instagram @magichideaway.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa is located at 95 Cordova St. in downtown St. Augustine.
Tickets and additional information are available at magichideaway.com. Follow along on social media Facebook @themagichideaway and Instagram @magichideaway.
Contrary to popular belief, Voodoo dolls are not intended for harm or manipulation. Rather, they are used as a means of healing and empowerment. They can be employed in rituals to bring about positive change, such as attracting love, enhancing fertility, or improving health. New Orleans has a long history of Voodoo, originating from the African diaspora brought to the city by enslaved people. With influences from African, Native American, and European spiritual practices, the Voodoo tradition in New Orleans is a unique blend of cultural and religious elements. Today, Voodoo is still practiced by many in the city, with shops and practitioners offering Voodoo dolls and other ritual items. Voodoo dolls have also become popular tourist souvenirs, often seen in gift shops and markets throughout New Orleans. While these commercially-made dolls may lack the spiritual significance of authentic Voodoo dolls used in rituals, they still serve as a intriguing reminder of the city's mystical traditions. In conclusion, New Orleans Voodoo dolls are an integral part of the city's cultural and spiritual heritage. They represent the rich history of Voodoo in New Orleans and its continued influence on the city's identity. Whether used in rituals or admired as collectibles, these dolls capture the fascination and allure of this mystical practice..
Reviews for "The Powers of New Orleans Voodoo Dolls: Fact or Fiction?"
- Jessica - 1 star - I was really disappointed with this voodoo doll. First of all, the quality was really poor, with loose threads all over and uneven stitching. Secondly, the doll itself looked nothing like a traditional voodoo doll. It was more like a generic toy with a tacky "New Orleans" label slapped on it. I expected something more authentic and unique. Overall, I would not recommend this voodoo doll to anyone looking for a genuine, well-made collectible.
- David - 2 stars - I was really excited to get this New Orleans voodoo doll, but it ended up being very underwhelming. The doll looked nothing like the picture advertised, and the colors were faded and dull. The pins were also really flimsy and kept falling out easily. I understand that voodoo dolls are mostly for decorative purposes, but the lack of attention to detail and overall quality was a letdown. I would advise looking elsewhere for a more authentic and well-crafted voodoo doll.
- Samantha - 2 stars - I bought this New Orleans voodoo doll as a souvenir from my trip, but I regretted it almost immediately. The doll felt cheap and poorly made. The fabric was thin, and the stitching was shoddy. The pins that came with it were also easily bendable and looked like they would snap at any moment. I had hoped to display this doll in my home, but I ended up throwing it in the trash. Save your money and find a better representation of New Orleans culture.