The current witch trend has taken the entertainment industry by storm, with countless TV shows and movies featuring witches as their main characters. This newfound fascination with witchcraft has captivated audiences and sparked a renewed interest in the mystical world of spells and potions. One of the most popular witch series currently airing is "The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina," which follows the life of a teenage witch named Sabrina Spellman. The show takes a dark and thrilling approach to the world of witchcraft, incorporating elements of horror and the supernatural. With its gripping storyline and complex characters, "The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina" has garnered a large and dedicated fanbase. Another notable witch series is "Charmed," a reboot of the beloved 90s show.
I was recently invited by few friends of mine to attend The Magic Castle for shows, drinks etc. I lived in Los Angeles all my adult life and since I never been I was thrilled to visit this highly talked about Hollywood attraction. I was told here are the requirements:
As we approached the check desk to pay for the show, my two friends sailed right in and I was told that I needed a shirt and a tie or I can not enter. I am excited to announce that I will be the featured performer in the esteemed Close-Up Gallery at the legendary Magic Castle in Hollywood, California for the week of April 4th-10th.
Another notable witch series is "Charmed," a reboot of the beloved 90s show. This new incarnation follows the lives of three sisters who discover they are powerful witches destined to protect innocents from supernatural threats. This modern take on the classic series has attracted both old fans and new viewers alike, with its fresh storyline and diverse cast.
Magic casfle dress code
[Last Updated 11/4/19 9:32 PM PT—photo added]
The first time I got invited to the Magic Castle, I didn't realize what a special invitation it was. I didn't live in LA yet. I thought the only exclusive Hollywood parties were movie premieres and awards show ceremonies.
But the Magic Castle is pretty hard to get into unless someone invites you. And you must be invited by a member of the private club that's housed there.
That means, most likely, you must be invited by a magician.
Fortunately, LA attracts so many aspiring performers, while you're here, you'll probably come across a magician or two. Or a puppeteer or a comedian who happens to know enough magic to qualify for membership.
But while you're waiting for that invitation, the Magic Castle awaits you—perched up on a hill above Hollywood Boulevard, looking down at both the tourists and the locals who aren't "in the know," and may never get the chance to get in there.
circa 2019If you do know, and if you've ever been there, all you can think about is how you can get back in. It taunts you with its exclusivity.
Even an invitation doesn't guarantee you admission. You have to adhere to a strict dress code: suit coats and ties for men, dresses or pants suits for ladies, no athletic shoes or flip flops, and no denim anywhere (not even a denim suit). If your dress is not acceptable, they won't let you in. Although they have some jackets and ties for men to borrow, they're intentionally horrible to shame you for not wearing proper attire.
The Magic Castle isn't a castle exactly—it's more of a converted Victorian mansion that just kept growing, its magical elements proliferating.
And since 1963, it's been the clubhouse for the Academy of Magical Arts, and a sought-after destination for Hollywood's most bizarre nightlife.
circa 2018Once you've been invited, gotten all dressed up, and made it through the front door into the lobby.
. getting through the secret bookcase and into the Castle is as easy as "Open Sesame."
circa 2018Prepare to be amazed.
circa 2016The magic shows change every week, with each professional magician doing shows on a seven-day rotation. Even on a relatively slow Monday night, there are three performance spaces open—the tiny Close-Up Gallery, the Parlour of Prestidigitation, and The Palace of Mystery—each with multiple performers doing multiple shows throughout the night. Later in the week, you can also find magic at the W.C. Fields Bar and The Peller Theatre, and maybe an impromptu performance at the Hat and Hare Pub.
When it comes down to it, though, you can find magic pretty much anywhere at The Magic Castle—not just in the official performance venues. Magicians (often amateurs) might set up at a table at any given corner, or do a trick or two for their guests during dinner. The Magic Castle is a bit like Disneyland, with all of its Easter eggs hidden throughout the winding hallways and multiple levels of an enchanting labyrinth.
circa 2016Strike up a conversation with an unlikely companion at The Owl Bar. Press a button and watch ghostly apparitions appear and disappear. Contact Houdini during a seance.
Throw a dollar (or two or three) into a bird cage and request a song (or two or three) from Irma, the piano-playing ghost who haunts the mansion. Her repertoire ranges from Tin Pan Alley to Taylor Swift.
Much of the castle's decor was salvaged from film and TV movie sets (the headboard from The Witches of Eastwick, the backdrop from Johnny Carson's Tonight Show, the bar from Hello Dolly). Even some of the walls are made of salvaged doors, whose keyholes are still visible.
With its hidden passageways, memorabilia, spirits, and surprises, it feels akin to the Mission Inn in Riverside or the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. I've managed to get into the Magic Castle three times so far—each through a different person or organization—and I still haven't seen everything. As they say, "There's a lot to see, so try to avoid blinking."
It's a Mecca for magicians—and for magic enthusiasts—but it's also a piece of living history, and a repository of artifacts that are both bewitched and bewitching. The whole experience is a bit baffling. Delightfully so.
Photography is forbidden anywhere inside—even in the restrooms. And whatever you're privy to while you're there, you're sworn to secrecy once you've left.
In addition to these TV shows, there have been numerous witch movies released in recent years. One example is "The Witch," a critically acclaimed horror film set in 17th century New England. This atmospheric and chilling movie explores the themes of religious hysteria and witchcraft, leaving audiences in awe of its dark and unsettling story. The current witch series and movies have tapped into a desire for escapism and exploration of the supernatural. From the popularity of "The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina" to the resurgence of "Charmed" and the success of movies like "The Witch," witches have become a prominent and intriguing figure in contemporary entertainment. As audiences continue to embrace these witch series and films, it will be interesting to see how the trend evolves and what new stories and perspectives will emerge in the magical world of witches..
Reviews for "The Rise of the Witch Series: A Genre Phenomenon"
1. Sarah - 2 stars
I was really excited to start "The Current Witch" series, as I had heard great things about it. However, I was sorely disappointed. The characters felt one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it difficult for me to connect with them. Additionally, the plot was predictable and I found myself bored by the lack of originality. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this series to others looking for an engaging and captivating read.
2. Sam - 1 star
I couldn't get through the first book of "The Current Witch" series. The writing style was choppy and the pacing was off, making it a struggle to stay engaged. The protagonist was whiny and annoying, and it felt like the author was trying too hard to make her relatable. The world-building was also lacking, leaving me confused and uninterested in the story. I ended up giving up on the series altogether, as it just wasn't for me.
3. Emily - 3 stars
While "The Current Witch" series had an intriguing premise, the execution fell flat for me. The writing was mediocre at best, with awkward dialogue and repetitive descriptions. The love triangle subplot felt forced and cliché, adding nothing substantial to the story. Despite this, I did find some enjoyment in the unique magical elements introduced. However, I don't think I will continue with the series, as there are other more well-crafted fantasy novels out there.
4. Jason - 2 stars
I was disappointed with "The Current Witch" series. The overall plot lacked coherence and direction, making it difficult for me to follow and invest in the story. The characters were forgettable and lacked development, which prevented me from forming any attachment to them. Additionally, the use of tropes and predictable twists further contributed to my lack of enjoyment. Overall, I found the series to be lackluster and would not recommend it to fans of the fantasy genre.