Illusions, Innovations, and Magical Sensations | Gilded Age Magicians

Mesmerized by sleight of hand, and baffled by larger than life illusions, stage magic has long since fascinated audiences. Legends like Thurston, Kellar, and Houdini each developed unique forms of the craft and found celebrity throughout their careers. Whether one’s interest was in debunking the mystery or the innovation of illusion, sold-out crowds flocked to witness performances at well-known venues like the impressive New York Hippodrome.