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'GHOST STORIES' and 'THE MAGICIAN'S STUDY - Enter The Darkness

SamNovak

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'GHOST STORIES' and 'THE MAGICIAN'S STUDY - Enter The Darkness

Two intimate "secret" experiences bring the dark arts to your fingertips in a pair of powerhouse shows. Which should you choose?

Long before crass hack Criss Angel gave "magic" a bad name, the mystical arts were a revered art form. Illusions, sleight of hand, mind tricks, and the participation of supposed spiritual beings gave magic a type of respect that has been forgotten by most. Thankfully, Las Vegas offers true magic fans the opportunity to witness amazing accomplishments mere inches from their eyes. They're called The Magician's Study and GHOST STORIES starring Kent Axell. Both are stunning examples of what mystical artistry was meant to be. But how do you choose which one to attend?

Official Description -

THE MAGICIAN'S STUDY - An intimate and exclusive invite-only interactive theatre experience in Las Vegas, hosted by a charming international magician in his secret study. The Study is where The Magician develops his secret craft, creating and developing his unique illusions, perfecting his prestidigitation (sleight-of-hand) as well as performing pieces from his rare and valuable collection of antique magic. These incredible illusions will most likely never be seen outside the walls of the Study. Tickets are available for purchase by invitation only and are not on sale to the general public. Those fortunate to be invited will receive a codeword that unlocks the ticketing page.

GHOST STORIES - Step back to a time in the 1920s when underground catacombs and secret chambers held contested shows of wizardry and entertaining performances for the Elite class.

A haunting journey through the mind where dreams and nightmares collide! Discover the power of the unknown at GHOST STORIES… This rare and intimate Mind Reading-Dark Magic show is only available on Fridays and Saturdays. A Haunting and Deceptive journey through the mind that is not for the faint of heart.

Be prepared!… for the WITCHING HOUR is upon us!!

The Setting -

Both shows are held at posh, intimate venues that allow for privacy and a feeling of escape. You're given a password to present along with your ticket, then ushered to a comfortable waiting area while other attendees arrive. There are opportunities to obtain cocktails before and during the performance. As both take place in bar-type establishments, all guests must be twenty-one or above. VEGAS 411 has attended four performances collectively, and each was located at a lush venue inside a major casino resort. The Magician's Study will give you a general idea of the meeting spot when reservations are made. The exact location is revealed via text several hours before starting time.

Ghost Stories takes place inside a secret parlor at 1923 Prohibition Bar, itself a hidden speakeasy. The location is adjacent to Minus 5 Ice Bar at Shoppes at Mandalay Place. It is easily accessed from either Luxor Hotel's atrium level or Mandalay Bay Resort's casino.

The Performers -

As The Magician's Study is shrouded in secrecy, so is the artist behind the mask. While his (or her) face is revealed after an introduction, the name is never actually given. We at VEGAS 411 know the truth but aren't about to share it. That may spoil the fun.

This writer has been fortunate to experience two separate magicians at The Study. They go by the secret identities of "The Rabbit" (the originator of the concept) and "The Squirrel", a guest magician. Both are world-class entertainers who present their own unique material. Be aware that no photos of your host will be permitted unless his/her mask is securely in place. Guests are urged to continue the mystery, only going so far as to share the secret password with friends.

Ghost Stories is hosted and performed by psychological illusionist Kent Axell. This handsome yet slightly sinister artist has charming wit and fascinating dexterity, weaving fiendish facial expressions with tales of the dead. More mentalism than seance, Ghost Stories blends mind reading with the occult, resulting in a show that's spooky yet light-hearted.

Post-performance Activities -

As The Magician's Study takes place at a secret location, we're unable to reveal specifics of what's available after the show. But know that a luxurious lounge, craft cocktails, gaming, and live music are very near. GHOST STORIES, being part of 1923 Prohibition Bar, is a slam-dunk of post-show fun. Every Friday and Saturday is "NOLA NIGHT". Beginning at 9 pm through midnight, live music meets burlesque for a New Orleans-style evening of bawdy fun. There is no additional charge to enjoy "NOLA NIGHTS" at 1923 Prohibition Bar, and no password is required to enter. [embed]https://vimeo.com/856492796[/embed]

Which Should You Choose?

There is no easy answer to this one. Both evoke the feeling of visiting the world-famous (and highly exclusive) Magic Castle in Los Angeles. They are unique, exciting experiences that will leave you breathless. I would like to see more actual use of the "ghost story" concept within the show carrying that name, yet you will be swept away by its current form. And at absurdly low prices, expect GHOST STORIES to catch on quickly and for prices to rise. The Magician's Study is much more expensive and harder to gain access to, but truly worth the price and effort. So take a look at these videos, make a selection, and get ready to have a great time. If they're both within your time budget, you deserve the indulgence. [embed]https://youtube.com/shorts/ibfPmTw8Dv0?feature=share[/embed] [embed]https://youtu.be/7QIh79Jf7sU[/embed]

Pricing -

The Magician's Study performs at 7:00 and 9:30 pm every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. As mentioned above, the show is by invitation only. VEGAS 411 readers can learn how to gain insider access by following this link. Seats start at $99 plus taxes/fees. Performances tend to sell out well in advance, so you may wish to plan ahead by selecting a date from this calendar. GHOST STORIES is the new kid on the block but quickly gaining traction. Performance times are 8:00 and 10:30 pm every Friday and Saturday. Tickets start at an astonishingly low $39 plus taxes/fees. Seats can be reserved by heading here.