Magician to Hold Fundraiser for Magic Castle Repairs

It has been nearly a month since at the Magic Castle, and magician David Minkin wants to do his part to help the establishment he loves.

Minkin plans to host a fundraiser on Sunday to benefit the Hollywood landmark.

“The Magic Castle is so dear to my heart because, literally, it made me the performer I am today,” Minkin said. “We’re just lucky here in Southern California to have that place.”

The private club serves as a regular home to magicians and magic enthusiasts. Since the fire, the Magic Castle, at 7001 Franklin Ave., has been closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

“It’s taking a bit of a hit in terms of business,” Minkin said.

The fire was accidental and caused by “careless use of a torch by contractors on site,” said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey. Darren Ross, who manages the Magic Castle property, said it is too early to know any damage estimates.

Minkin plans to donate 100 percent of the proceeds from Sunday night’s fundraiser to the Magic Castle.

Dubbed “David Minkin’s Evening of Enchantment,” the fundraiser will take place at the Beau Rivage, at 26025 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, and will include wine tastings and a performance by Minkin in a candle-lit wine cellar. The tickets are $85. The show is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.

Erin Chick, the Magic Castle’s group sales and event manager, said Magic Castle’s management is grateful to Minkin and anything any Magic Castle members are doing to help.

“He always tends to get a full house,” Chick said. “It’s a very popular show.”

Tickets are available online or by calling 866-737-3436.

To donate directly to Magic Castle's “Inferno Fund," visit magiccastle.com.