On the evening of April 6th, media and selected guests were invited to a preview opening night of A State of Mind – The Illusion of Choice at Casa Loma. Not too long ago President & CEO of Liberty Entertainment, Nick Di Donato was at Los Angeles’ Magic Castle where he met Jeff Kaylor. Together they discussed the possibility of staging something special here in Toronto because Liberty Entertainment has for years partnered with the city of Toronto to bring people of all ages to our legendary castle on the hill. Pure magic, right ! And it is. I really enjoyed the history and attention to detail that went into turning the 800 foot tunnel below Austin Terrace into a history lesson of sorts, really the opening act as to what would lay ahead. Pictures and video clips feature some of the famous and greatest conjurers of illusion of all time. I could not get enough of this fascinating walk back into time.
Next up is the Celebrity Walk which is like a wax museum with famous actors in movie sets that were actually filmed at Casa Loma. A brilliant touch once again – another illusion. There are actually two shows to enjoy. Without giving away too much, world famous Jeff Kaylor has a way with cards and coins for an intimate up-close show in the specially designed Stables theatre. Sit up front and you will be in his show for sure. Music meets the magic on intermission, again in the Stables space. Next up, although each evening can be reversed is Lawrence Larouche, a 40 career mentalist who quickly knows what you think of him. Lots of laughs and “I can’t believe that” moments with Miraculum – Sleight of Mind at the larger Carriage Room Theatre. Audience members actually become part of this cast by curtain call as you will soon see. I applaud Liberty Entertainment for other themed experiences back to the annual Legends of Horror and the very recent Twilight Symphonies celebrating the Casa Loma early days with big band music. Our thanks to Susan Willemsen of the Siren Group Inc. for our invitation.
