-By Jessica Schultz-
Who remembers the Forks Hotel in Cheektowaga? If you do, you must remember their legendary magic shows and displays that went on daily. They were a hub for local and traveling stage magic talent and people came in to see their favorites perform. The Forks may be gone but the Silver Fox in Ellicottville is bringing back the feelings on November 4th at 6pm with their 2nd Annual Magic Show and Dinner. Local magicians will wow guests an hour before and an hour after dinner. The Villager had a chance to speak with local magician James “Jim” O’Neill about the upcoming event.
The Villager: This is the 2nd year of performing at the Silver Fox, who are all the magicians (as well as yourself) that are performing?
James (J): “Besides myself, there is Todd Nelson, Ted Burczynski and Mike Gallo.”
V: What types of magic do each of you excel in?
J: “Mike Gallo is an internationally known close-up magician and lecturer. Mike has produced numerous videos, and has developed and invented numerous tricks and routines which have appeared in numerous books and publications. Todd Nelson and Ted Burczynski are extremely talented local magicians and perform both close-up and stage magic. They will delight and astound you. I, myself am the past President of the Gene Gordon-Karl Norman Ring 12 International Brotherhood of Magicians and I’ve been doing close-up magic for over 50 years. Primarily as a bartender of numerous establishments in the Buffalo area. All of us have had a relationship with Eddie Fechter from the Fork Hotel in Cheektowaga, NY.”
V: What do you believe makes this event so special for guests?
J: “The guests at the Silver Fox restaurant will be treated to up close and personal tableside magic that will truly amaze them.”
V: What exactly is the difference between close-up magic and stage magic?
J: “Close up magic is usually performed for a small group at a bar or restaurant. The patrons are usually seated. The magician will use a variety of props like cards, coins, ropes and sponge balls. Stage magic is performed for large groups and may involve large props; example, sawing a woman in half, levitations and sometimes animal productions. Anyone who has never seen a live magic show is in for a special night.”
V: Anything else you would like to add?
J: “Finally with the slowing of the Covid-19 pandemic the phones are starting to ring and magicians are back to work. We look forward to seeing everyone. This will be our second show at the Silver Fox Steakhouse. Last year’s show sold out quickly and several people had to be turned away. Come and enjoy a delicious meal and see some first-class entertainment.”
Thank you, James, for taking the time to share such great information on the event. The November 4th Silver Fox Steakhouse Magic Show includes dinner, tax, and gratuity for $105 per person. Entrée choices are Boneless Short Ribs, Four Cheese Pasta Beggar’s Purses with Chicken, and Pistachio Crusted Grouper. A bottle of table wine is served per four guests. This event is by reservation only, and reservations can be made by calling (716) 699-4672.