BEVERLY HILLS TIMES INTERVIEW

We caught up to Magician Ivan Amodei, pronounced (e-von ah-moe-day) at his photo shoot for BHT Magazine in the Royal Suite at the Beverly Wilshire. Having won countless awards, including the coveted People’s Choice Award, Ivan has had a fruitful career.   After a year of sold out performances and rave reviews, Ivan sat down with BHT Magazine to discuss the secret to his show’s success. He attributes it to intimacy, world-class artistry, a fantastic experience and most importantly—a deeper message.   Naughton: Why is your show Intimate Illusions different than other magic shows?   Amodei: This is a unique, musical and magical experience. My candle-lit luxury suite seats 65 guests. Once inside, you are in my world. Add to that incredible magic, wonderful stories, hysterical situations, and fantastic live music, it’s a sensational night out on the town. Most importantly, the show sends a genuine message—one that often touches, inspires and affects guests.   Naughton: What kind of magic do you perform in the show?   Amodei: This is not a large illusion show. There aren’t any big boxes or sawing women in half. It’s more parlour style. My magic has unexpected twists, turns and powerful finales that leave you thinking about it far after the show has ended. There are light-hearted, dangerous, funny and mentally baffling illusions. Overall, it’s a 90-minute roller coaster ride, but an exclusive, first-class and entertaining evening from start to finish.   Naughton: Audiences are always surprised by how funny you are since you aren’t marketed that way. Is that on purpose?   Amodei: Yes! I want it to be a surprise and an added bonus. I’m not a typical comedian. I don’t set up jokes and then deliver a punch line. I create engaging situations that become very funny. I often improvise which makes each show different from the next.   Naughton: You are accompanied by renowned concert cellist, Irina Chirkova (think Yo-Yo Ma). How does having live music add to the show?   Amodei: Music creates an emotional feeling to what you are witnessing. The cello scores the show like a great movie and adds passionate musical pieces to heighten each illusion. You’ll hear Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart and many other wonderful composers. It’s a great part of the show. Audiences simply love it.   Naughton: So this New Year’s Eve marks the one-year anniversary of the show at the Beverly Wilshire. Do you have anything special planned?   Amodei: Yes! From here on, it is going to be one big party after another this holiday season. I have a beautiful home for my show where I get to share my passion for performing—it just doesn’t get any better than that.   Beverly Hills Times Magazine