Ivan Amodei (born August 22, 1976) is an
illusionist
Magic, which encompasses the subgenres of close-up magic, parlor magic, and stage magic, among others, is a performing art in which audiences are entertained by tricks, effects, or illusions of seemingly impossible feats, using natural me ...
. Amodei performs at the
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, commonly known as the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, is a historic luxury hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, it was completed in 1928. It ha ...
and also tours internationally with his show ''Secrets and Illusions''.
Career
In 1999, Amodei became a regular performer at the
Magic Castle
The Magic Castle is a performance venue, restaurant, and clubhouse for the Academy of Magical Arts for magicians and magic enthusiasts in the Hollywood district of Los Angeles, California, United States. The Academy was started in 1952 by ...
in Hollywood. In 2005, he won first place at the International Brotherhood of Magicians Close-Up Competition.
In 2005, he won FIRST place at the Society of American Magicians Close-Up Competition, as well as, the People's Choice Award.
In 2010, Amodei's book ''Magic's Most Amazing Stories'' was published and was nominated by ForeWord Review for book of the year.
On October 23, 2010, Amodei opened a one-man show at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village. It was named Made in Italy.
On December 31, 2010, Amodei did a guest appearance at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills that led to an open run of his show at the hotel.
The name of the show was then changed to Intimate Illusions. Splash magazine called him a "master in his art."
In May 2012, Westlake Magazine included Ivan in their achievers issue.
In June 2012, Amodei received recognition by the honorable Mayor of Beverly Hills William W. Brien M.D. for his contribution to the world of magic and illusion.
In 2013, he celebrated his 400th show at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and was ranked as the #1 attraction in
Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is a city located in Los Angeles County, California, United States. A notable and historic suburb of Los Angeles, it is located just southwest of the Hollywood Hills, approximately northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Beverly Hil ...
, CA according to Trip Advisor.
Personal life
Born in a modest Sicilian town, he relocated to New York City at the age of 2, accompanying his hairdresser parents and uncle who ventured to establish their own salon. At around 5 years old, his parents organized a gathering where a guest showcased a selection of magic tricks, leaving an indelible mark on young Amodei.
This pivotal encounter kindled his passion for magic, leading him to discover a local magic shop in his Brooklyn neighborhood. Guided by the benevolent shop owner, he acquired proficiency in card and coin tricks, delved into books elucidating various magical techniques, and swiftly progressed to captivating audiences with his own demonstrations.
Amodei currently lives in Southern California on his ranch with his twin boy and girl and wife.
In 2016, he appeared on the season finale of ''
Penn & Teller: Fool Us'' on which he was determined to have fooled Penn & Teller based on judges' decision.
Filmography
References
External links
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Amodei, Ivan
1976 births
Living people
American magicians
Entertainers from Brooklyn