Budapest marks centenary of Harry Houdini’s death
A four-day programme includes film screenings, circus performances and a memorial tribute to the Hungarian-born escape artist.
Budapest has begun four days of commemorations for Harry Houdini, the Hungarian-born American magician who died on 31 October 1926. The Houdini 100 programme brings together performances, a film festival and the unveiling of a relief.
David Merlini, a magician who founded Budapest’s Houdini House, said guests had travelled from around the world for the anniversary. He said the programme also features a memorial plaque unveiling, an auction of magic-related items and a night-time performance at Houdini’s birthplace on Csengery Street.
Guests include George Hardeen, a grandson of Houdini’s brother; television producer Gay Blackstone, a former president of the Academy of Magical Arts; and Péter Gloviczki, a vascular surgeon and world champion magician, Merlini said.
At the opening, District I deputy mayor Csilla Fazekas expressed pride in the Houdini House’s work preserving his legacy at Buda Castle. Born Erik Weisz in Budapest on 24 March 1874, Houdini moved to the United States with his family four years later and became known for his escape acts.
