1982’s “World of Magic” Newspaper Clipping

Both Doug and guest star Ann Jillian seem in various states of surprise in this promotional clipping from 1982.  As you may know the special starred Ann Jillian, a then Bruce Jenner (Caitlyn) Jenner, Billy Crystal, and Cherish Alexander. Throughout the show, they all explored a big magical house, and you’ll just have to wait…

The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club

It just dawned on me that it wouldn’t be a proper Doug Henning website without mentioning “The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club”out of Hamilton, Ontario. The club itself was founded in 1927, but was officially designated by the International Brotherhood of Magicians as chapter “I.B.M 49” in 1947.  While attending McMaster University, Doug himself was…

Final Tonight Show Appearance Clip?

The above clip recently appeared on the excellent You Tube channel “Sleight of Direction,” and is quite possibly Doug’s final appearance on “The Tonight Show.” It really has something for everyone, and moves seamlessly from smaller to medium sized magic in a  fun and breezy way.  While I don’t have a list of all of…

“World of Magic II” Unseen Photos: Part Three

As I wrap up the photos from 1976’s “World of Magic,” it’s interesting to note that it has been brought to my attention that some of these may be from the on-air and live versions. While I wasn’t sure at the time, the first two from the metal ring illusion below seem to prove it. The…

“World of Magic II” Unseen Photos: Part Two

These and future photographs are copyrighted by Dave Collier. Any usage of them outside of this website, without his or The Magic Castle Library’s permission will be considered an infringement of their use. 

“World of Magic II” Unseen Photos

Courtesy of Dave Collier and Bill Goodwin are some more amazing and never before seen photos from  1976’s “World of Magic II.” I feel each one is unique all unto itself, and very much gives us a taste of the electricity that is live programming.  For all of you interested in reading my interview with…

Doug Henning and Learning How to Fly

It’s not a big secret that Doug Henning was really into Transcendental Meditation. REALLY into it. He was into it so much, that he devoted himself and his energies 1000% to the mysterious calming practice and organization. Magic was an after thought for him, and one that he soon left behind around 1987.  For good…

Dave Collier Photos: World of After Parties!

As what happens with all great television productions there is that fabled and wondrous event called: The After Party! From the looks of it, “World of Magic’s” was no exception, and even had balloons! Enjoy these candid photos as we wrap up 1975, and head on over to 1978 next week! Special Thanks to Dave…

Unpublished “Fickle Nickel” and Audience Photos from “World of Magic 1”

Through the kindness of Bill Goodwin, head librarian at “The Magic Castle,” I will be showcasing over the next few weeks more never before seen photos from Doug’s first four specials (1975-1978.)  Taken by Dave Collier, these photographs showcase different angles and perspectives that the viewers at home never saw that night.  Now for the serious…

Martin Short on “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee”

Just a quick heads up that if you’re craving a bit of Martin Short and Doug Henning, then look no further than the current season of Jerry Seinfeld’s”Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” on Netflix. The episode itself is focused on a day in LA with Martin Short. While I wholeheartedly suggest you watch the whole…

Doug Across America-Tour Clippings

In his career, Doug certainly got around. In between his immensely popular television specials, he kept up an almost constant touring schedule that included here, there, everywhere, and beyond. While we all know his famous stops on Broadway and the Pantages, the clippings shown below are a small sampling of Doug’s relentless travels through America!…

TV Time “World of Magic 1” Bubbles Cover and Article

What do you do when you have 60 million people about to watch you on live television? Play with bubbles of course.  As you can tell, this 1975 gem of a cover and article hails all the way from the original  “World of Magic” special. The cover is really one of those classic early Doug…

Doug Henning: In His Own Words (Part Three)

In this final part, Doug touches on Merlin, Veda Land, his retirement, and what brought him back to Los Angeles in the late 90s. While the interview itself ends on a high note with Doug proclaiming “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet,” sadly this was not to be. Doug passed away a short four months after this…

Doug Henning- In His Own Words (Part Two)

Sorry for the delay in part two. As you will see, Doug goes into great detail about his earlier years in college, meeting Ivan Reitman, training with Dai Vernon, and Spellbound. It’s all exciting stuff, and straight from the horse’s mouth (so to speak). So, without further ado patient readers, is Part Two of “In…

Doug Henning- In His Own Words (Part One)

For the rest of this week I’ll be reprinting Magic Magazine’s now legendary interview with Doug from October, 1999. Conducted by magician David Charvet, this lengthy interview would sadly turn out to be Doug’s last as he would pass away from cancer four months later. For those interested, the circumstances as to how this interview came…