“Anita Morris” Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division “Annie McGreevey ” Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division “David Ogden Stiers and Co.”…
The Co-Stars of “The Magic Show:” Part 2
“Anita Morris” Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division “David Ogden Stiers” Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division “David Ogden Stiers” Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division “Dale Soules” Copyright: New York Public Library’s Billy Rose Theater Division These photos are copyrighted by the New York Public…
The Co-Stars of “The Magic Show”
Over the last five and a half years, I have posted a lot of photos of Doug in “The Magic Show.” Probably in the hundreds, and that’s understandable. It was Doug’s show after all! However, I wanted to give the co-stars of the production a just due. A few years back, I posted some of…
1980 Osmond Family Christmas Appearance
The above clip comes from Doug’s appearance one the 1980 Osmond Family Christmas special. I had posted the full special in 2019. However, as we enter the first weekend in December, I wanted to just show the full seven minute clip of Doug performing with the kids. As expected, it’s fun, joyous, Christmasy, and pure…
Telescope 1972-Doug on Himself/Sponge Ball Illusion
Originally Broadcast: November 23, 1972 Special Thanks to Stuart MacLeod at: stuartmac.com
Doug as Playing Card Joker
I just wanted to wish a quick Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. May it be filled magic, wonder, friends, and family. In light of today’s celebratory mood, I thought it was more than appropriate to post this bit of art I found online. Somehow, seeing Doug as the Joker on a playing card seems more than…
John Kippen Blog: Doug Henning Entry
Magician and motivational speaker, John Kippen, has a unique story about a month he spent with Doug on his blog. It’s a nice window into how Doug would mentor young magicians, and his overall generosity with his knowledge. It’s a quick read, but very worth your time. For more, please click HERE.
Doug and Monk Watson Photos
The above photos are of Doug (obviously) and Monk Watson. For those that may not know, Watson was a jack of all trades when it came to entertainment. From being a vaudeville performer, acrobat, emcee, musician, radio personality, and a magician (of course), he did it all. I don’t have any background information on these…
Doug Henning Torture Cell Playing Cards
If you go on eBay and look around for Doug items, it’s generally a lot of the same stuff. Things like old programs, the usual publicity photos, and ticket stubs are plentiful. But, every now and then something elegant peeks through. These independently produced card decks are no exception, as they are an elegant reproduction…
10 More Minutes of Dai Vernon and Doug on Dick Cavett (Revisited)
If 21 minutes of Doug on Dick Cavett wasn’t enough for you, how about 10 minutes more? In it, Doug and Dick introduce a performance and chat with the legendary Dai Vernon. All of this culminates with Dai demonstrating the famous Cups and Balls. I’d be more descriptive. But, why would I do that when…
Doug on the Dick Cavett Show (Revisited)
A couple years ago, a 21 minute vintage clip of Doug on the Dick Cavett show surfaced on You Tube, and in a blink and you’ll miss it moment, it was promptly taken down. Well, thankfully it will permanently be on the site this time. Included here, is my original post from May 8, 2020:…
A Unique Autograph
The above program cover recently was sent to me by Bob MacNair of Collingwood, Ontario. A childhood friend of Doug’s, he had a quick story remembrance to go along with it. Take it away Bob… “I was a good friend of Doug’s during our High School years in Oakville, Ontario, and (later) during our university…
Max Maven (1950-2022)
Word came early yesterday that the great mentalist Max Maven passed away at the all too young age of 71. Maven, a legend in magic, meant many things for many people within the community. He was an artist, mentor, friend, historian, writer, and above all, a consummate performer. One that broke down what came before…
World of Magic ’81-Floating Candle with Marie Osmond
In this clip from “World of Magic ’81,” Doug and Marie Osmond present a variation on the “Floating Ball” illusion last seen in “World of Magic ’76.” Only this time, it’s with a candle. Oh, and a rather, um, unique and trippy song courtesy of Ms. Osmond herself… Original Air Date: 2/15/1981
Magic Collector’s Corner Halloween Special Tonight!
As we head into Halloween tomorrow, what better time to join David Sandy and Lance Rich for another installment of their excellent “Magic Collectors’ Corner” Zoom events? Tonight’s installment will be taking place live from Harry Houdini’s actual house in New York City. Last year, I had the pleasure of touring the house, and I…
World of Magic ’81-Shields and Yarnell Levitation Appearance in Full
In continuing this week’s two-day festival of 1970s/80s guest appearances, I give you “World of Magic ’81” with Shields and Yarnell. It’s not often these days that mimes get featured on TV as much as this pair did. But, the 1970s and 80s were a unique time on television, and Robert Shields and Lorene Yarnell…
World of Magic ’76- Joey Heatherton Intro Appearance in Full
Original Air Date: 12/23/1976
“World of Magic: 1975 and 1977” For Sale on DVD
For all those that may not have some of the “World of Magic” specials you’re in luck. Thomas Film Classics is offering the ’75 and ’77 specials to purchase on DVD. I can vouch for the fact that these dubs look pretty, pretty, good with all things considering. The 1975 special is the best looking…
Houdini’s Pocket Jack Knife Re-Discovered
The above photo was sent to me this week by Brian Lumley. As you probably already know, Brian was one of Doug’s primary assistants in the early years, and today is a treasure trove of Henning knowledge of that time. Brian mentioned to me that he is moving, and recently unearthed this treasure that had…
“World of Magic 77”- Sandy Duncan Circus Sequence in Full
Today’s extended clip comes from “World of Magic’ 77,” and is lengthy. In fact, I wrestled with whether to show the whole thing as one, or break it up into separate clips. However, in re-watching the intricate nature of the whole sequence, I decided it would be a real disservice to it to show it…
I.B.M. Ring #26- 1975 “Magic of Manhattan” Program
The following 1975 program was sent to me from Glen Henry, and showcases an evening of magic from I.B.M #26 out of New York that culminated with an award givento Doug for his contribution to magic. It’s slickly designed cover, and an impressive roster of magicians to boot. If that weren’t good enough, Doug even…
One Ahead Article-Why Should Magicians Know About Glenn Priest?
I just wanted to let you all know about a very good article that was published October 4th on the “One Ahead” blog. Profiling Doug’s right hand man Glenn Priest, the article takes an in depth look at Glenn’s life and career. Writer Chris Pilsworth does an excellent job fleshing out this enigmatic figure who…
Doug TV Rehearsal Space Photo-1976
Hey Everyone! My apologies for the unexpected two- week break. Life, a new baby, and work got the better of things…as they can do. But, I’m rested, relaxed, and ready to give you the best in all things Henning. For starters, Brian Lumley recently provided me with this truly great candid photo. Taken during rehearsals…