First in Buda Castle, then in Houdini House.
Did you know that Harry Houdini, the most famous escapologist (Illusionist, magician, stunt performer, actor ect.) was of Hungarian origin?
He was born in Budapest in 1874 as Weisz Erik, and arrived in the USA when he was 4 years old. He changed his name to Houdini when he became a professional magician.
He was world famous for his sensational and nearly unbelievable escapes, including handcuffs, chains, underwater and many more.
After his death in 1926 several biographical films were made about him.
Now an exhibition in Budapest commemorates his stunts and eccentric life.
„These relics on display are mystical. They are not everyday objects, they are unique and made history” – says the curator David Merlini, the well-known Hungarian escape artist, who considers it as a kind of mission to preserve and show Houdini memorabilia to the public.
In Budapest the visitors can see his original shackles, handcuffs, his letter to the chairman of Society of American Magicians.
Here are some prompts from the 2014 Houdini film including the metamorphosis trunk and legendary milk can, which was one of his most famous escapes.
This private collection is now in Buda Castle (Building “F”, National Széchényi Library) between January 27 and February 27, 2016, later it will be moved to Houdini House, which is to open on 24 March, 2016.
Photo: Illyés Tibor (MTI)
