It is magic at Hall of Science

Levitate, read your friend’s mind or even lose your head at the New York Hall of Science’s interactive magic exhibit called The Science of Illusion.
The exhibit, which opened on June 28 and will run through September 14, has an array of great magical displays including original contributions from world-renowned magicians Penn and Teller, Goldfinger and Dove, Max Maven and Jade.
The winner and the finalists of the Master Magician of the New York Hall of Science Video Contest were revealed. Fans of the Hall were invited to create a video of them performing their favorite magic trick to illustrate the connection between science and magic.
With close to 30 submissions of tricks, and over 15,000 voters on YouTube, the final four and the winner were announced. Christopher Yang, 4, from Manhattan, with his “Magic Balloon” trick, was the winner by popular vote.
Eddie Yang, Christopher’s father said, “This is fantastic for Chris and it’s great because we are proud members of the Hall of Science.”
The Great Hall, which at one time was used to hold the World’s Fair, was the venue for this magical exhibit. The blue glass on the windows, a gift from France, reflected all throughout the room and gave the exhibit a dark and mysterious feel.
The most popular display of the day was Penn and Teller’s “See the Amazing Living Head.” This illusion gave young magicians a chance to literally lose their head, and shock their friends and parents.
This exhibit, which was developed by the California Science Center, had plenty of exciting magic displays for the kids.
“The magic exhibit we have going right now is a little different than anything we’ve ever had,” said Marilyn Hoyt, President and CEO of the Hall. “It is quite unusual that the kids get to be a passive audience, a magician and get a great learning experience at the same time.”
The Hall expects over 200,000 kids to visit this summer. While this was just a preview of the exhibit, it still had the feel of a full-fledged magic show.
For more information on the magic exhibit or anything else regarding the Hall of Science, call 718.699.0005.