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Below is an official Press Release

Disneyland Resort to Introduce New Magic to Historic Shop

New operator Houdini will bring enhanced products and certified magicians to the Main Street Magic Shop

Anaheim, Calif. — October 5, 2009 — Disneyland Resort is pleased to announce that Houdini’s Magic Shop has been selected as the new operator of its iconic Main Street Magic Shop.

        “We are excited to welcome Houdini to Main Street U.S.A.,” said Jon Storbeck, vice president of Disneyland. “Houdini will further enhance the Guest experience by offering an expanded assortment of quality products as well as certified magicians to perform demonstrations.”

        Geno Munari, who founded Houdini’s Magic Shop in 1993, said, “I’ve had a passion for magic since I was a young boy. I am thrilled to be able to share my enthusiasm with Disney Guests from around the globe.” Munari has acquired the exclusive rights to many quality magic tricks. These brand name magic products have developed a loyal customer base among professional magicians as well as amateurs. The company currently operates a successful magic cart kiosk at Downtown Disney.

        The store, which will remain named Main Street Magic Shop, closed on October 4, for approximately one month, while Houdini refreshes the interior and stocks new merchandise. Approximately a dozen current Main Street Magic Shop Cast Members have been reassigned to other merchandise roles.

        Magic merchandise at Disneyland Resort was first offered at Merlin’s Magic Shop near Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in Fantasyland, when the park opened July 17, 1955. That location closed on January 16, 1983.  The Main Street Magic Shop opened in June 1957, taking the place of a Wonderland Music Company shop at the same location. Merv Taylor Co. operated the two magic shops until March 15, 1965, when Disneyland took over the operation. Actor Steve Martin was one of the early Cast Members in the Main Street Magic Shop.