Bernie Shine

A distinctive figure in the world of conjuring, Bernie Shine’s career was prominently recognized in 1972 when a caricature of him, commissioned by Hollywood’s Magic Castle and drawn by Ted Salter, was displayed at the famed institution for 47 years and later featured in the 1988 book ‘The Magic Castle Walls of Fame.’ Early in his career, Shine established himself as a favorite performer in the Magic Castle’s Close-Up Room throughout the 1970s, honing his craft under the mentorship of legendary figures such as Dai Vernon, Francis Carlyle, and Senator Clark Crandall. He distinguished himself through original effects and a unique fusion of close-up magic and mentalism, also performing for convention groups at the Frontier Hotel in Las Vegas during this period. Shine’s artistry extended internationally with a performance in Paris in 1993. His stage presence continued to captivate audiences, notably at the UnCabaret in downtown Los Angeles in 2013, where he executed a groundbreaking effect by linking and unlinking three audience members’ rings in front of an audience that included celebrities like Tippi Hedren, Loni Anderson, and Richard Chamberlain.

Towards the end of 2019, on December 7 and 8, Shine was the sole magician to perform alongside prominent comedians such as Seth Green and Bill Burr at Jeff Ross’s Special Holiday Event in Studio City, California, showcasing his unique ability to command a stage alongside diverse talent. Bernie Shine continues to perform, maintaining a distinct approach to his craft by favoring quietly chosen venues and delivering intimate, inexplicable performances. This philosophy allows him to create bespoke magical experiences, moving beyond typical promotional platforms to provide unparalleled, direct engagement. His ongoing commitment to original magic and personal connection solidifies his standing as a revered artist in the conjuring community.