Harry Kellar

Harry Kellar was the dean of American magicians during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Following the path of the grand touring showmen, Kellar brought magic to the theater-going public with a mix of elaborate stage illusions and his signature wit. He was known for his mastery of the 'Levitation' illusion, which he performed to stunned audiences across the country. Kellar was a consummate professional, an early champion of the theatrical style that would eventually lead to the golden age of stage illusion. He understood the importance of creating a grand spectacle, utilizing ornate lighting, music, and staging to elevate the experience of his shows. His career paved the way for later magicians like Howard Thurston, to whom he eventually passed his show and his mantle. Kellar’s legacy is that of the quintessential American stage magician: ambitious, charismatic, and committed to pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved on a theater stage, creating a lasting public interest in the art of magic.