Shell Reinish

I grew up in New York, actually Brooklyn to be precise. 

I graduated from The College at Staten Island with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Sparks flew.

My interest in history has always been very eclectic, from technology to cinema, magic and beyond.  

While in the Army I got to visit several musuems, as well as many Civil War battle grounds. I could feel history surround me.

For many years I was a Docent in the “Vault” at The Petersen Automobile Museum where I explained the history of some of the rarest  and most expensive automobiles in the world. 

I have been a judge at the San Marino Concours d’ Elegance, in Pasadena, California for several years.  

My interest in Houdini started when I was ten years old and saw “HOUDINI” with Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh. 

I was totally blown away. I had heard his name many times, but did not know Houdini’s “story”. From then on I took every opportunity to learn all that I could about him. 

I was at the opening of the Houdini Magical Hall of Fame, Niagara Falls Canada where I was asked by Henry Muller, the Director of the Museum to give a few tours of his show case. A great honor and experience for me. 

For over 15 years I had a live call-in television show which included several guests from the Magic Castle – Steve Valentine and Sylvester The Jester, among many others.

I had the honor to be asked to join the Magic Castle by Membership Committee members Celest Mills and Len Reed, but I stupidly passed on that offer. Big Mistake.

I have met many magical people that knew and who had worked with Houdini – Walter Gibson, Sidney Radner and Larry Weeks. I was even more fortunate to study close-up magic at the hands of Tony Slydini, one of the greats. 

In 1976 I was in attendance at Houdini’s grave with the cast of The Magic Show with Doug Henning. 

In 2025, along with Larrian Gillespie MD, I created the Houdinarian Society and am now teaching the first course on Houdini at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Older couple wearing black t-shirts with vintage portraits; man wears a black hat, both smiling, in a restaurant setting.
The Houdinarian Society creators, Shell Reinish and Larrian Gillespie MD

Unlock the Magic of History with Shell Reinish: Hire the Ultimate Houdini Expert for Your Event!

Looking to captivate your audience with an unforgettable presentation? Shell Reinish, a lifelong Houdini enthusiast and co-creator of The Houdinarian Society, will take your attendees on a mesmerizing journey into the world of the legendary Harry Houdini with his spellbinding talk, “Let’s Go To The Show.”

Imagine being transported back to 1924, witnessing the electrifying performances that defined the world’s greatest magician. With decades of research and firsthand experiences, Shell brings Houdini’s legacy to life like no one else can.

Why Shell Reinish Will Leave Your Audience Spellbound:

  • A Lifetime of Passion: Shell’s fascination with Houdini began at age ten after seeing the iconic film HOUDINI starring Tony Curtis. Since then, he has dedicated his life to uncovering every detail about the magician’s extraordinary story.
  • Expert Credentials: As the creator of the first-ever university course on Houdini at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Shell is at the forefront of educating a new generation about this cultural icon.
  • Unparalleled Experience: From leading tours at the Houdini Magical Hall of Fame in Niagara Falls to meeting luminaries like Walter Gibson, Larry Weeks and private studies with Tony Slydini, Shell has unparalleled insight into Houdini’s life and influence.
  • Proven Speaker: With over 15 years hosting a live call-in television show featuring renowned guests from the Magic Castle, Shell knows how to engage and inspire an audience.

What Your Audience Will Experience:

  • A riveting deep dive into Houdini’s groundbreaking illusions and daring escapes.
  • Rare stories and insights from Shell’s personal experiences with Houdini experts and artifacts.
  • A firsthand look at why Houdini remains one of the most influential entertainers in history.

Don’t miss the chance to bring this one-of-a-kind presentation to your convention or event. Shell Reinish’s “Let’s Go To The Show” will leave your audience inspired, intrigued, and talking long after the curtain closes.

Book Shell Reinish today and let your event become part of Houdini’s enduring magic!

Video reel available upon request.