The Lotte New York Palace is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Manhattan, known for its grand architecture and impeccable service. One of the most iconic features of the hotel is the famous "Magic Shot" photo opportunity. The Magic Shot is an enchanting experience where guests can have their photo taken in front of a stunning backdrop created by the hotel's talented team. The backdrop is meticulously designed to capture the essence of New York City, with breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. The Magic Shot is not your typical photo opportunity. It is an immersive experience that transports guests into a whimsical world of elegance and charm.
Our most regal retreats, The Royal Suite Collection features unique and luxurious offerings like no other.
What I ve found is that people come back, and they realize that it s different each time and there s interaction that changes, Cohen says about his show. Then when I was a boy, I was born in 1971, my uncle used to show me the tricks that he had learned over the years that he used to carry in his pockets.
It is an immersive experience that transports guests into a whimsical world of elegance and charm. The hotel's expert photographers utilize lighting techniques and creative angles to make the photo truly magical. The result is a stunning keepsake that captures the beauty and glamour of both the guests and the hotel.
Famed Magician to the Stars, Steve Cohen, on Enchanting Celebrities and Being Born Into the Business
Nigel Smith is the Senior Movies News Editor for PEOPLE. He is an experienced culture editor and writer with a 12-year history of working in the online and print industries.
Published on May 11, 2022 01:52PM EDT Photo: Nico MorenoLive magic is very much alive in New York City!
Magician and renown showman Steve Cohen is an enchanting fixture at the famed Lotte New York Palace hotel, entertaining audiences in one of the venue's intimate and elegant salons with a dazzling live show, titled Chamber Magic.
The show, performed weekly, features everything you'd want from over an hour of live magic, including conjuring, mind-reading, sleight of hand, and some special tricks Cohen has up his sleeve. The evening transports audiences to the type of parlor entertainment popularized in Manhattan's early 20th century.
Below, Cohen talks to PEOPLE about what attracts celebrities to hit hot-ticket show, how he got into the world of magic, and what returning fans can expect.
You might find a celebrity in his audience
Cohen says he was "was thrilled to see Stephen Sondheim in the audience" before the Broadway legend died. "He sat in the front row, and it was just a really exciting thrill," Cohen recalls. "And then he kept sending in all his theater friends to see the show. John Williams, the composer of the Star Wars music. He came to the show twice. Guillermo del Toro, the film director. He came to the show three times and then introduced me to Bradley Cooper and then I acted in two scenes with Bradley Cooper in the latest film Nightmare Alley. Tracy Morgan bought out the entire front row of the show at the Palace and he brought in his whole family. And during the show he was very vocal. He was throwing his hands up in the air, punching the air, yelling out stuff such as, 'This guy is better than Houdini.'"
Kerry HayesHe comes from a family of magicians
"My great uncle, my father's uncle, was an amateur magician," Cohen shares. "He was born in 1901 and when he was a boy, he had seen all the close-up magicians in New York City, and he thought this is a great hobby. He took it on as a hobby. Then when I was a boy, I was born in 1971, my uncle used to show me the tricks that he had learned over the years that he used to carry in his pockets. And something just sparked in my mind, this is my life's work. And of course, my parents wanted me to become a physician, I became a magician."
Courtesy of Steve CohenFate brought him to the Palace Hotel
After living and performing in Tokyo for five years, Cohen moved back to New York to continue his career as a magician. "I was really a starving artist in the beginning," he remembers. "And my wife and I were walking one day up Madison Avenue, and this sounds like a fairytale, but it's a 100% true. And we stopped in front of the Palace Hotel. It was Christmas season, so they were giving out free Christmas cookies in that courtyard area that was closed off when you came. But it's usually open when the construction isn't going on. They have a big courtyard where they were giving out Christmas cookies, apple cider, and hot chocolate. And I walked into that courtyard area, and I looked around this beautiful mansion and I said, 'One day, I'm going to do my show here.' And sure enough, 20 years later, I ended up doing my show there. And at the Palace I've been there for now for five years. I was at the Waldorf Astoria for 17 years before that."
Courtesy of Steve CohenHe loves the intimacy of a smaller show
While Cohen has performed at venues as large and esteemed as New York City's legendary Carnegie Hall, he's especially fond of smaller stages where he can develop a bond with the audience. "I've always thought that it's important for the magician and the audience to be able to see each other's eyes," he shares. "And when you're performing on a big stage, especially when there's stage lighting, the magician really can't see the audience's eyes at all, because they're shrouded in shadows. So, part of the draw of a close-up magic show is everyone gets a chance to really feel a personal connection with the performer. When I'm on stage and I'm just a few feet away from you, it's not even on stage anymore. It's more like you're in my living room."
Nico MorenoHis show is ever evolving
"What I've found is that people come back, and they realize that it's different each time and there's interaction that changes," Cohen says about his show. "It's like an improv comedy show that way. People have said, 'Oh, I never see things twice, but I'll come back and see this a second and third time.' One of the other nice things is, because it's been running now for 22 years in New York, which is means over 6,000 live performances, that I have people who have come back who have maybe seen the show when they were a teenager. And then 20 years later, they came back in their 30s. And that's pretty rewarding to me. One woman said to me, 'I've been thinking about this show my whole life and I wanted to come back again as an adult.'"
Below, Cohen talks to PEOPLE about what attracts celebrities to hit hot-ticket show, how he got into the world of magic, and what returning fans can expect.
The Lotte New York Palace takes great pride in offering this unique experience to their guests. Whether you are visiting for a special occasion, such as a wedding or anniversary, or simply want to capture a memorable moment during your stay, the Magic Shot is a must-do activity. The hotel understands the importance of creating lasting memories and goes above and beyond to ensure each guest's photo is perfect. From helping with wardrobe selection to suggesting poses, the team at Lotte New York Palace is dedicated to making your Magic Shot experience truly unforgettable. In addition to the Magic Shot, the hotel offers a range of other amenities and activities to enhance your stay. From world-class dining options to luxurious spa treatments, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its prime location and unparalleled service, Lotte New York Palace continues to be a top choice for discerning travelers looking for a memorable and magical experience in the heart of New York City. Whether you are a guest at the hotel or simply passing by, don't miss the opportunity to capture a bit of the magic at Lotte New York Palace. The Magic Shot is a beautiful way to commemorate your time in one of the world's most iconic cities and create a lasting memory that you will cherish for years to come..
Reviews for "The Must-Have Shot: Lotte New York Palace's Magic Shot"
1. John Smith - 2 stars: I was really excited to try the Lotte New York Palace Magic Shot after hearing all the hype, but I was ultimately disappointed. The taste was underwhelming and nothing special. The presentation was also lackluster, and I expected more for the price I paid. Overall, I don't think it lived up to the high expectations, and I wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. Emily Johnson - 1 star: I had the Lotte New York Palace Magic Shot and it was a complete letdown. The drink lacked any unique flavors and was just overly sweet. The small portion size made it feel like a rip-off, especially considering the high price. The service was also quite slow and the staff seemed disinterested. I definitely won't be going back.
3. David Thompson - 2 stars: I tried the Lotte New York Palace Magic Shot and it didn't impress me at all. The drink was too sugary and overpowering, and it left an unpleasant aftertaste. The presentation was also nothing special, and I expected a more extravagant experience for the price. Overall, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable drink.