World Series Champions Invite Michael Grandinetti To Bring Magic To Citizens Bank Park

April 10, 2009 - PRLog -- World Series champions, The Philadelphia Phillies, and world-class illusionist Michael Grandinetti are teaming up to create an unforgettable day of magic.  On Sunday, April 19th, 45,000 spectators will be pulled into a world of wonder as Michael opens the afternoon game with original, large-scale visual illusions.  The performance will culminate with an unprecedented attempt to read the minds of each and every person in the stadium at the exact same time.

This special performance is taking place to celebrate the birthday of the Phillies mascot, The Phanatic.  Since his debut in 1978, the Phanatic has entertained millions of fans all over the world.  He has traveled to Japan, Australia, Mexico, Canada, Venezuela and Puerto Rico.  An ESPN Sports Center fixture, the Phanatic has also starred in that network's as well as Fox Network commercials.  USA Today has declared the Phanatic "the best mascot in the business".

For this event, Michael designed several brand new illusions, all revolving around the famous mascot.  In addition to making the 7ft, 300lb mascot appear out of thin air, Michael will levitate 10ft into the air in the center of the field, create a stunning illusion with the game ball, and cause the Phanatic's birthday cake to materialize on an empty platform.  Michael will also give the Phanatic an entertaining magic lesson and then allow him to try out his new skills for the crowd.  Each illusion will take place at a different location on the field in front of one of the largest live audiences in history for a magic show who will be watching the action from all angles.

Later in the game, Michael and The Phanatic will take the field and invite all 45,000 spectators to participate in an interactive illusion involving their favorite Phillies players - allowing them to experience the magic on a very personal level.

Michael Grandinetti has appeared on countless stages and television programs including Entertainment Tonight, Fox & Friends, New York Today, Crook & Chase, The Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, and NBC's "The World's Most Dangerous Magic".  He has traveled nationally, creating custom illusions for Fortune 500 companies and major corporations including Bayer, JDA Software, Grainger, The American Marketing Association, Hewlett Packard, and Harley-Davidson.  He has performed at such noteworthy places as Heinz Hall, Grand Central Station, and The Kodak Theater in Hollywood.  He was also recently interviewed for the book "Variety Acts: Gaining Respect" along with six other noted illusionists, including famed Las Vegas performer Lance Burton.  Last year, Michael was invited to entertain the guests at the White House Easter Celebration.

Michael is also very accomplished behind the scenes.  As a respected Creative Consultant for film, television, literary, and stage productions, Michael's original magic designs have been featured in theatrical productions around the world including the "Magic & Beyond" show in Branson MO and the television series "Paolo Limiti" in Italy.  Last year, Michael was approached to contribute a design for the Hans Klok & Pamela Anderson show at the Aladdin Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.  Michael has also taught magic to the actors on the CBS Daytime Drama "The Bold and the Beautiful" and consulted on a national commercial featuring sleight of hand for the United States Treasury.

April 19th at Citizens Bank Park will be an unforgettable day filled with fun, surprises, and the magic of Michael Grandinetti.