Presto! One Whole Year Of Koolau Tricks

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The Great Davidio, aka dentist David Brown, performs illusions like these with other magicians this weekend at Koolau Magic Theatre’s one-year anniversary. Photo from Dennis Brown.

A unique partnership between a dentist and his landlord is now a year old, and Koolau Magic Theatre plans a special anniversary showcase this weekend at Koolau Center to mark the occasion.

Dr. David Brown of Temple Valley Dental Group turns into The Great Davidio after hours, and his monthly magic shows with colleagues have been drawing a full house of fans in a vacant space next to his clinic in the shopping center (near Times). The room seats 50 people and is decked out with a stylish stage, curtain and lights.

“I’m using the space rent-free with the idea that I will bring people to the center,” explained Brown, a Kaneohe resident who performs there regularly with Harvey “Mr. O"Ouchi and special guests. “If they find someone to take over the space, then I must vacate. So far, I think it has worked well both ways.

“And since I’m right next door, I can go rehearse if a patient cancels.”

Carol Moore, publicist for the center, likes the arrangement, too. “We’re really happy with the magic shows, and all of the merchants seem supportive,” she said. “It’s nice for the community and good for the center. It’s a very professional show.

“It’s nice to have him as a dentist there, too.”

Management would like to see the show grow, Moore added, and they’ve been cross-promoting each other. “He’s only limited by how much he has time for,” she said, although the needs of a new tenant would take precedence.“For right now, we have room.”

Brown hopes the matinee succeeds, because he sees a need for more keiki entertainment in the community. “Sometimes we draw a big crowd for our pre-show balloon animals and up-close magic. But if the night show itself is sold, then they could come see the matinee the next day.”

The anniversary shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m. Saturday, featuring Mr. O, Aaron Vermeer, The Great Davidio and Argentinian magician the Great LATKO. Close-up magic and balloon twisting start 45 minutes prior to the main event.Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children 12 and under, with a $2 discount for advanced purchases at 239-6711 (the dental office).