HOLLYWOOD BEAT: Magical Events on the Hollywood Beat

Jason Alexander was the genial host of the Annual Academy of Magical Arts Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. The former Seinfeld star was taken by surprise when he was named Parlour, Magician of the Year. And why not? We understand there was standing room only for his sell-out performances as a mentalist and magician at the Magic Castle. Other celebs who have displayed their talents at the landmark nightclub, include the late Johnny Carson, and Steve Martin, who was in the star-studded audience, along with Siegfried (minus his partner, Roy) who was recuperating in Las Vegas.

Jason Alexander, Host of Magical Arts Awards

In a lavish show produced by Dale R. Hindman, we were treated to performances by illusionist Shimshi, comedy standup sorcery from Chris Kenner, and ultimate cabaret magician Paul Potassy, to name a few. Carl Ballantine, former cast member of McHale's Navy, received the Lifetime Achievement Award; and Cyril Takayama, billed as Magic's first Cyber-Celebrity, was named Magician of the Year.

Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and Nichelle Nichols

Among the celeb presenters, we particularly enjoyed the repartee between Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and Star Trek's Nicelle Nichols. They could be the next Burns & Allen. Former Lt. Uhura proved she still naughty, but nice, and provided additional magic to the evening.

Steve Martin, Gay Blackstone & Siegfried

A bevy of beautiful hostesses invited us to Beverly Cohen's Birthday Bash at Pane Vino restaurant in West Hollywood. Among these were Liz Flynt (Larry's adorable wife), Life Insurance broker/agent, Stephanie Hibbler, Anesthetist Darlene Friedman, Brentwood's Grace Scherrer, and adorable Annie Lehrer. Beverly, is anxiously awaiting the completion of her manse in Newport (former home of John Wayne) but not to worry. She is very comfortable in the Four Seasons Hotel, which, of course, she owns!

Tyler Neitzel (Young King Leonidas) in the hit film, 300

Some of the long time friends sharing Beverly's natal day included feminist attorney, Gloria Allred, designer Ricco Antonio, who owns boutiques in Beverly Hills and La Jolla, Suzan Brassfield former model and now owner of a winery in Clear Lake, California, Shelly (Mrs. Donald Sterling), and Mr. Blackwell who has been dressing Beverly since she got out of diapers!

Beverly Cohen, Couture Designer, Ricco Antonio, Susan Brassfield

Had the pleasure of interviewing young actor Tyler Neitzel for my new TV show, Hollywood Marci. The 15 year old actor, currently starring as young King Leonidas in the Warner Bros. Box office smash - 300, told me that he got the part when he went with his brother Blake for an audition. While in the casting director's office, he asked if he could read for the role. She scolded him and said you need to be submitted by your agent and dismissed him. However, he was about to go out the door, when she called him back and said, "you have a good look, come back and read." Needless to say, he got the part in the block buster flick. Shows that even at a young age, determination and drive can lead to success on the Hollywood Beat.