Tony Slydini (September 1, 1901,
Foggia,
Italy – January 15, 1991), simply known as 'Slydini', was a world-renowned
magician. His mastery, expertise, originality and innovative approach to
close-up artistry, magic earned him a legendary reputation in the magic world. He traveled the world performing for the public as well as performing and lecturing fellow magicians. As a result, he served as an inspiration to generations of well-known magicians, celebrities and entertainers, including
Doug Henning,
Dick Cavett,
Bill Bixby,
Ricky Jay,
David Copperfield and countless others. Although he was best known as a master of
close-up artistry, he continually demonstrated an extraordinary performing ability and during his lifetime was responsible for a long series of books, films and publications highlighting his mastery of the magical crafts. For his work, he received the highest honors that his profession could bestow, including both the coveted
Masters Fellowship Award and
Performing Fellowship Award from the
Academy of Magical Arts. During his lifetime, Tony Slydini was inducted into the
Society of American Magicians Hall of Fame as a
Living Legend.