Houdini and Copperfield FAQ

Thank you for your interest! We’ll continue to check in with reminders and updates in the coming days leading up to the big event. Be sure to sign up for our email list to receive updates. In the meantime, here are some answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

When is it?

Saturday, December 12 at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT

What will the program be like? How long is it?

The event will be about an hour. There are private 30-minute pre-shows for sponsors at certain levels. We’ll hear from David Copperfield on the meaning of this honor to him along with a little insight into the history of Jews and magic, and enjoy the deadpan humor of prolific TV actor and comedian, Brad Garrett. We’ll also have the honor of hearing from Harry Houdini’s great nephews. And, of course, illusions will happen before your very eyes with performances from David Copperfield and two talented performers, Lucy Darling and Asi Wind. Details about the program can be found on our website and will continue to be updated.

How do I watch it?

Event technology is designed to meet you where you are:

  • NMAJH RECOMMENDATION: Looking for the easiest way to access the event and rewards and links to make a gift simultaneously? Want to watch the donation thermometer climb in real time?  Use our main special event site, Tiltify!
  • Prefer Facebook? Facebook Live offers a similar experience and you can click over to Tiltify during the event to access special offers or make a gift. We’ll provide the links in Comments.
  • Prefer watching on your Smart TV? YouTube is your best option and you can use another device to go to Tiltify and access special offers or make a gift. We’ll provide links in your pre-event instructions.
  • Prefer an experience that focuses on the program and excludes chats or other activity on the page you’re viewing? View the event on our website and click through to the Tiltify page to access special offers or make a gift. We’ll make the links available on the same page on the Museum’s website.

Note: the program and video quality are the same on each platform. We’ll share reminders and additional instructions in the coming days. We’ll keep posting details to our website as well.

If you are planning to view on Facebook, we would encourage you to RSVP to the Facebook event so you receive event notifications and reminders.

The Museum’s website is the central address for all event details and is updated regularly: NMAJH.org/Houdini-and-Copperfield. Also, for those choosing to watch the event on our website, it’s where the livestream itself will be embedded that evening.

How do I register and get tickets?

This family-friendly event is open to everyone! No registration needed—just tune in. We know it seems strange but you do not need to register to participate in this event. There are unlimited spots and many ways to watch it.

We’re going to keep emailing you with reminders and updates as we get closer to the event. For those of you observing the Sabbath who won’t be checking email on Saturday, be sure to set a reminder before sundown on Friday so you don’t forget Saturday night!

How does this event make money?

You may have heard that in this year of firsts, this event is taking the place of our two annual galas. That is true! It is a hybrid fundraiser and public program. Which means it’s open to the public and there is no cost to participate but we are also soliciting sponsorships, as well as donations from the public in any amount.

There will be easy ways to donate during the event if you’re so inclined—even just a few dollars. There will also be telethon style incentives where additional special bonuses will be “unlocked” if enough donations are reached—such as an additional magic trick. Or, consider donating now! Every dollar helps.

We also have a pretty great lineup of “buy now” rewards available for purchase now that will remain available throughout the event until they sell out. Take a look! (Click the blue “rewards” bar with the star at the top of the event page to purchase rewards now. Quantities are limited!)

I’m interested in sponsorship opportunities, what do I do?

If you’re interested in exclusive extras such as a magic box, cocktails and dessert packages delivered to your home, private breakout rooms so you can watch together virtually with the group of your choosing, and more, we’ve conjured up some special packages beginning at just $250. Click here for the full list of packages and sponsorship opportunities. *The deadline for sponsorship to take full advantage of benefits–such as having your magic box delivered in time for the event–is December 8*

Sponsorship inquiries or questions?

nmajh-gala@nmajh.org

Updated 12/8/20

Congress Considers Adding The Weitzman to the Smithsonian

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History could become part of the Smithsonian

Nine Senate and House lawmakers announced on Wednesday, March 20 that they’re taking the first steps toward championing an effort to establish a Smithsonian museum dedicated to exploring and interpreting the American Jewish experience.

Learn more
The Weitzman