Lions and tigers will take the stage at Playhouse in the Park in August, marking the first time annual magic benefit Abracadabra has featured big cats.

        The animals, including a 600-pound Bengal tiger, are part of headline act the Majestix, who hold the World Magic Award for best illusionist.

        Abracadabra,playing Aug. 16-19, will feature two comedic magicians, Eric Buss and master of ceremonies Chris Mitchell, who is keeping mum about his routine. Mr. Buss, a veteran of television's Masters of Illusion, starts his act where other performances end. He ponders the question, what does the magician do after the curtain comes down and he goes home after a hard night in the spotlight?

        Norm Nielsen, who performed in the first Abracadabra in 1991, returns with his Musical Magic routine that includes a flute that disintegrates as he plays it and coins that drop onto a vertical xylophone and play a melody.

        Expanded AbraKIDabra magic workshops are scheduled for 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Aug. 11. Youngsters ages 6-12 will learn and perform magic, then enjoy a show by local magicians.

        An advanced workshop at 3 p.m. will focus on ropes, cards and palming techniques. Tickets $15, an adult must accompany all children.

        The annual Abracadabra benefit is scheduled for Aug. 17 and includes a pre-show reception and post-performance dinner. Tickets $100-$250 can be reserved by calling (513) 345-2242.

        A new 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16 preview performance targets young professionals. Family performances are 2 and 7 p.m. Aug. 18-19. Tickets range $34-$42. All seats are $15 for children 12 and under.

        The Aug. 18 matinee will be preceded by a “magic” lunch. Tickets $20.

        Reservations for all performances (except the gala), the magic lunch and AbraKIDabra workshops can be made by calling the Playhouse box office at (513) 421-3888 or (800) 582-3208.

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