Spellbound by Magic Castle – Princess Cruises – Star Princess
Submitted by: Brian Paiva
Lead Designer: Alex Calle
Studio: hiddenlemons
Outfitter: Navali Interiors
Shipyard: Fincantieri SpA
Completion Date: 04/10/2025
Spellbound is the first collaboration between Princess and the Magic Castle. Admission to the original Magic Castle is reserved for member magicians and their invited guests only, making it one of the world’s most exclusive and sought-after destinations.
Building on the legacy of the Magic Castle, Spellbound extends its world beyond the walls of the Hollywood clubhouse to another place and time, inviting guests into an original magical world inspired by its history, traditions, and spirit. Spellbound is the only place in the world where guests can experience the Magic Castle beyond its original Hollywood home.
Entry requires discovering a secret door, immediately establishing the exclusivity that defines the Magic Castle. Guests then enter the Box Office, where they meet the spirit of Swan Walker, wife & assistant to The Great Cardini, who materializes in the ticket booth. After a brief introduction of Spellbound, guests say the magic words “Open Sesame”. The marquee lights flicker, Swan disappears, and the entire ticket booth slides aside revealing the secret entrance into Spellbound.
Once through the hidden entrance, guests are encouraged to explore the Inner Circle with Iris, the resident ghost; the Cardini Bar with the skillful dexterity of a close-up magician; the Backstage where props come to life; the Vestibule where shadows of past performers dance across the brick wall; and the Peacock Theater, where Magic Castle magicians astound and amaze.
The 3,000 sq. ft. venue features over 30 interactive encounters, hidden surprises, and more than 1,000 pieces of art, artifacts, and magic memorabilia. Every piece has a unique story or connection to the Magic Castle. Guests can spend hours exploring the venue discovering many magical surprises.
Spellbound’s design blends the Magic Castle’s eclectic visual heritage with a distinctly cinematic sensibility. This fusion of architectural styles creates a timeless, mysterious world that transports guests into a hidden magical society that is both elegant & immersive.
Technology is carefully integrated into the thematic scenery and props, allowing guests to experience wonder without ever knowing the technology behind the magic.
By remaining true to the rich history & traditions of the Magic Castle while creating an original entertainment experience at sea, Spellbound gives guests onboard the Star Princess the rare opportunity to experience a world that most would never otherwise have the chance to enter.
