Article by Mark Stitz:
I am deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of New York City Magician, Carl Melish, also known as “Polaris”.
by Mark StitzIn the late evening of November 4th, 2010, Carl succumbed to a heart attack, precipitated by his asthma just after leaving the restaurant Dewey’s Flatiron, where he gave what was to be his final performance. Carl was 54, and is survived by his wife Mariann.
Carl was a fixture on the New York City magic scene for over 30 years. As an early student of Jeff Sheridan and Tony Slydini, Carl first started doing street magic in New York, then touring throughout the United States and Canada. Later on in his career, after returning to New York, Carl began working in restaurants and nightclubs such as Webster Hall, and America, and while having the occasion to perform for former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of Defense Casper Weinberger, or tycoon Steve Forbes, his goal was, “As long as I made you smile”. And that he did!
Having an extremely quick wit, and an inimitable style along with amazing sleight of hand, it was an absolute joy to watch him perform, as he had an infectious laugh and truly enjoyed bringing wonder and delight to his audiences. He was an extremely warm, gentle and loving human being.
To know Carl, was to know joy, to know laughter, and to know magic. But today, the world will seem a little less magical without him. May you Rest In Peace, Dear Friend…