About Us Events Whats New Shop Online Forum Map Map

in France. After a sensational three
year engagement, they joined other similar
spectacular shows in Madrid, San Juan.
and finally, Las Vegas. Advancing from
one prestigious showroom to another, Siegfried
and Roy continued to climb the career
ladder. Finally, they arrived in their
own "Beyond Belief" currently playing
to sellout crowds twice a night at the
Frontier Hotel and Casino.
About using animals in magic, Roy comments, "You can't treat live animals like props. They have to want to perform for you. We never try to change the natural instincts of any animal. They are all different, and each one is best suited for a certain illusion. Siegfried and I build the various elements around their natural personalities and inclinations."
One of the many highlights of their extra­vaganza is the presentation of two of the rarest finds in the animal kingdom: Neva and Shosadee, two of only a dozen or so white tigers found in the world today. Siegfried and Roy sought these rare specimens for a special breeding program marking the beginning of the "Siegfried and Roy White Tigers". This will insure the animal's perpetuation for future generations to study, admire and enjoy. That's quite a nice trick from the "Superstars of Magic", Siegfried and Rnv. Until next issue...
A few months ago I wrote a column about the many Las Vegas magicians using animals in their acts. Obviously, the topic was well received because of the amount of mail that came to me. A few of the letters mentioned performers I had not seen and described their acts. But far and wide, everyone wanted to know more about the "Superstars of Magic", the incredible Siegfried and Roy. And rightly so, because their magical animal extravaganza is TOPS!
The most often asked question by magicians was "How much do they make a week?" Although, to my knowledge, actual figures have not been publicly disclosed, one Las Vegas publication gave them a yearly salary in excess of five million dollars! Yes, Five Million Dollars! That's a cool $96,153.85 a week! Plus numerous fringe benefits such as the most outrageous 'dressing room' on the Strip. It includes several bedrooms, a Jacuzzi, an elegant formal dining room and other lavish amenities.
"How did this pair get together?" That, as they say, is history. Both originated from Germany and met in 1960 when they were working on board the luxury liner, Bremen. Siegfried was doing a solo act; Roy was working as a steward. During one show Siegfried produced Roy's pet cheetah in lieu of the traditional rabbit. Audience reaction was extraordinary.
From that day on the fearless twosome joined forces and armed with a love of wildlife, began adding more and varied exotic animals to their act. Word spread quickly that these were not just your ordinary magicians. Offers began to come in from all over Europe.
Siegfried and Roy's next strategic move was to join the cast of the Lido de Paris