World famous escape artist Dean Gunnarson visited Giroux Sunday for the official opening of Philip's Magical Paradise, a museum of magic dedicated to the memory of a 15-year-old cancer victim who died in 1986.
Gunnarson told the crowd of 250 attending Sunday's opening and dedication that no one in the world had inspired him more than his friend Philip Hornan.
He had always collected "magic junk" Gunnarson said, but "if you don't share your special interest with someone, you lose it."
Philip's dream was to create a special place to share the joy of magic with others and he would be excited to see this magnificent structure, Gunnarson, a Winnipegger, said.
Gordon and Marilyn Hornan transformed Philip's request for a special "room" into a magic museum with the renovation of the aging United Church building near their home in Giroux.
Canada's most famous magicians and illusionists have contributed artifacts for display and members of the International Brotherhood of Magicians were on hand Sunday to officially open the museum.
IBM first president Len Vintus told the crowd that of the five magic superstars in the world, two were from Manitoba and there were more on the way.
"Magic is a wonderful hobby to challenge the mind, sharpen the wit and stimulate the imagination."
In dedicating the former church building to the memory of Philip, United Church minister Rev Doug Flint said the restoration of the building was more than a fulfillment of a young boy's dream.
"Philip knew the way to defeat pain was to laugh and have joy and lift yourself above it. This restored church building serves to awaken that boy's spirit in us all.
Philip's Magical Paradise is a three-year labor of love by the Hornan's to keep the magic which encouraged, sustained and captivated their son during the last years of his life.
The museum, easily identified as the only castle in Giroux, puts together the magic and
illusions collected by Philip who asked his parents to set aside his magic in a special
room for all to enjoy.
The 85-year-old former Giroux United Church just off Provincial Road 311 houses not only Philip's collection but a collection of items donated by magicians from around the world.
A special part of the museum has a display of items donated by Gunnarson, who has just returned from performances in Japan. Philip's lifelong interest in magic became a passion when he saw the escape artist perform in hospital.
Gunnarson befriended Philip, teaching him magic tricks and performing at charity fund-raisers with him.
The Hornans completely refurbished the old church building, restoring its embossed tin wall paneling and hardwood floor. They redesigned it in the form of a castle complete with turrets and cast-iron gates because "Philip loved castles."
The museum is open to the public free of charge with any donations going to children's charities.
The museum of magic and illusion is open evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Special tours may be arranged by appointment by calling 204-326-1219.