Press Release: Gerry Griffin, Founder of California Magic Club, Retires After 48 Years of Bay Area Magic
Beloved Bay Area Venue, Founded 21 Years Ago, Enters New Chapter as Local Magician John Gardenier Assumes Ownership on November 1
MARTINEZ, Calif. — October 2, 2025 — California Magic Club announced today that founder and owner Gerry Griffin will retire after more than four decades of bringing magic to the Bay Area — first through his magic shop, opened in 1977, and later as founder of California Magic Club, which has entertained audiences with dinner, drinks, and world-class performances since 2004.
The venue will continue without interruption as local magician and retired police officer John Gardenier assumes ownership effective November 1.
“Serving this community has been the honor of my life — we’ve shared nights of magic, mystery, and, most of all, kindness and service,” said Griffin. “I’m deeply grateful to the city of Martinez, our guests, magicians, and staff who together make California Magic Club a home, and excited to pass the deck to John, who shares our values and will carry the legacy forward.”
Gardenier, a longtime Bay Area performer, emphasized continuity with thoughtful growth.
“Gerry built something rare, an intimate theater where hospitality is the headliner,” said Gardenier. “We’ll keep that spirit while expanding show nights, enhancing production, and adding other services. Our promise is simple: the same warm welcome, with even more reasons to come back.”
What Guests Can Expect
No interruption to scheduled shows — existing reservations and gift certificates will be honored.
The club’s hallmark experience, Dinner • Drinks • Magic, continues in Martinez with the same audience-first hospitality.
Plans to add select weeknight performances, introduce special events and rentals, and broaden offerings for both families and magicians.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit calmagic.com. High-resolution photos, interview availability (Griffin and Gardenier), and media passes are available upon request.
ABOUT
Founded in 2004 by professional magician Gerry Griffin, California Magic Club has become a cherished destination for dinner-theater magic — known throughout the Bay Area as the best place to eat, drink, and be amazed by acclaimed performers from across the country and around the world. The club has staged more than 1,900 performances and welcomed thousands of guests for unforgettable nights of wonder in the heart of Martinez, California.
CONTACT
California Magic Club: John Gardenier, Owner
(844) 624-4248 | jgardenier@johngardenier.com | calmagic.com