Cursed! The Power of Magic in the Ancient World
Public Opening Day Celebration

Saturday, March 21 | 12:00–3:30 p.m. | Glass Pavilion

An enchanting afternoon of mystical activities to compliment our newest and most magical exhibition, including Alexander the Magician, intuitive experiences with Meestique, and a wire wrapped amulet activity led by the Museum’s Outreach team. A complimentary exhibition inspired mocktail potion will be available to guest who arrive early, while supplies last. 

Schedule

Folklore, Protection, and the Cultural History of Curses

This educational program examines, folklore, mythology and historical beliefs surrounding curses, protection, and spiritual safeguards across cultures. Drawing from global traditions, participants will learn how societies have historically understood misfortune, spiritual protection, and symbolic defense. Meestique will led this informational moment in the Reflection Room for audiences at Noon, 1pm, and 2pm. 

Attend to learn more about the origins of curse folklore, cultural protection practices and symbols, mythological interpretations of spiritual harm and safety, and how belief systems shape meaning, fear and resilience. 

Intuitive Psychic Group Readings with Meestique

This experience will be offered to those who are the first to arrive at 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm and is designed to be reflective and engaging, offering participants the opportunity to receive intuitive insights while observing how intuitive information can surface across a group dynamic. 

In this group setting of 10 per sessions, each participant receives a short, individualized reading within a guided group session, creating a shared yet personal experience.

The Curse of the Rose

An interactive, family-friendly, comedy-magic performance you'll never forget! Using the skills of a modern wizard, Alexander invites all brave explorers to face humanity's greatest mystery - love - and expose the ancient, cursed rituals that misdirect us from ourselves. Is he a conjurer, or a conman? Is it magic, or a mirror? Giggle your way through the big questions as you discover... The Curse of the Rose!" 

Who Is Meestique

Meestique is a professional intuitive reader with a lifelong ability to perceive symbolic, emotional, and energetic information. Practicing professionally for many years, Meestique’s readings are known for their clarity, precision, and thoughtful delivery. 

Who Is Alexander the Magician

Alexander has entertained audiences around the world for over 20 years, in over 20 countries, everywhere from streets to stages; from New Orleans to Copenhagen; from New York to Rome. Across the Americas and beyond the seas, he’s charmed wise men, befuddled fools, inspired children, and defended his virtue from tenacious women. He enjoys tongue-twisters and a captive audience.

Who Are TMA’s Outreach Team

Bring a magic mindset and create your own wire wrapped amulet with guidance from the Toledo Museum of Art’s Outreach Team. TMA Outreach offers hands on art making experiences for youth and intergenerational audiences across Toledo, with a focus on neighborhoods within a 2 mile radius of the Museum and the East Side. Through partnerships with schools, libraries, community centers, and senior centers, the team makes art accessible and welcoming to all. Materials are provided, and you’ll leave with your very own possibly cursed object.

If you need accommodations, assistance, or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event, please let us know by contacting Access Initiatives at [email protected]. Please note that while we endeavor to provide everyone with a positive visitor experience, last-minute requests may not be accommodated; we ask for requests to be made, at minimum, three days prior to the event. Thank you.

Registration is encouraged, but not required; nonregistered guests are welcome and will be welcomed in as capacity allows. Registering for our events allows us to best plan for our audience.