Douglas Raymond Kornegay

Douglas Raymond Kornegay, born January 21, 1933, spent a career in the theater performing magic with wife Donnie, and later behind the scenes with IATSE Houston Local 51. His work in technical theatre, included a long stint as Backstage Manager of the Houston Music Hall.

Douglas’ enthusiasm for magic began at the age of 7, when he received a magic set for his birthday. He soon became a regular fixture at Howard’s Magic Shop in downtown Houston; and by the age of 15 could boast over 500 public appearances.

As a teenager, Douglas won a world championship Yo-Yo title at the 1949 Toronto Exposition. He later became a representative for the Duncan Yo-Yo Company, traveling throughout Mexico, Central and South America promoting the brand.

While serving in the Special Services branch of the United States Army, Douglas entertained the troops, touring the U.S. and Japan. And upon his discharge, along with wife Donnie, played theater circuits throughout the United States and Canada. Douglas appeared on The Steve Allen Show, Dave Garroway’s Today, Super Circus and other network television shows.

For more than 50 years, Douglas has been an active member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, the Society of American Magicians and the Texas Association of Magicians. He has been awarded the distinction of Dean of Society of American Magicians, Assembly 19; Order of Merlin – Excalibur; Order of Willard; and served as the President of the Texas Association of Magicians. His performance at the 1966 TAOM convention in Houston, Texas, was awarded “Best of Convention.”

Douglas’ forays into variety entertainment included performing in circuses, owning a small traveling carnival, consulting for films, and promotions for shopping mall openings. He owned the Oak Village Movie Theater in Spring Branch in the 1970s.

In more recent years, Douglas could be found working back stage in many of Houston’s theaters – the Music Hall, Jones Hall, the Coliseum, the Convention Centers, Miller Outdoor Theater, and the Wortham, among others. He’s been an active member of Local 51 for more than 30 years.

Douglas is survived by wife and performing partner Donnie; daughter Diana Davison, husband Michael Davison and grandson Dylan Davison; and daughter DeLora Cardone and husband Thomas Cardone.