Cocktails and Doc Tales by Doc Eason

“Welcome to Cocktails & Doc Tales, a book you may not remember, but you won’t forget.” This delightfully absurd line, opening Doc Eason’s memoir, has been the heart of his comedy magic shows for over forty years-and it’s more profound than it seems.

Part memoir, part folk history, and part philosophical reflection, Cocktails & Doc Tales tells the story of how a little bar in the Colorado Rockies became the world-famous Tower Comedy Magic Bar. From John Denver’s unexpected role to life-changing serendipity, Doc shares stories of celebrity encounters, the art of bar magic, and the moments that turned into lifelong memories. Whether you’re seeking laughter, inspiration, or a glimpse into the magic of life, this book offers something for everyone.

“What does it take to be a magic bartender? Take an accomplished magician, add a huge load of comedy, an amazing sense of timing, and stir. Then pour in some psychology, a quick wit, and a love for people laughing. Shake with a little saltiness and top off with a big helping of improvisation, and you too can be a bar magician!”
– Jeff Bibik (Magic Bartender Extraordinaire)

“For over 45 years, Doc has been performing for audiences around the world, garnering him infinite laughs, a lifetime of memories, and a firm and rightful spot in the annals of Magic Bar history.”
– Shawn McMaster (Master Magician)

“We love magic! Imagine our delight, our awe, to discover that the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) of magic lives right here in Aspen/Snow-mass, Colorado! He is brilliant, witty, and adorable, and if you don’t have a dollar bill stuck on your ceiling (famous trick), you are nobody in our town! And now we have the story behind the man. After you read it, nail it to the ceiling.”
– Mike Peters Family (Pulitzer Prize-winning Cartoonist/Snowmass resident & friend)

“Amazing read about amazing people living amazing times and providing amazing tales!”
– Dr. Michael and Sherra Weil (Amazing People)

“I hare been watching Doc Eason mesmerize crowds at the bar for more than four decades, and yet I never catch him slipping a card under the clar bentuse / am laughing so much. That is Doc’s genius. He is such a strong entertainer that his ‘technique becomes invisible. Even mere, his technique becomes irrelevant because all that the audience remembers is what a fabulous time they are having as they fall under the spell of “The Doctor.”
– Eddie Goldstein (Master Magician)

“You captured the theme and object of the Magic Bar perfectly. I’m grateful I was there at the headwaters of your journey!”
– Bob Sheets (Magical Mentor)

“I am writing to invite you to join us as an Honorary Professional Member of The Magic Circle. As someone who is respected by so many of our members, we invite you to be a part of our magical family. You have contributed so much to the world of magic, so we would be bon-oured to have you as a member. Your visit to The Magic Circle with Ryan is still spoken about by so many who were lucky to be there, and those who attended your masterclass have described it as one of their favorite events at The Magic Circle.”
– Megan Swann, MIMC (President of The Magic Circle, London UK)

“Over more than four decades, you have received multiple regional and national awards-including ‘Master Magician’ and ‘Close Up Magician of the Year.’ But would it surprise you that Jim Chaffin and I have recognized you with a Chaffin/Light Associates Lifetime Achievement Award as a ‘Community Builder? During your tenure at the Tower Magic Bar/Restaurant, which was the popular gathering place in the Mall, you did much more than attract, amaze, and entertain resort guests. You brought us all, local and visitor alike, together again and again to enjoy your magical skills, your warmth, and your sense of humor. You were a pioneer who helped ‘create community’ by offering the first space for visitors to feel welcomed and to have an opportunity to build new friendships with residents. Thanks, Doc.”
– Jim Light (Chaffin/Light Associates, Snowmass)

“Having Doc at the Magic Castle is always a treat! We love having his hilarious magical personality behind the bar!”
– Jack Goldfinger (Magic Castle Entertainment Director)

“Settle in with a favorite beverage, open to any page, and you’ll be treated to a taste of the wit and wisdom of this amazing entertainer and raconteur.”
– Eric Mead (Master Magician)