MagicWeek - Magic News in the UK - Magic Shop, Magic Tricks, Magic Convention

<body> MagicWeek - A magic magazine news website focusing on Magic in the UK. Magic News, TV Magic, What's On, Magic Articles, Mail Box, Magic Show Reviews, Magic roduct Reviews, Tricks, For Sale, Wanted, Magic Convention News, Magic Tricks and Magic Shops, A comprehensive directory of UK Magicians' and Magic Societies' websites (incliding links to The Magic Circle, The British Magical Society, the Blackpool Magicians Club and other top magic clubs), links to other UK magic sites and magicians, links to UK magic conventions, a magic book shop, magic dealers and shops in the UK and USA, and Magic Profile. MagicWeek is designed and produced by Duncan Trillo and updated every Saturday. RECENT NEWS: The British Ring Eastbourne Convention is just days away... and we have the final news update from Bob Hayden this week, Click Here. This year's convention boasts six stage shows, two close-up shows, two late night shows, sixteen lectures/workshops, a collectors seminar, two competitions and a giant dealers exhibition! Magicians who can't make it for the full five days have been calling to book day tickets - we think it is going to be one of the busiest British Ring conventions ever. The line-up is truly world class. And remember that you can book tickets on the day from the registration desk. Registrations for either the whole Convention or for a single day will be accepted from 10.30am onwards from Wednesday 24th September at the registration desk which will be situated in the foyer of the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne. www.britishring.org.uk. 20.9.08 Denis Behr - Live in London. Hardened close-up card workers are in for a real treat at this year's International Magic Convention (November 28th-30th at the Novotel, Euston Road, London) with both a performance and lecture from German pasteboard wizard Denis Behr. For those unfamiliar with his work, examples of his exquisite handling and execution can be seen on his website www.denisbehr.de. His book "Hand Crafted Magic" received excellent reviews in all the magical press with Genii stating "This is a book that not only justifies its existence by means of innovative material and original thinking, but which represents the mind of a thoughtful and tasteful creator who pays attention to a myriad of tiny details that can make all the difference between mediocre magic and beautiful illusions." This will be Denis's first UK Magic Convention appearance, in keeping with this year's Convention theme - "all new performers, or performances, to a UK Convention." So don't miss out - See all-new acts, lectures, performances and illusions at The International Magic Convention, November, 2008: www.internationalmagic.com. 20.9.08 Ipswich Magical Society Convention - Sunday October 26th 2008. Tickets are now available for the Ipswich Magical Society Convention featuring lectures and Gala Show performances from Mr. Biscuit (Martin Cox), Canadian Mentalist James Biss and Max Somerset. And Gala Show performances from Michael Pearce, Scott Penrose, Ashley and Wilma and Michael J. Fitch. Plus dealers and a Close-up Session. For more details, including some great special offers visit www.ipswichmagicalsociety.co.uk. 20.9.08 A Tribute to Siegfried & Roy at the London Palladium - Sunday 28th September. Join celebrities from the world of Magic, Music and the Movies to honour these two true legends of magic in a spectacular show at the world's greatest variety theatre. Starring Jeff Hobson - Host of 'V' the Ultimate Variety Show in Las Vegas, Kalin & Jinger - Stars of the 'Magic Underground', Reno, Soul Mystique - Dance Sport Champions and world class Costume Change Artists from Australia, Jason Byrne - Incredible Bird Act from Switzerland, Vik & Fabrini - Direct from the Crazy Horse in Paris, Luis de Matos - TV Magic Star from Portugal, Tomsoni & Co - Poland's favourite magicians, Ayala & Tanya - Illusionist from Mexico - Winner of the 'Academy of Magical Arts Stage Magician of the Year', Norm Nielsen - Musical Magic from Las Vegas, Raymond Crowe - Star of the 2007 Royal Variety Show from Australia and Wally Eastwood - 'The man with the fastest hands on earth' from Las Vegas. Visit www.londontheatrebookings.com to book. Then on Monday, 29th September: Siegfried & Roy's The Magic Box - exclusive London screening. Presenting a unique opportunity to join Siegfried & Roy at an exclusive screening of Siegfried & Roy The Magic Box, the Imax movie, at the Courthouse Hotel in Great Marlborough Street, London, at 2.30pm on Monday 29th September. 50 seats only available. Tickets are £100 each and will benefit MagiCares the Magic Charity. Contact Paul Stone - info@show-stealers.com for details and availability. 20.9.08 Mark Worgan's The Secrets of Entertaining Children will be available for the first time at the Eastbourne Convention, next week. Mark sent us through an advance copy. Full of solid advice; this manual really should be essential reading for every children's entertainer, from beginner to seasoned pro. And at just £20.00 it's excellent value too (now we know what Mark gets up to when he's away cruising!). Highly recommended: www.markworgan.co.uk/magicstore. 20.9.08 South Staffordshire Society of Magicians launches. 3SM is a new friendly "session based" magic club covering the South Staffordshire region, meeting on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month. Lectures, sessions, themed evenings and competitions are being planned, and membership is open to everyone with "a love and avid interest in bettering our art". Upcoming lecturers and performers include Trevor Stone (October 6th), John Carey (October 20th) and Thom Peterson, from the USA, on November 3rd. Their first meeting will take place on Monday, October 6th, at 8pm, at the Longford House Beefeater, Watling Street, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 1SJ (Map). For more information and an application form contact Chris Congreave: chriscongreave@btinternet.com telephone: 01902 631286 (mobile: 07940 724294). 20.9.08 Blaine is told stunt could cost his sight. "David Blaine risks losing his sight if he goes ahead with his latest stunt, a leading medical specialist has warned. The magician will hang upside down for 60 hours over New York's Central Park without a safety net from Monday." To read the full story by Sarah Rollo in Digital Spy, Click Here. "The day David Blaine dropped in on Donald Trump" Click Here. "David Blaine: death-dealer" Click Here. "Blaine to hang upside-down in stunt" (includes video) Click Here. 20.9.08 Ali Bongo (newly elected President of The Magic Circle) officially opened the new extension at The House of Magic (UK) in Stourbridge on Friday September 12th. No sooner had he cut the ribbon to open the extension than he had magically restored it! The opening was also attended by The Mayor and Mayoress Cllr Ray Burton and Debbie and magicians. Earlier in the afternoon Ali and John had a radio interview with Les Ross of BBC Radio WM and performed an illusion on prospective conservative MP Margot James. Ali later gave a magic lecture to a class of local magicians Click Here. www.houseofmagicuk.com. 20.9.08 Sussex Magic Circle Bloggers - Matt Parro, Stuart Harley and Geoff Hunt are back - but this time the team will be blogging everything magic live from the IBM Convention in Eastbourne. They will be reviewing the events, complete with photos, comments, reviews, ratings and even video reviews! So if you are unable to make it to the convention this year, or are simply too lazy to reach for a programme, log on to www.ibmconvention.blogspot.com to see what’s what, what's been hot and what's not! (And don’t forget to add your own thoughts too). 20.9.08 Illusionist Caesar Price has reproduced nearly all of the miracles of Jesus and built a massive cult following, but is he prepared for what will happen when he decides to stage the crucifixion? Afternoon Play 'Caesar Price our Lord' - at 2.15pm on Friday 26th September (45 minutes) on BBC Radio Four. Starring: Lee Ingleby, Aidan Parsons, Emma Cunniffe, Joanne Mitchell. See TV Magic for Radio and TV magic listings. 20.9.08 The Big Joke is London's biggest comedy festival and the pride and joy of the Leicester Square Theatre's opening season. "We're featuring up to six shows a day from a truly inspirational line-up of comedy performers from right across the spectrum in origin, age and reputation. Featuring stars such as Joan Rivers and Roseanne Barr as well as Britain's hottest comedy talent." Ali Cook www.myspace.com/alicookmagic will be performing his four star sell out Edinburgh show at the festival on Thursday, 25th September. www.leicestersquaretheatre.com. 20.9.08 The Order of the Magi (Manchester) has had a complete sell out for their upcoming Centenary Dinner and Cabaret on 21st March 2009. All 150 tickets sold in just five weeks. This four course meal with cabaret starring Roy Davenport, John Styles (pictured in his Chelsea Pensioner guise) and Martyn James and Co, now only has a standby/waiting list. If anyone wishes to be placed on this list they are requested to email president@orderofthemagi.org.uk or telephone Geoffrey Newton on 0161 969 8222. Geoffrey said “I am delighted by this amount of support from the members, together with their families and friends. I feel it is going to be a wonderful night celebrating 100 years of Magic in Manchester.” The Magi normally meet twice a month. Visit www.orderofthemagi.org.uk for details. 20.9.08 The Ace Detective Coin is a brand new release from Zane's magic shop. Effect: "A card is freely selected, signed and returned to the deck which is shuffled and placed back into its case. The magician states that he is not going to attempt to find their chosen card, but has hired a detective instead. A two pence piece then appears out of nowhere, which he claims is ‘the detective coin’ – ‘It’s a copper!’. The coin is placed on top of the card case in full view - ’it’s on the case!’ Then, with just a wave of the hand, the coin vanishes! It looks incredible! Both hands can be seen immediately afterwards - completely empty! The deck is then removed from the case and, when the cards are spread, 'the detective coin' is seen sitting on top of a card in the centre of the deck! The suspense mounts as the spectator turns this card over to reveal to everyone’s amazement that it is indeed the selected card! But that’s not all! The magician then says: ‘it sure is an ace detective…. look! Here are the four ace’s!’ - the magician turns over the two cards either side of the chosen card to reveal the four aces!" Complete with Bicycle deck, gimmicks and easy-to-follow instructions. £19.99 from www.zanesmagicshop.com. 20.9.08 Have You Got Talent? Frankie Mensah from 'Britain’s Got Talent' emails: ITV1's hit entertainment show, 'Britain's Got Talent', is back for a third series and this time it's bigger than ever! Hosted by Ant and Dec; the show gives entertainers the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of a panel of three of the most influential people in the industry: Amanda Holden, Piers Morgan and Simon Cowell. The show is open to absolutely anyone – any talent, any age - simple as that! Over the past two years we've had a huge variety of acts apply including comedians, ventriloquists, dancers, magicians, acrobats and animal acts. The last series of Britain’s Got Talent was watched by nearly 15 million viewers and is hailed as one of the most successful talent shows of this century. We are now back with our brand new third series and we’re looking for a brand new winner. Auditions begin in just a few weeks and we are receiving thousands of applications every week. So if you have a talent to showcase, why not come and audition and show Britain what you have to offer. If you would like more information on the show, or would like to apply, go to our website www.itv.com/talent or call 09018 801 010. (Calls cost 25p per minute from a BT Landline and should last no longer than 2 minutes. Calls from other networks may be higher). 20.9.08 Mark Williams did his very best to change the views of Amanda Holden when he entertained the Britain's Got Talent judge last week at a private party. Amanda admitted she doesn't like stage magicians when they come on the show and that Simon Cowell isn't a big fan. On the other hand when it comes to dinners, weddings and events, she is a fan of close-up magic. "When magicians and stand up comics take the stage and have around 30 seconds to make a good impression it is hard to beat the buzzer - many magicians let themselves down" she said. Mark did his very best to restore Amanda's faith in the art of magic! www.mwmagic.co.uk. 20.9.08 Two Portsmouth based magicians, Rob Driscoll and Sean Lobban will be ‘clucking up the air miles’ when they fly out to Perth, Western Australia, thanks to their chickens! Together, they make up the walkabout act, Clucking Fantastic and have been booked to perform their Comedy Crowd Control and Wild West chicken routine at The Perth Royal Show. For more information about this most eggsellent free-range act, visit www.cluckingfantastic.co.uk. 20.9.08 David Ginn Lecture. David Ginn presents his only lecture in Scotland during this tour at 2pm on Sunday 19th October. A lecture not to be missed by any children's magical entertainers. Venue: The Walton Suite, Southern General Hospital, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF (Map). Tickets £10, payable on the door. Contact Moira Fletcher moira1.fletcher@googlemail.com 07771 613894 for more information. 20.9.08 The Magic Lantern Society & The University of Westminster present 'Professor Pepper’s Ghost' - Rediscovering optical magic at the old Polytechnic. Six different evenings, fortnightly from Tuesday 23rd September - Tuesday 2nd December at The Old Cinema, University of Westminster, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW (Map). Free Admission, commencing 7pm sharp. Starting this Tuesday, 23rd September with 'The World’s First Projection Theatre' Jeremy Brooker provides a guide (both virtual and actual) to the Royal Polytechnic’s famous optical theatre. For the full six week programme visit: www.magiclantern.org.uk. 20.9.08 All in All it's Just Another Trick in the Wall - Sold Out. All tickets for Richard T Smith's upcoming show 'All in All it's Just Another Trick in the Wall' on Friday 26th September have now all been sold. 20.9.08 What's in your wallet? Dave Bonsall is interested in hearing from any performers who perform, or would like to perform, a card, ring or other object "to sealed envelope inside wallet" type effect. Dave has a special custom-made envelope manufacturer on standby, to produce specially prepared ready-to-use envelopes in bulk, but needs to know the demand first. They will be white, and measure 110mm x 85mm (designed around the Jerry O’Connell wallet). The price of these envelopes will depend on the volume ordered. Email Dave Bonsall at dave@fingertipmiracles.co.uk for more technical details, and to express an interest. 20.9.08 New Event in Surrey. Michael Cooley emails: "Weekend of Magic Dealers in Surrey on Saturday 25th April and Sunday 26th April 2009 at New Haw Community Centre, Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3ND. If you like more information about the event please call our hotline on 0800 6226592 or email magicmikecool@aol.com." 20.9.08 Lybrary.com expands Old Time Radio selection with the addition of Chandu. Fresh on the heels of the release of digitally restored copies of all existing episodes of the 1948 radio drama ‘Blackstone, the Magic Detective’ Lybrary.com is expanding their vintage radio offerings with the addition of 23 restored episodes of the classic radio drama ‘Chandu the Magician’. Much like the Blackstone collection, the episodes have had the worst distortions removed, while preserving the vintage AM radio sound. The entire collection is available on CD for $20 or as two episode downloads for $3.99. Chandu the Magician was created specifically for the radio in the early 1930s and originally ran as a daily 15 minute serial. It was revived, again as a 15 minute daily, in 1948 with deep voiced actor Tom Collins portraying Frank Chandler, the American secret agent who has returned from India with a command of the mystical arts. Known to his friends and enemies alike as Chandu the Magician he continues to fight for justice from exotic locations such as Cairo. In 1949 the show changed formats to weekly 30 minute episodes, each a stand alone adventure. The 23 episodes in the Lybrary.com collection are from this period. Visit www.lybrary.com. 20.9.08 Secrets of Showbusiness, Workshops. Harold Wells emails: "Training in all aspects of Magic - Puppets, including Punch & Judy - Paranormal show - Telepathy - Mindreading - Comedy sketches - Comedy stand up - Close-up magic - Graphology - Predictions - Fortune telling - Palmistry - Balloon modelling - Plate spinning. October - November, Daily. Not only for the experienced performer, who will benefit from one who has not only perfected the techniques of his craft but worked under many varied conditions in the theatrical world for 45 years. Especially beneficial for beginners, who will receive a supply of information to send them on their way, full of inspiration. Venue: The Grand, Station Road, Blackpool FY4 1BE (Alternatively contact to organise other venue on one-to-one sessions.) Book Tickets by calling 07971 367840 or alternatively purchase via the email address haroldwells@live.co.uk. Prices are £30pp - Full Day Group Session. £30pp - Half Day One-to-one." Call or email for more information. 20.9.08 Convention Crasher. Philip Partridge emails: The three episodes of Convention Crasher are now available free of charge on Channel 4 on demand archive: www.channel4.com/4od. In this new series, Justin Lee Collins crashes three conventions: magician, ventriloquist and clown, with just four weeks to transform himself into a master good enough to compete against the professionals. 20.9.08 "Show stands up to its magic tag" Click Here • "Tricky George is flippin' magic" Click Here • "Magicians, Scientists Team Up To Peek Behind The Illusion" Click Here • "Five questions for Pete Firman" Click Here • "Could it be magic?" Click Here • "Wiz woe for Paul Daniels show" Click Here • See you in Eastbourne, that's it for this week, Duncan 20.9.08 To add MagicWeek to your "Favourites" Click Here MagicWeek - Designed and Produced by Duncan Trillo © 2000-2008 Hosted by Trilltec.com Last Week: Number 429 - 13th September 2008 Ali Bongo is the new President of The Magic Circle. Magic Circle members gave standing ovations to Ali Bongo on his election as President, and Jack Delvin on his election as Vice-President, at Monday’s Annual General Meeting of The Magic Circle on September 8th. Out-going President, Alan Shaxon (photo with Ali Bongo), was warmly thanked for his excellent five years in office. Ali Bongo has been at the forefront of the British magic scene for some 40 years and is equally well known internationally. He was David Nixon’s magic man (both on screen and off) for nine years and followed this up as magical advisor to Paul Daniels for over 15 years. Jack Delvin, the new Vice-President, has had a lifetime in magic, and currently runs The Magic Circle's 'Summer School of Magic' every year. Ali and Jack have tirelessly given their services to promote and advance magic via The Magic Circle for many years. The Centre for the Magic Arts, the headquarters of The Magic Circle, has a clubroom, museum, library, function room and a beautiful theatre and has won many awards in the corporate field for providing excellent facilities for business seminars, meetings and dinners, just recently added weddings to the list! (Photo by James Freedman). 13.9.08 Siegfried & Roy's The Magic Box - exclusive London screening. Presenting a unique opportunity to join Siegfried & Roy at an exclusive screening of Siegfried & Roy The Magic Box, the Imax movie, at the Courthouse Hotel in Great Marlborough Street, London, at 2.30pm on Monday 29th September. 50 seats only available. Tickets are £100 each and will benefit MagiCares the Magic Charity. Contact Paul Stone - info@show-stealers.com for details and availability. 13.9.08 Eastbourne Convention - Important update for all registrants. This week's Convention Update includes important information relating to the collection of registration packs, and more, Click Here. It's still not too late to register - here's a quick look at who will be lecturing: Oscar Munoz ‘It’s all about the Entertainment’ Nick Einhorn ‘Very Practical Stuff You Probably Want To Do’ Bill Herz’ ‘The Business of Magic’, Bill Herz, Michael Weber and Jeff Hobson together: ‘Magic in the Corporate World’, Mike Bent ‘Children’s Magic’, Derek DelGaudio and Jason England together: ‘Hard Core Card Session’, Levent ‘Stage Magic Manipulation’ Michael Finney (photo) ‘Secrets of a Professional Comedy Magician’, Jeff Hobson ‘Egg Bag Workshop.’ Geoffrey Durham ‘Finding the Magic Ingredient’ Gene Anderson ‘The Part-time Pro’s Personal Favourites’ plus Kalin & Jinger (wait and see!), Guy Hollingworth (wait and see!) and Juan Tamariz (wait and see!). To read Bob Hayden's full update Click Here. To book online Click Here. 13.9.08 David Kaplan, who was such a hit at the recent combined IBM/SAM Convention in Louisville, has been added to the bill for this year's International Magic Convention at the Shaw Theatre and Novotel Complex in London (November 28th-30th). Illusion, music, juggling and deadpan comedy collide in his vaudevillesque spectacle. Inspired by the antics of Buster Keaton, Peter Sellers, Victor Borge and the illustrious Wile E. Coyote, David has created an act that defies description. Off-beat magic, great sight gags and impeccable timing all combine to produce an act that we predict will be one of the high points of the Gala Show. David will also be lecturing and performing his juggling act on the Friday Night Stand Up Comedy Show. Book now! www.internationalmagic.com. 13.9.08 Blackpool Magicians' Convention - updates: Jerome Murat, The Living Statue first seen at Blackpool three years ago will be appearing on the Gala Show in 2009. In the Dealers' Fair La Boutique De L'Illusion from France and Magicians Cave Productions will both be exhibiting for the very first time. And lastly, the Registration Office is now fully operational after Arthur Casson's spell in hospital. Last week an all time record was set with £10,000 being taken in registrations in just 7 days! Visit www.blackpoolmagic.com today. 13.9.08 Magic Poster and Book Collectors... On Wednesday 1st October, Paul Stone is producing a Gala Charity Fundraising Dinner and Auction at the 5 Star Landmark Hotel in London, to honour Siegfried & Roy. The Guest of Honour will be HRH Princess Michael of Kent. An auction will take place featuring around 12 unique items, with a few specifically related to Siegfried & Roy. Amongst them are two highly collectible and totally unique items. First, a magnificent poster for the 'Tribute to Siegfried & Roy at the London Palladium' Show which has been specially commissioned (see photo). Designed by Robert Gould, it will be a one-off poster - there will be no others produced - and it will be signed by Siegfried & Roy at the Dinner. It will come complete with a photograph of Siegfried & Roy signing it. For poster collectors, it is a very unique and desirable item. And second, Summer 2009 will see the production of undoubtedly one of the most collectible books released to the magic fraternity for many years (see below), Siegfried and Roy: Masters of the Impossible - Limited Edition Collectors’ Vault Book. Number 1 will be auctioned at the Gala Charity Dinner. Bids for either of these two unique items should be sent to Paul Stone: info@show-stealers.com no later than 29th September. 13.9.08 Siegfried and Roy: Masters of the Impossible - Limited Edition Collectors’ Vault Book. Siegfried and Roy are unlike any performers in the history of magic or show business. Only a book of the highest standards is appropriate to bring their unparalleled story to life. Each visually stunning turn of the page provides thought-provoking glimpses into the artistry and vision that has branded their success. Like the artists themselves, this magnificent limited edition boxed collectors’ vault book, Siegfried & Roy: Masters of the Impossible, is unlike any book ever published in magic—and it is strictly limited to five-hundred sealed and numbered copies. Editor Diana S. Zimmerman, a former magician, best-selling novelist and award-winning journalist, is gathering the greatest minds in magic and show business to provide personal insights into their lives and careers. You will explore—using Siegfried and Roy’s own words, and those who know them best—their journey, as well as the extraordinary impact these two individuals have had on entertainment, culture, the white tigers, and the world. Designed by internationally renowned and award winning art director, Robert Gould, Siegfried & Roy: Masters of the Impossible, is presented in the tradition of the best-selling vault books The Disney Treasures and The Star Wars Vault: Thirty Years of Treasures from the Lucasfilm Archives. Drawn from private collectors, as well as Siegfried & Roy’s own archives, the book contains exact reproductions of rare historical show posters and tickets, personal Christmas cards, tour marketing materials and merchandise, photographs, handwritten letters and notes, actual fabric from the S & R theatre show curtains, and so much more. Many of the items are removable for the reader’s examination and pleasure. Publication: Summer 2009. Publication Price: $695.00. Pre-publication price $595.00. 13.9.08 An Evening of Magic and Illusion - Nottingham, Sunday 14th September. The Nottingham Guild of Magicians stage An Evening of Magic and Illusion at The Bonington Theatre, Arnold Leisure Centre, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 7EE (Map) on Sunday. Starring Graham P. Jolley (photo), High Jinx, Patrick Page, Andrew Van Buren & Company and Roy Davenport. Sunday, 14th September, show time 7.30pm - 10pm, (Doors open at 7pm), Tickets are £12.50 and are on sale now. Andrew Van Buren, Patrick Page and Roy Davenport will also be lecturing during the afternoon in the Theatre Bar 2pm - 5.45pm (Doors open 1.45pm) and only £5.00 for all three lectures. Tickets for both events can be booked via Freddie Wilkinson on 0115 9614551 www.nottinghamguildofmagicians.co.uk. 13.9.08 Electric Empire presents ‘Magic Night’ at Soho Revue Bar, on Friday 3rd October: With Max Somerset, Miss Direction, Oliver Tabors, Anil Desai , Steve Della, Christian Lee and Neil Henry. Doors open 7pm, Show starts at 8pm, Tickets £10.00, Concessions £7.00 www.ticketweb.co.uk. Soho Revue Bar, 11 Walkers Court, Soho, London W1 www.sohorevuebar.com. 2.8.08 John Lenahan has written a novel! John Lenahan - Comedian/Magician, star of BBC's Stuff the White Rabbit and The Secret's of Magic has had his first novel, Shadowmagic, published by Harper Collins in a beautiful, limited (1000 copies) signed, numbered, hardback edition. As one reviewer put it, "Shadowmagic is the Lord of the Rings for the 21st century. Only a lot shorter. And funnier. And completely different." To order your copy postage free worldwide visit www.bookdepository.co.uk. 13.9.08 And after maths, we have magic tricks! "Harry Potter-style lessons 'boost children's confidence'. Children should be taught magic tricks in schools to boost their confidence and self-discipline, researchers say. A study found that an hour lesson at a 'magic school' did more good for a group of 10 to 12-year-olds than their normal 'life skills' classes. Prof Richard Wiseman, a psychologist at Hertfordshire University who carried out the study, called for magic to be included on the national curriculum. 'Learning magic requires self-discipline, an understanding of how other people think and an ability to entertain,' he said..." To read the full story in the Daily Mail by David Derbyshire Click Here. "Magic 'boosts pupils' confidence'" Click Here. (I have to say the back row of double Chemistry is certainly where I learnt some of my finest moves! DT) 13.9.08 "Use Magicians, Not Teachers!" Say The Young Magicians Club, part of The Magic Circle’s Youth Initiative: The Young Magicians Club is concerned that teachers in schools could spoil the benefits that learning magic could bring to pupils. Following a news report that putting magic on the curriculum would lead to better abilities for pupils, the club for ten to eighteen year olds warns this will only be true when taught by magicians. ‘Teachers would merely have time to learn the bare bones and then pass on their knowledge without considering its full value in terms of confidence building and presentational skills,’ says Mandy Davis, Chairman of YMC and organiser of its monthly workshops for members. ‘Magicians, with the ability to teach, will be able to give pupils the full benefits in terms of self-confidence and self-discipline as well as securing interest in subjects such as history and maths. Teachers just won’t have time to acquire the knowledge needed for this. ‘The members of the Young Magicians Club come to us to learn tricks but leave with great inter-personal skills. They are all delightful young men and women when they reach the age of eighteen and the GCSE and A-Level results, this year alone, have been amazing!’ Anyone interested in joining YMC should visit www.youngmagiciansclub.com and if interested in arranging magicians for groups or schools contact The Magic Circle’s Press Officer Jack Delvin, magic@jackdelvin.co.uk. 13.9.08 Derren Brown: Messiah is being repeated at 11.05pm on Friday 19th September on Channel 4. "The controversial, award-winning psychological illusionist Derren Brown challenges certain belief systems and our tendency not to question them in this provocative, insightful and entertaining one-off special. How easy is it to persuade people to believe unquestionably in an idea just because it comes from someone in a position of authority?" See TV Magic. 13.9.08 Look out for Paul Zenon on the One Show, at 7pm on BBC1 on Tuesday, talking about the history of magic (loosely linked to the new BBC Merlin series). Paul's just back from the Edinburgh Fringe where he built a venue called the Marquee de Sideshow and MC'd over 120 shows in four weeks. 13.9.08 Wayne Dobson Lecture. The Medway Magic Society is delighted to announce that Wayne Dobson will be lecturing on Tuesday 21st October. Members of other magic societies are welcome to attend. Tickets are £10. Contact Secretary Tony Hanscombe, 01634 366192 for more information. 8pm to 10pm, The Gordon House Hotel, 91 High Street, Rochester, Kent ME1 1LX (Map). Ample parking nearby. www.medwaymagicalsociety.org.uk. 13.9.08 Illusions Magic Bar celebrated their first birthday in style with a private bash for friends last week. Magic Singh and James Brown and a host of local magicians attended the function. The evening started a around 8pm with a fire juggler outside entertaining the passing guests, and at 9pm their resident musician Ant Noel played some classics, ranging from ELO to a song he wrote especially about the bar itself! Mark Bennett performed the Zig Zag Lady to a thunderous applause and then let the guests enjoy an evening of magic and frolics. Guests that couldn’t get to the bar could watch the magic live on the newly installed wide screen TV on the other side of the bar, and Jeffrey Tam, who is currently visiting, performed his award wining jumbo coin magic! Mark and Sylvie would like to thank everyone for coming and supporting the UK’s only magic bar. Be sure to pop in when visiting Bristol. www.illusionsmagicbar.co.uk. 13.9.08 Master of the Macabre. "Joe Daly knew he wanted to be a magician at the tender age of six when he saw Paul Daniels in Blackpool. Now the Irish illusionist's new show Magick Macabre is set to make magic sexy - and has attracted the attention of master of horror Wes Craven..." To read the full story by Susan Daly in Independent.ie Click Here. Joe Daly on YouTube Click Here. 13.9.08 John Derris launches KISS lecture online. John Derris's lecture "KISS" (Keep it Simple Stupid) presented at magic clubs in Britain and overseas for the past four years, is now available online as a PDF: "This new, expanded 50 page presentation is filled with proven business strategy that he successfully used with his advertising agency for thirty years. Twelve years ago he used the KISS principle to develop bookings which won him engagements in Paris, Athens, Estoril, Marbella, Morocco, Florida, Copenhagen, Istanbul, St. Petersburg and Osaka. The new edition online KISS is packed with practical marketing ideas for developing yourself, your business and your magic programme to lift you to a new level of professionalism and income. If you're an established performer this is not for you. But if you are a competent magician who would like to reach a new level of performing and financial success - this is the best investment you'll make this year." Visit www.magicderris.com for details.. 13.9.08 Marcus Brigstocke invites Paul Daniels to be his guest and try new experiences on Radio Four's new series 'I've Never Seen Star Wars' on Thursday, 25th September at 6.30pm. "Paul Daniels, The Krankies, Cannon & Ball... So just why do these geriatric jokers still play to sell-out crowds?" Click Here. 13.9.08 Safire in Aladdin this Christmas. "Aladdin is a pantomime for all the family, with superb sets, dazzling costumes and a script with plenty of local references to give it that home grown feeling. Aladdin promises to be one of the highlights of the festive season. Featuring Britain’s number one illusionists Safire from the Chuckle Brothers Show, and the hilarious Panto Dame Steve Barclay... Join us for a magical carpet ride." Wednesday 10th to Saturday 27th December. Box Office: 024 7637 6707 www.civichallinbedworth.co.uk. 13.9.08 ACES Magic Society Annual Dinner. Nicky Moon emails: ACES Magic Society are delighted to invite magical friends along to their Annual Dinner with a first for us, World Champion, Blackpool Ken Dodd Comedy Award winner and Kidology lecturer John Kimmons. 18th October 2008 from 7.30pm. Tickets for dinner, close-up magic and star cabaret £30 a head. Tables of 8 get a one free! Venue: Halland Forge, Halland, East Sussex. £30 cheques (made payable to 'ACES Magic Society' should be sent to 8 Downlands Avenue, Worthing, West Sussex BN14 9HD before 8th October 2008. For more info email thisismagic@msn.com. Accommodation available at discounted rates. Free car parking on site. www.acesmagic.co.uk. 13.9.08 The Wessex Magical Association Annual Dinner & Cabaret will be held on Friday 3rd October (7pm for 7.30pm) at Heathlands Hotel, Grove Road, East Cliff, Bournemouth BH1 3AY (Map). The cabaret stars Amethyst and Mark Worgan. Four-course dinner with vegetarian option and coffee, Table Magic and Tombola, Music and Dancing, Bar to 1am. Black Tie/Lounge Suits. Tickets (£28.00 each) from Andy Nineham 01305 833439 or Derek Roberts 01202 247370. 13.9.08 An Evening of Fine Wine, Dining and Conjuring. 7pm, Friday 19th September, at Browns 82-84 St Martin's Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4AA (Map). "Standnotamazed and Browns present a rare opportunity to see award-winning contemporary magician John van der Put present his close-up magic live in the heart of the West End. From creating the magic for Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck, to launching new televisions with Lily Allen and performing to countless celebrities at the most exclusive parties, John is one of the finest magicians working today. ‘Unbelievable’ - Jeremy Clarkson ‘Awesome’ - Steven Seagal. A three course meal and wine tasting will be accompanied by jaw dropping close-up magic throughout the evening, followed by an intimate after-dinner cabaret from standnotamazed (it is very possible this may include a certain magical dragon). Each course will be accompanied by specially selected wines to complement each dish. The entire evening costs just £35, and includes dinner, cabaret, wine tasting and half a bottle of wine. Please note, tickets are only available in advance for this event, and seats are very limited!" To book call 020 7395 6091 or email brownscourtrooms@mbplc.com. www.standnotamazed.com. 13.9.08 International Festival of Modern Magic, Prague. 10th, 11th October 2008, Prague. "Dear magic friends, I would like to sincerely invite you to the 5th International Festival and competition in Modern Magic - Grand Prix of the Magic Hall in Czech Republic which will be held in Líbeznice just outside Prague from October 10th to 11th 2008. We are looking forward to meeting you in Prague." Pavel Kožíšek, President. Email festival@umeleckaagentura.cz for a PDF brochure and registration form. 13.9.08 A Tapestry of Deception by Michael Vincent. The Riviera Circle of Magicians will be hosting a lecture by Michael Vincent entitled A Tapestry of Deception at 8pm on Wednesday 26th November. An evening not to be missed! Venue: Wilsons Inn, 63 Babacombe Downs Road, Torquay TQ1 2LP (Map). Admission is £5.00 payable on the door. The venue opens at 6pm, serves great food, and has on street parking. There is also a public car park less than 3 minutes away. For more info contact Nigel Hocking, Secretary of the R.C.M. nigelhocking@yahoo.co.uk. 13.9.08 The Blackpool & Fylde Mystics have launched a new website: www.fyldemystics.co.uk. Their next meeting is at 8pm on Tuesday 7th October at the Frank Townend Centre, Cleveleys, Lancashire. For more information or an application form email blackpool_fylde_mystics@yahoo.co.uk. 13.9.08 Children's entertainer Stu-Di-Doo (Stuart Hodgson) found himself in the pages of That's Life! magazine last week. Click Here to read the story. 13.9.08 Party Tricks. "Magicians are earning rave reviews from businesses planning the perfect corporate event. John Hill meets a few who've wowed the crowds in the Wharf. I met two people in hotel bars recently. The first one stole my ring, and the second bent a fork and made my five pound note disappear. Most of the time, that's a sign that you're drinking with the wrong crowd. But these guys are in demand with multi-billon pound companies from Canary Wharf to Dubai..." To read the full story featuring David Bonsall, Jamie Raven and Don Moses in Wharf.co.uk Click Here. 13.9.08 Deafblind UK assistance request. Jonathan Lucia-Wright emails: "Last Year Jimmy O'Hare was lucky enough to attend the Blackpool Magic Convention. This was such an amazing experience for him as he learnt so much, it is important for Jimmy that he is able to access and feel different props, tricks etc as Jimmy is both blind and deaf. Attending the convention enabled him to gain hands on explanations of tricks that he couldn't imagine. He wishes to thank his sponsors - Derren Brown, Uri Geller, Kaymar Magic, and Beard Juggling. Since Blackpool Jimmy has been invited to the Southern England Magic Convention next year so once again we are looking for anyone who could help with sponsorship or funding as he has to cover the full cost of transport and accommodation for himself and three carers, we are looking for roughly £500. If anyone can help however big or small please contact JJ at instantmash@hotmail.com www.extremeclowning.piczo.com." 13.9.08 "Scientist explodes myth about Big Bum Theory and the wrong type of stripes. It’s one of the cardinal rules of dressing: horizontal stripes make you look fat; vertical ones slim you down." Thanks to Nick Einhorn for spotting this article, whose theme can also be applied to illusion design (or simply how to look good!). Click Here • New Lecture Reviews this week: Michael Vincent, Peter Baffles and Wayne Dobson • "Chris's act is not what you're thinking" Click Here • Busy week. Your UK magic news is always welcome - thanks to all contributors. See you next week, Duncan . 13.9.08 © www.magicweek.co.uk 2000-2008 © www.magicweek.co.uk 2000-20008 </body>