Number 449 - 31st January 2009

 

School of Busking - Cardiff, June, 2009. Gazzo and Mario Morris present a three day busking course, suitable for the part time hobbyist or the full time professional, in Cardiff on June 19th, 20th and 21st. The course will focus on street performing - with work on the psychology of attracting an audience, entertaining an audience, keeping an audience, opening and closing pitches, hat lines, passing the hat, travelling, life styles and "all your questions answered"! Spaces are limited. Gazzo will be teaching his world famous cups and ball routine and Mario will show you how to make it yours. Show finale’s will be looked at, from strait jacket escapes to using circus skills. Bring your own props, cups, tables, strait jacket, chains... and ideas, and Gazzo and Mario will be at hand to help you develop a unique show. A highlight of the weekend will be opportunity for participants to take to the streets of Cardiff. The real value of the course is the opportunity to focus on street work with two well known, experienced street entertainers. Informal and friendly, this is a unique learning experience. The fee for the course is £200 per participant with a £50 deposit securing your place. For more information email Mario: mario@bizzareshows.com or call 0034 677184116. 31.1.09

 

Showzam 09 - More star magic and variety names announced! Blackpool’s Festival of Magic and Circus and will feature a cast of variety stars from around the world. The International Stars of Magic show at the Opera House on Saturday February 14th stars Russ Stevens and his incredible large-scale illusions (photo), French UV artiste Omar Pasha, Soma’s unique mobile phone act, Rafael and his comedy dove act, World Champion card manipulator Mahka Tendo, Nestor Hato and his explosive card magic, the shadowgraphy of Jerome Helfenstein, the ever-brilliant Graham P Jolley, and World Champion Magician Juan Mayoral. Variety Live at The Grand, on Thursday 19th, Friday 20th and Saturday 21st also features a world class line-up (see MagicWeek number 446). Showzam 09 is ten days packed full of enticing entertainment, sensational new shows and wonderful workshops. It's the only event in the UK to meld the worlds of magic, circus, exhibition and theatre in a festival style event. Visit www.showzam.co.uk for full details. 31.1.09

 

Paul Daniels Master Class: Inside the Mind of Paul Daniels. Thursday, 12th March, Little Haven Hotel, South Shields. "Watch Paul Daniels on any stage and you somehow know nothing can go wrong. It all looks so easy, so casual, and each effect flows with entertainment. For years Paul has turned down request after request to reveal his methods of arriving at this level of perfection. Magicians around the world had the opportunity a few years ago to learn from his business methods with the astonishingly detailed disk titled ‘How to Make Money by Magic’ but Paul’s own performance methods were held back. Many have tried to copy his style and have even copied his methods and routines but there is a very, very good reason why they have failed to have the same audience appeal. Now, for the first time, Paul is going to reveal how and why his routines were developed by taking a small group through not only the methods but also the psychological thinking that creates that deceptively simple appearance..." Visit www.pauldanielsmasterclass.co.uk for more information and to book. 31.1.09

 

Marc Spelmann presents his lecture '101108' at The Merlin Magical Society, Hertfordshire, at 8pm on Thursday 5th February. This excellent lecture was featured recently at Mindvention in Las Vegas and was one of the highlights of the convention with attendees including Larry Becker, Lee Earle, Marc Salem, Docc Hilford, Andy Nyman and Rick Maue. Contact The Honorary Secretary John Clayton on 07931 525399 if you'd like to attend (there is a £5.00 charge). To book Marc's lecture for your club email info@marcspelmann.co.uk. www.marcspelmann.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

Shawn Farquhar, The Bread & Butter Tour. The Darlington Magic Circle are pleased to announce that the multi-award winning magician and current International Magic Close-Up Champion Shawn Farquhar will be lecturing on Friday 15th May. A warm welcome is extended to magicians to join them at what is Shawn’s only confirmed date in the North East during his short UK tour. The club emails: "Whether you’ve seen Shawn before or not this is an event not to be missed. The lecture is highly professional and your opportunity to meet and learn from one of the masters of the art as he shows you how he performs his winning routines and much more, as well as how you can incorporate this into your magic no matter what your current level of expertise. We are developing a reputation as a relaxed and friendly society keen to promote magic so look forward to welcoming you." £5.00 admission for non-members; accompanied juniors are free. Easy access as just off the A1 and on the East Coast mainline. Further details about Shawn and the content of the lecture are available via www.thedarlingtonmagiccircle.co.uk or to book a seat email Iain Jae (Secretary) iainjae@ntlworld.com. Places will be reserved on a strictly first-come basis. 31.1.09

 

The Magic of Variety Show. As part of The Order of The Magi’s Centenary Celebrations the society is presenting The Magic of Variety Show at Waterside Arts Centre in Sale, Greater Manchester on Friday 27th March at 8pm. The event features Brian Sefton, Ward Allen with Roger the Dog and Snowflake the cat, High Jinx, Phil Hoyles (Jerome Flynn's understudy in the stage play 'Jus’ Like That'), Steve Royle, Amethyst and the Magic Dancers choreographed by Corin Travis. All tickets are £10.00 with reserved seating from the box office on 0161 912 5616. See www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. 31.1.09

 

Bradford Magic Circle's annual Hey Presto! Magic Show appears like a rabbit from a hat once again on Saturday 21st March at 7.30pm. "The sell-out annual family show at the Bingley Arts Centre this year features top illusionist Andrew Green and is compèred by the very funny Tony Rix. This year's event will also be a final farewell for Hey Presto stalwart and Bradford Magic Circle treasurer, past president and former editor of the societies Billet magazine, Keith Pickles. He will be finally hanging up his wand after 40 years as a children's entertainer. Other acts on the bill include Steve Gore, Mark Waddington, Mandy Fletcher and the spotlight dancers. Tickets for the show start at only £6 for adults and £5 for children and concessions." To book telephone 01274 432000 or visit www.bradford-theatres.co.uk. This show sells out every year so get your tickets now! 31.1.09

 

The Robert Harbin Centenary Celebration - update. Alan Shaxon & Anne will present Harbin's The Blades of Opah following John Gaughan’s talk on Sunday 15th February at The Centre for the Magic Arts. The programme for Sunday 15th February is now as follows: Jim Steinmeyer MIMC - Robert Harbin and the Polemics of Illusion, A discussion on Harbin’s influence on illusions, his insights and inspirations for modern performers. Mike Caveney MIMC - The American Zig-Zag Scandal, The complete story that became the catalyst that prompted Bob to write the highly regarded Magic of Robert Harbin. John Gaughan MIMC - The Blades of Opah, John will discuss the history of one of Bob’s early inventions. Alan Shaxon MIMC & Anne present The Blades of Opah. Steve Biddle AIMC and Megumi - Harbin: A Pioneer of Origami, Steve and Megumi will talk about Bob’s outstanding contribution to the world of Origami. John Fisher MIMC - The Television Wizard, A celebration on film and video of Harbin the performer including previously unseen footage of Harbin spanning fifty years. With special guest Geoffrey Durham MIMC. There will be an exhibition of Harbin related items, some never seen before, and a surprise appearance of long-time Harbin friend Rolf Harris CBE is planned. Registration fee for Sunday 15th February, to include morning coffee, hot buffet lunch with wine, afternoon tea and a programme, is £60.00. Call the Box Office on 020 7387 2222 (with credit card details) or write to: Box Office, CMA, 12 Stephenson Way, London NW1 2HD. Enquiries to: cma@themagiccircle.co.uk (Also see What's On for details of the unveiling of a Blue Plaque on Monday 16th February). 31.1.09

 

Manipulix.com are now advertising on MagicWeek. "We started this business under the name of Manipulix in 1993 and are located in the Bavarian Forest, 170km east of Munich, close to the Austrian border, in a tiny village called Lalling. Our shop is open twice a week (Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings) and we have visitors from all over the world. All visitors are offered a glass of water or wine or even a cup of coffee and or tea. We also are open on demand. To contact us by phone call +49 9904 696 or email info@manipulix.com. We visit major European magic conventions in Europe; the last one being in France. For the last a couple of years we have been publishing books on Mentalism by Angelo Stagnaro (see below), together with other authors and titles." Visit www.manipulix.com today! 31.1.09

 

Shibboleth: Mentalist Secrets by Angelo Stagnaro. From Manipulix.com: "Angelo Stagnaro's 'Shibboleth' is a collection of very powerful mentalism routines. So powerful that Jeff McBride describes the information as dangerous to those who would wield it unwisely! The fourth book in the Psi-Books series, 'Shibboleth' was inspired by Stagnaro's desire to perform mentalism without relying on known psychological techniques. Inspiration was also found in suggestions from audience members, who asked to see effects duplicated from pop culture sources like movies and comic books. Stagnaro has also taken these suggestions to heart. Stagnaro also provides a new and refreshing format for his book. The effect descriptions are brief, and accompanied by a symbol-coded system describing various aspects of each effect. This makes for an interesting read and a great addition to any magician's or mentalist's library. 149 pages, hardbound." For more information and to order visit: www.manipulix.com. 31.1.09

 

Woody Allen's Scoop is being shown next Saturday on BBC 2 (see TV Magic). "Tip-offs to would-be journalist Sondra Pransky from beyond the grave improbably identify a serial killer stalking London as dashing aristocrat Peter Lyman. Aided by cynical magician Sid, Sondra strikes up a relationship with the suspect." Director: Woody Allen. Magic Consultant: Scott Penrose. 31.1.09

 

Daryl "The Magician's Magician" Lecture. Daryl presents his only two-hour lecture in London for the Ilford Magical Society on Sunday 1st March at 5pm. "He represents the best of the best in the world of close-up magic." £10.00 for visiting magicians. Venue: Upminster Rugby Club, Hall Lane, Upminster, Essex RM14 1AU (Map). Contact Dave Kay on 07834 678876 for details, or email dave@ilfordmagic.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

Jon Gresham’s Sideshows Exhibition. As part of the Blackpool Showzam 09 festival Jon Marshall will be displaying five of the late Jon Gresham’s Sideshows, with the first showing of the newly restored Mummy show, last seen in 1966. The display includes The Headless Lady, first shown in Blackpool in 1937, The Living Half Lady and The Girl in the Goldfish Bowl. The shows will enthral young visitors and remind older folk of the show rows that were seen at amusement parks, fairs and, of course, on Blackpool’s Golden Mile in years gone by. The shows are part of the Circus of Wonders exhibition and will be on display from Friday 13th to Sunday 22nd February in Olympia at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. They will be working on Saturdays and Sundays during Showzam. Blackpool has a great tradition of sideshows with many illusion based shows being seen over the years from magical characters including Bodie, Murray, Derek Lever with his Invisible Ray and Stromboli. Visitors won't have to pay 6d or even a shilling - the exhibition has free admission! 31.1.09

 

Lectures and Workshops for the Wessex Magical Association One Day Convention announced. The Star Lecturers will be full-time professional close-up and cabaret comedy magician Jasper Blakeley (photo) and multi-talented magic performer/inventor/dealer/editor Stephen Tucker. With workshops by Roger Drew (comedy magic), Tony Griffith (handling & presentation), and Playtime Balloons. In addition, there will be several additional hands-on close-up sessions. Magic Dealers attending include: Alakazam, The Card Collection, The Magic Zone, Mike Danata's Magic Studio, Razamatazz, Playtime Balloons, Paul Gordon, Stephen Tucker, Carol Gilbert and Tony Griffith. Full details of the 6.30pm Evening Gala Performance will be announced shortly. Sunday 5th April. Kinson Community Centre, Millhams Road, Kinson, Bournemouth BH10 7LH (Map). Doors open at 9.30am. Full registration (including the Gala Show) £18.00 in advance, £20.00 on the door. Gala show only tickets: £7.50. www.wmagic.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

Richard Bellars 'Live' An Evening of Magic and Mind Control, Friday February 13th at 7.30pm at the Royal Victoria Hall Theatre, Southborough. From the promoters: "Captive8 productions presents Richard Bellars, one of the country’s most exciting up and coming magicians. Taking the skills and rules of mind control to a new and relevant level, Richard’s style is fresh and original, he knows how to captivate an audience with mind boggling acts of logic defying brilliance. We at captive8 productions are very excited to offer this one off masterpiece of a show. Tickets are on sale at only £10 each and we guarantee you will not be disappointed. So don’t be ‘unlucky’ on Friday the 13th be a part of this extraordinary evening, and who knows maybe you’ll never think of Friday the 13th in the same way again! To avoid disappointment call the box office now on 01892 511511." 31.1.09

 

Creative Marketing Services under no illusions about Magicseen. Magicseen magazine has appointed one of the UK’s top agencies, CMS (Creative Marketing Services) to help take it to the next level. Magicseen editor and co-publisher Mark Leveridge said, “With Magicseen now available extensively in the US and Canada, and pushing to raise its profile, we decided to bring in CMS who have worked very successfully with niche businesses in the past. As a growing publisher, we know that it’s vital to work with the right people. CMS are massively experienced and we know that they deliver results.” CMS MD Andrew Batty said: “Magicseen magazine is Europe’s number one magic magazine and after four years of growing sales is about to become a truly worldwide publication. We are also looking at a number of other areas which Magicseen is looking to become involved, such as events and publishing.” Issue 25 of Magicseen is due out soon, complete with a brand new look throughout - don't miss it! www.magicseen.co.uk www.creativemarketingservices.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

Tabula Mentis V: Mentalism Gone Mad! Psycrets: British Society of Mystery Entertainers present Tabula Mentis V: Mentalism Gone Mad! On Saturday April 25th from 10am at 7 Mallow Street, London EC1Y 8RQ (Map). Featuring: Docc ‘The Monster of Mentalism’ Hilford, Mentalism Methods Roundtable with Malchat, Simon Shaw and others, and Anthony Jacquin: Reality is Plastic and the Art of Hypnosis. Special guest dealer Peter Nardi and Alakazam. Plus coffee, tea and catered lunch. Visit www.psycrets.org.uk for details. 31.1.09

 

South Downs Magicians present a fund-raising Magic, Mystery and Illusion show for all the family on Friday, February 27th at 7.30pm at the Parish Hall, High Street, Handcross, West Sussex RH17 6BJ (Map). There will be refreshments and a raffle during the evening. The show will be compèred by club president Jonathan Cann and feature performances from members. All proceeds will be shared between the South Downs Magicians and the fighting fund to build a new community centre in Handcross. This is the first public show the South Downs Magicians have put on for many years and the club is hoping for a sell-out event. Tickets cost £5.00 and are available from club secretary Paul Bromley on 01444 871161. www.southdownsmagicians.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

Spellbound. "An amazing night of close-up card magic and hypnotism. "Card magician Adam Smith and the world's foremost hypnotist Freddie Jacquin are traveling around the South of England entertaining people with a fun night of card magic and hypnosis, for more details of venues, or if you would like us to come to a venue near you, contact Adam: ads.smith20@btopenworld.com Also see: www.adams-magic.co.uk and www.freddyjacquin.net. 31.1.09

 

The South London Magic Society meet every second Friday of the month at the United Reform Church Hall in Cobden Road, South Norwood at 7.30pm. Their recently re-launched website www.slmagic.co.uk invites enquiries from prospective members "whether you're a beginner, hobbyist, semi-professional or professional, you are always welcome at the South London Magic Society". Mike Smith will be lecturing at the club on Friday 13th February, visit www.slmagic.co.uk for details. 31.1.09

 

MagicBox DVD Sale! "We have put just over 100 titles on line with most at over 50% off their original price! We have also announced the upcoming release of Copper Silver Extreme which is an idea of Kris Rubens who works for us! We have only just added a video demo on line and will be launching it at the Blackpool convention." Visit www.magicbox.uk.com today! 31.1.09

 

The Mystic Ring is holding a workshop and dealer dem on Thursday, February 5th. The first half of the evening will feature the workshop, and the second a dealer dem by Magicmart.co.uk. The club meets at The Conservative Club, 49 High Street North, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU6 1JE (Map) and the evening will start at 7.45pm. Visiting magicians welcome, admission free. Contact Steve Milroy themysticring@hotmail.com for more info. 31.1.09

 

Order of The Magi - Jumbo Auction. The Order of The Magi is holding a Jumbo Auction on Tuesday 10th February at The Irish World Heritage Centre, Queens Road, Manchester M8 8UF (Map) At 7.30pm prompt, with viewing from 6.30pm. Lot numbers are now available so if you need one please contact Ian Ball MMC Entertainments Officer on 01457 835990 or email ents@orderofthemagi.org.uk. For more info visit www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. Door charge £3.00. 31.1.09

 

The Wizard of Castle Magic. As part of The Order of The Magi’s Centenary Celebrations the society has booked “The Wizard of Castle Magic” at The Met Market Street, Bury, Greater Manchester on Saturday 28th March at 2pm. This is a very funny, spooky play for 5 to 11 year olds featuring Jon Marshall of Magic Carpet Theatre. All tickets are £6.00 from the box office on 0161 761 2216. Further details: www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. 31.1.09

 

Magic Sale - Cardiff. The Cardiff Magical Society will be having a Table Top Sale at the Cardiff Yacht Club, Windsor Esplanade, Cardiff CF10 5BG (Map) on Sunday, 8th February from 11am - 4pm. Stephen Tucker and Adrian Sullivan will have tables, and will present dealer dems and lectures during the day. Tables currently still available. www.cardiffmagic.org.uk. 31.1.09

 

Magic Moments for half-term! Two of the county's most experienced and popular children's entertainers are joining forces to present a family magic and fun show during the February half-term. Royston the Magician and Steve the Magician have joined forces to present 'Magic Moments' an entertainment jam-packed with magic, laughter and fun with audience participation, games, sing-alongs and puppets. Venue: Lings Forum Cinema, Lings Forum, Weston Favell Centre, Northampton. Wednesday 18th February and Thursday 19th February at 11am. Tickets £5.00. Box Office: 01604 409010, TicketWeb: 08444 77 1000 or via www.ticketweb.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

The Magic Car Boot Sale at West Bromwich is set to be a bumper one with 28 stalls booked, including many dealers. Keith Bennett (photo) has just announced that he will be having major shop stock clearance as he re-invents his business, and John Palfreyman will have quite a selection of items including some collectables. No more stall space is now available. Sunday 8th February 2009. 43 Union Street West Bromwich B70 6BP (Map). Admission from 9.30am (£4.00). See www.albionmagiccompany.co.uk for details. 31.1.09

 

Barry's Big Brother. Last Monday Stephen Barry performed at the Celebrity Big Brother aftershow party, and is seen here with the eventual winner Ulrika Jonsson. www.stephenbarry.co.uk. 31.1.09

 

Bristol's Illusions Magic Bar continues to go from strength to strength. Owner Mark Bennett has just added a video to the website, Click Here • "Student's magic show - on video" Click Here • "You'll like this - a lot!" Click Here • "Magic in the air at magicians' party" Click Here • "Are they MAG1C or N4FF? Roll up for the auction where over £100,000 is bid for a cherished number plate" Click Here • "Stuntman hurt on Harry Potter film set" Click Here • "Casinos slap ban on magic memory man Keith" Click Here • "Psychological illusionist Derren Brown appears with psychic medium Joe Power" Click Here • Another busy week. Many thanks for your news submissions which are always welcomed. See you next week, Duncan. 31.1.09

 

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