Number 450 - 7th February 2009

 

Ali Bongo. You will no doubt be aware that as the result of a stroke Ali Bongo, President of The Magic Circle, is recovering in a hospital in France. He is in a stable condition and if this is sustained may be repatriated to a London hospital in a few days. I will keep you informed of his progress.

Jack Delvin, Vice President and PRO of The Magic Circle. 7.2.09

 

Bucking the trend. Dan and Dave Buck have been at the forefront of their craft since they were only 14 years old. They have helped mold a new genre of card magic that is both visually rich and direct. Their style and originality has received acclaim from such magic stars as David Blaine and David Copperfield. When they were only 17 years old they performed alongside Guy Hollingworh, Paul Gertner, Chad Long and Bill Malone at the first MAGIC Live convention in Las Vegas, and were the only performers to receive a standing ovation. They were among the first to start a movement with card flourishes with the release of The Dan and Dave System in 2004. The flourishes of this DVD would later inspire a Cingular commercial for the Samsung Blackjack phone. When they were only 18, they appeared on the cover of Genii magazine. In 2006, they were the magic consultants on the movie Smokin' Aces, where Dave hand doubled for Jeremy Piven. Their work is simply stunning. See them at the World's Largest Magic Convention, the Blackpool Convention, in just two weeks time in what looks set to be another record-breaking three days of magic. Visit www.blackpoolmagic.com for a registration form and convention programme. 7.2.09

 

Jeff McBride's Secret Session - A 4 Hour Master Class Workshop. Spend 4 inspiring hours studying magic with one of the most influential magicians of the 20th century. Tuesday 17th February, Wednesday 18th February and Thursday 19th February. Each day features a different workshop. Any single day is £125.00. All three days for £300.00. All days run from 1pm to 5pm. Credit cards accepted. Contact: Arthur Casson on 01253 393688 email: arthurcasson@aol.com. 7.2.09

 

Paul Daniels - live on stage tonight! Paul Daniels stars Musical Magic - an evening of music, magic, dancing and special effects - at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre at 7.30pm tonight. See What's On for tour dates. On Friday Paul is Dave Gorman's guest, on the Radio 7 show Genius. "Dave Gorman asks Paul Daniels to decide which listener's loopy idea is the best, including the introduction of a new 99p coin!" See TV Magic for TV and radio listings. "Debbie McGee proves she really is as fit as Madonna" Click Here. 7.2.09

 

Performers Workshop. Jeff Hobson, Charlie Frye, Rob Torres, and Wally Eastwood are presenting a one-off Performers Workshop in the Studio at the Grand Theatre on Friday 20th February from 1pm - 3pm. All these are performers are appearing in the 'Variety Live at the Grand' Shows (below). The Workshop will include performance, anecdotes, advice and a short Q&A session. It promises to be an excellent event. Numbers are limited to a maximum of 100 people. The cost is £10.00 per ticket, via the Grand Theatre Box Office or online: www.showzam.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

Wilson Bonker's Lucky Golden Ticket! News from the Northern Magic Circle convention: It's not Willy Wonka's, it's Wilson Bonker's Lucky Golden Ticket. If you are bonkers about Gregory Wilson and pre-register for the Northern Magic Circle convention before the end of March then you'll be invited to select a free chocolate bar from the convention registration desk. Some will contain a "Lucky Golden Ticket" for free admission to a limited number Master Class taught by Gregory Wilson. The Master Class tickets are only available via the Lucky Golden Ticket draw. The free specially compiled Gregory Wilson DVD offer (featuring loads of performances and a few explanations!) has been extended to all who pre-register before the end of February. www.northernmagiccircle.org.uk. 7.2.09

 

Variety Live at the Grand boasts a truly international line-up of talent including Jeff Hobson and his unique brand of comedy laced with a touch of magic, from Cirque du Soleil the artistry and athleticism of Wolfgang on the German Wheel, the incredible Mazeppa Cossacks from the Ukraine, the endearing physical comedy of Rob Torres, the international award-winning Vaudevillian Charlie Frye & Co., new singing star Ben Stone, and the ‘man with the fastest hands on earth’ and one of the greatest entertainers currently appearing in Las Vegas, Wally Eastwood. With music from the superb 9-piece 'Variety Live Orchestra' - under the direction of Musical Director, Ian MacGregor. Thursday 19th February and Friday 20th February at 7.30pm, and at 2pm and 7pm on Saturday 21st February. Tickets: Adults £17.00, Children £8.00. Box Office: 01253 290190 or visit The Grand Theatre Box Office, 33 Church Street, Blackpool or visit www.showzam.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

Woody Allen is 'The Great Splendini' in Scoop, tonight at 10.45pm on BBC 2. Starring Scarlett Johansson, Hugh Jackman, Woody Allen and Ian McShane. "Scarlett Johansson and Hugh Jackman star in this hilariously twisted tale of murder and mystery. When an inquisitive college journalist (Johansson) stumbles upon new clues to a string of murders, her investigation leads directly to a handsome businessman (Jackman), who draws her in with his mysterious charm. Could a whirlwind romance with the subject of her search also become the most dangerous scoop of a lifetime?" See TV Magic. 7.2.09

 

Another Magical Evening in May. Following last year's hugely successful "A Magical Evening in May", the team are back. Stephen Williams is presenting "Another Magical Evening in May" at 7pm on Thursday 21st May at Southport Arts Centre, Lord Street, Southport PR8 1DB (Map). The show will be raising funds for CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). Click Here for details. "Another Magical Evening in May" will bring fun, laughter and magic to all. With International Performers providing amazing acts, this variety show will grip the attention of children and adults alike. Produced by Big Hands Management and Goldielle Promotions. To book call the Southport Arts Centre box office on 01704 540011. Adults £10.00, under 16's and concessions £7.50. 7.2.09

 

Blackpool & Fylde Mystics Auction. The Blackpool & Fylde Mystics are holding their annual auction on Tuesday 3rd March commencing at 7.30pm at the Frank Townend Centre, Kensington Road, Cleveleys (near Blackpool). Admission for non-members is £3.00. There are a number of magical lots along with some very exclusive items which have been donated by some stars of magic including a signed picture and tour programme from Derren Brown; a signed picture of Paul Zenon; a signed picture of the Great Soprendo together with a rare Great Soprendo certificate of which there are only 3 in circulation (also signed); a signed book from Mac King together with a signed mac raincoat which Mac King has used in his Las Vegas show, plus many other items. To submit a lot, or for more information, contact Alan Mylecraine info@fyldemystics.co.uk. www.fyldemystics.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

Magicbox are now shipping the "True Astonishment" boxed sets. "This 9 disc boxed set is sure to go down in magic history as the greatest release ever! Visit www.magicbox.uk.com for further details. These are limited in availability so act fast to save disappointment!" 7.2.09

 

Leslie Melville lectures for the Leeds Magical Association at 7.30pm on Tuesday February 24th. "Master story-teller and the author of 'Magictales'. Demonstrates how stories and standard magical props can be woven together for maximum effect. A fascinating evening from an original thinker." (£5.00 door charge for non members) at The Quaker Meeting House, 188 Woodhouse Lane (next to The Eldon pub), Leeds LS2 9DX (Map) Contact Graham Roe 01943 465203 grahamroe@talktalk.net for more information. www.leedsmagic.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

He's a cheeky boy... Chris Dugdale tells us that "life became complete" last week when he entertained the Cheeky Girls at a party at the Grosvenor House hotel in London. Joking aside, Chris said that the girls were lovely, and were blown away by the magic! www.chrisdugdale.com  7.2.09

 

Dan and Dave Buck are presenting their lecture for International Magic on Tuesday 24th February at International's usual venue - 2nd floor 'Casa Italiana', 136 Clerkenwell Road, London EC1R 5DL (Map). Email or phone Martin MacMillan martin@internationalmagic.com or 020 7405 7324 if you would like to attend. 7.15pm for a prompt 7.30pm start. Finishes at around 10pm. £10.00 per person. 7.2.09

 

New Releases for 2009! Mark Leveridge Magic is pleased to announce the arrival of a small but select range of new products. Unavoidable Destiny, Ring On Glasses, The Wish List and Perfect Intuition are all solid effects for commercial close-up workers and full details and online video dems are available from the Mark Leveridge Magic website. Also available is a fantastic new download which features all the material from the complete range of books released for each of the nine British Close Up Magic Symposium conventions. The Symposium Collection has over 300 pages comprising of more than 100 routines, ideas and articles from a huge range of international close-up stars - it's a veritable feast of instruction from some of the best minds around! Available for instant download now from www.markleveridge.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

Mobile Magic. While the country was at a virtual standstill last week, a top group of magicians braved Bristol's snow on Tuesday, for Samsung Mobile Phones. Paul Martin, Max Somerset, Paul Roffman, and Darryl Rose warmed up Samsung's delegates, with their magic. The attendees soon thawed out after the highly entertaining team made phones appear and disappear during the night! The only thing that didn't melt was the Giant Samsung Ice Sculpture! 7.2.09

 

Poz will be presenting his lecture "Poz-ology for the 21st Century" at the Sussex Magic Circle at 8pm on Thursday February 12th at The Hassocks Hotel (On the car park of the Hassocks train station), Hassocks, West Sussex BN6 8HN (Map). Visit www.sussexmagiccircle.co.uk for more information. 7.2.09

 

Congratulations to Magic Dave (Dave Allen), the first entertainer to be awarded the new title of Southern England Magic Convention 'British Isles Children's Entertainer of the Year' 2009. Dave competed against five finalists at the Southern England Magic Convention last Saturday. The competition was judged by the audience. Dave's high energy ventriloquist act, with a super-hero cow called Daisy, included a silk colouring routine and the levitation of a child from the audience. Dave was awarded the title, a trophy, and a trip to Las Vagas www.daveallenmagic.com. Congratulations also to Close-up Competition winner David Taylor, who also won a title, a trophy, and a trip to Las Vagas. 7.2.09

 

Spotlight on Carey DVD - just released. John Carey emails: "16 practical card and coin effects for the real world. No pipe dreams, just hard hitting material ranging from very easy to advanced level. Contents include: Triple Impurseination, Mister Biddle Takes a Breather, Counting On You, Overhand Shuffle Peek Control, Six Card Oil and Water, One Coin Routine, Inspired by Pierce CTP, Summer of ‘76, Whispering Queen, Simple Copper Silver, Culling and Applications, Simple Sequence, Slo-Mo Collectors, Face up CAAN, Floating Ambitious Card Handling Variation and Thought of Card Across. Plus two bonus effects in this 85 minute DVD with material I have been using for the past few years and have been featuring at my lectures." (Format: region free PAL) Price: £15.00 / $25.00 (includes delivery) via PayPal to this PayPal registered address: johncareymagic@googlemail.com - John also welcomes lecture enquiries to the same email address. 7.2.09

 

Marc Oberon lectures for the Leeds Magical Association at 7.30pm on Tuesday March 24th (£5.00 door charge for non members) at The Quaker Meeting House, 188 Woodhouse Lane (next to The Eldon pub), Leeds LS2 9DX (Map) Contact Graham Roe 01943 465203 grahamroe@talktalk.net for more information. Not to be missed! www.leedsmagic.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

TVMagic.co.uk are pleased to announce a number of exclusive new releases from Anthony Owen. These include the DVD of Anthony's acclaimed mentalism and close-up magic lecture at the 2007 International Magic convention, his Ultimate Oil and Water DVD (described by Derren Brown as "the cleanest [oil and water] you'll ever see"), an updated version of his Natural Lottery (described by Ian Rowland as "the perfect opening item for mentalists who love utterly impossible predictions with all the wrinkles ironed out") and his in-depth Secrets of TV Magic CD interview with Jay Fortune (number 2 in the Magic Interview Series). Also - while limited stocks last - they have a 4 for 3 deal on TVMagic's line of DVD releases. For more details and online video trailers visit www.tvmagic.co.uk. 7.2.09

 

Former British Ladies Magical Champion, Nikki Stapleford, and comedy magician Roy Charles have announced their engagement to be married. Roy popped the question underneath London's Big Ben. Nikki and Roy, who have known each other for more than twenty years through working on the same circuit, are really excited about their future together, and are thrilled to both share not just a love for one another but of magic too! They plan to marry next year when they can find time from their busy work schedules, and would like to thank all their friends in magic for the kind words and cards that they have received. 7.2.09

 

The Liverpool Magic Circle held their AGM on Thursday 5th February and Stephen Williams was unanimously voted in as the President Elect for 2010: "Stephen is only 14 years of age and already well known amongst magicians with many titles to his name: The Junior World General Magic Champion, The Liverpool Magic Circle Close up Winner of 2008-2009 and The Liverpool Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year. Now President 2010. I think this is a record - of which he will be the youngest ever president of any UK magic club! On behalf of the Liverpool Magic Circle I would like to congratulate Stephen with his new title, and wish him every success for the future." Alan Singleton (Past President). 7.2.09

 

The Nottingham Guild of Magicians are holding a Close-up Magic competition and Stage Magic competition on July 2nd at the Bonington Theatre, 161 Front Street, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 7EE (Map). Tickets are £3.00 each from Marcel: 01159 119698 or Andrew 01159 605844. 7.2.09

 

See-Saw Inductions: Stage, Street & Clinical Hypnosis Exposed 3 DVD set. From the makers: "Robert Temple is an award-winning magician and two-time Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year finalist, who at the age of 21 has travelled the world with his Comedy Stage Hypnosis Show. He was originally taught by controversial UK television and media hypnotist Dr. Jonathan Royle and they have now teamed up to bring you the ultimate 3 disc home study DVD training set to turn even the novice into a master of Stage, Street and Clinical Hypnosis with ease. Robert Temple also reveals numerous new, unique and powerful Instant Induction methods, and, for the first time on DVD, Royle reveals his true secrets of Street Hypnosis. Official release date is March 1st. Price £47.00. Special pre-order price: £30.00" Click Here for details. 7.2.09

 

Penn Jillette makes a guest appearance in Numbers on Friday 13th February, on Five on Friday 13th February. "Agents investigate the disappearance of an illusionist during a magic act. As details surrounding the case unfold, Don and his team are left wondering whether the magician's vanishing act is all that it seems." See TV Magic for details. 7.2.09

 

Harold Taylor. Harold Taylor's niece, Janet Stephenson, would love to hear from any magicians who knew Harold. She is collecting together photos, books, show bills etc to form a website. Email Janet Stephenson at my_uncl_h_taylor@btinternet.com (this is the correct email address, replacing an incorrect one which appeared two weeks ago). 7.2.09

 

Housing crisis? What housing crisis! Louis Trillo, inside his first igloo on Tuesday • "We Love... Sorcerer's Apprentice" Click Here • Graham Harper and D May review An Evening of Magic and Illusion, Nottingham, this week, Click Here • Jack Curtis has published a mind control experiment on the internet for all to see in conjunction with the launch of his new website: www.jackcurtis.co.uk • "A Magical Evening" Click Here • "Movie to 'Push' dubious psychic powers" Click Here • "Exclusive: Presto Director Doug Sweetland" Click Here • That's it for this week. Our very best wishes to Ali Bongo for a speedy recovery, Duncan. 7.2.09

 

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