Number 768 - 14th March 2015

 

Killer Magic, BBC 3's new magic series launches on Tuesday 24th March. Dee Christopher, Chris Cox, Jasz Vegas, Damien O'Brien and Ben Hart compete in themed challenges, with the least successful illusionist being nominated to try their hand at a 'killer trick' - a death-defying challenge that has killed or injured a past performer. BBC Radio One presenter Matt Edmondson will narrate. In the opening episode the magicians combine magic with toys, with the loser facing being submerged in ice. See TV Magic. 14.3.15

 

The Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year Competition. Tickets are now on sale for the Final of The Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year Competition which takes place on Sunday 29th March at 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London NW1 2HD (Map). Seven acts are through from the heats, competing for this prestigious title in The Magic Circle theatre. There is an afternoon show at 3pm, (which isn't judged), for which tickets are available at £8 and the Final itself, at 6pm, when the judging takes place and the results are announced. Tickets for the Final are £15. The judges will be well known names from the magic world, including former Young Magician of the Year competitors, and the Final will be compered by a past winner of the title. To book tickets Click Here. Alan Maskell. 14.3.15

 

The International Magic Convention, a staple of the UK magic scene, and central London's only magic Convention is disappearing.... but not for long! "After 43 years anyone would need a holiday" says Noel Britten, "but like after any break one always comes back bigger, better and more revitalised - and with that in mind we can promise a really outstanding event in 2016 with the Convention dates being November 18th to 20th next year. As always we'll be bringing not only well established stars of magic but many new faces to the Convention to join outstanding speciality acts for our Gala Show. Lectures, workshops, one man shows and the sort of very special events - who can forget David Williamson re meeting his nemesis 'Murray' (Click Here) or the myriad of surprises produced in the awarding of the David Berglas International Magic Award over the last several years - that we've become known for joining the mix. If there was any year when we were going to take a break it seems this is an obvious one with three 'intermittent' international Conventions - FISM, Genii Bash 2 and Magic Live all overlapping this year. An extra year of planning not only allows us to create something extra special for 2016 but also update our registration process and other admin areas to make it an all round easy experience to both register and attend. While we have plans to change in no way will this affect the very intimate and family feel of this much-loved Convention, which both through bookings and the annual Close Up Competition has introduced so many national and international stars of our art to UK magicians for the very first time. If you would like to join those lucky people to get first hand news of next year's events alongside the chance to register early and get prime location seats and access to other special events, please feel free to email me at noelbritten@talk21.com and I'll make sure you're kept very much in the loop." 14.3.15

 

Conjuring at the Court, London: "There's another cracking night of magic coming up at Conjuring at the Court. Christian Lee is one of London’s best known comedy magicians, with a terrific ability to create chaotic fun; Martin Cox’s persona is larger than life - he’s a clever entertainer in demand all over the world for his magic and comedy; The award-winning Rob James, an imaginative and original magician who has performed on BBC2, Channel 4, Five and worldwide on BBC America; Marc Paul is one of the top mind-readers in the country - a dramatic entertainer whose skill in psychology and mind control leave the audience astounded. Hosted by co-producer, the exuberant Stephen Barry. A night of magic, comedy and entertainment." 26th March. The show starts at 8pm and runs to 10pm with an interval. Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing, London W13 8PH (Map). Book now on www.conjuringatthecourt.com – tickets still just £10 each. Now on TripAdvisor so you can read or leave reviews. "The best magic show in London!" Mel Mellers. 14.3.15

 

Magic Night at The Shadow Lounge, (opposite former venue Madame JoJo’s) in the heart of London, starring Doug Segal, Oliver Meech, Delores Deluxe, Jack Charlie Beavis and MC Neil Henry. "Magic Night plays with your mind with some stunning mental trickery from Doug Segal, one of the leading mentalists in the country who is also screamingly funny. He’ll be making mentalists of us all with his impressive mind control, whilst Oliver Meech will be stopping water in its tracks and defying the laws of gravity. Delores Deluxe will be showing you her impressive tricky proclivities with bananas and shoes, plus Jack Beavis’s impossibly clever and ridiculous clown like magic with props that don’t do quite what they should... Neil Henry will MC the show and perform his impossible magic. Magic Night @The Shadow Lounge. Friday 3rd April. Doors open 6.45pm; Show starts at 7.30pm; Tickets £13.20; Show ticket plus dinner £27.50; Tickets: www.magicnight.co.uk. The Shadow Lounge, 5 Brewer Street, London W1F 0RF (Map). 14.3.15

 

Northern Magic Circle Convention updates. From the organisers: Two more names have been added to the line up for this year's Northern Magic Circle Convention. Andrew Normansell has been well established as an entertainer, magician and mentalist for over twenty five years, and has performed extensively both in the UK and abroad. Andrew has authored many books on the subjects of magic and mind reading and is also well respected as a lecturer and motivational speaker. Andrew is also the inventor of a number of commercial hits, including Jinx, Club Sandwich, Zen Coin Collection, Collector's Edition, Hades' Pennies, as well as DVD Collections, all available worldwide. Shirley Ray is a world class Balloon Artist and International instructor. Shirley has taught at many balloon conventions and twisting events around the world and runs her own UK based business “Balloons by Magic”. Her work has been featured on television and has also appeared in both the Balloon Magic and Balloon Images magazines. The Northern Magic Circle Convention is on 11th and 12th April 2015 at Harrogate Theatre, Oxford Street, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1QF (Map). Tickets available from www.northernmagiccircle.org.uk or email sujayne@live.co.uk Book in advance and save money on your convention registration! 14.3.15

 

West End Magic, Leicester Square Theatre, London, 21st March: "The brilliant West End Magic show returns this March to Leicester Square Theatre with comedy, magic and some nail biting stunts. Ben Hart, star of BBC 3's 'Killer Magic' and smash hit of Edinburgh 2014 brings his incredible magic to the show, weaving stories with breathtaking tricks that are mesmerising. We have the nail biting, sweat inducing AJ with his super sharpened knives, endangering his limbs and the front row in acts of sheer entertaining madness. Multi award winning magician Oliver Tabor will perform his extraordinary illusions, where objects change form and shape in a dazzling display of magic that might leave you wondering whether reality really can be bent and manipulated in this man's hands. Suitable for all the family and for ages 8+" March 21st 2015. The Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, London WC2H 7BX (Map). Doors 3pm; Show 3.30pm; Tickets £15 full price, £10 children, £40 family ticket for four. www.leicestersquaretheatre.com www.westendmagic.com. 14.3.15

 

Chris Hare's Mindboggler lecture at the Coventry Magic Circle. James Cannon writes: The Coventry Magic Circle are delighted to welcome Chris Hare to our society on Tuesday 24th March from 8pm - 10pm. Chris is a brilliant mind reader and entertainer and this  promises to be a lecture not to be missed. £10 entrance fee for visiting magicians. Venue: Bentley Road Social Club, Bentley Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5LR (Map) www.coventrymagiccircle.co.uk. 14.3.15

 

12th Top Secret Day of Magic. From the organisers: Mark James has been confirmed as the final lecturer, who will be lecturing on Cabaret/Comedy and Cruising. He will also be appearing in the Star Comedy Cabaret and appearing in the Q+A Forum. Also confirmed: Mel Harvey who will be compering the Star Comedy Cabaret, and Michael Pearse - the laugh till it hurts Juggler - also appearing in the Star Comedy Cabaret. Don't miss this great magic-packed day! The website is now live: www.topsecretmagicday.co.uk. 14.3.15

 

New, from Mark Leveridge Magic: Imagine being able to borrow a 10p coin and holding it at your fingertips, simply pass a selected card momentarily across it, and instantly that coin becoming completely invisible. Both hands are empty, the coin just appears to have melted away. Then showing the card back and front once more, it is passed across the fingers a second time and immediately the borrowed coin is back in position and can be returned to its owner. This is the effect of Mark Leveridge's latest coin release. Called The Invisible Coin it comes with instructional DVD and the special card required. No sleight of hand involved, the illusion really is great! Watch a dem at www.markleveridge.co.uk/invcn.php. 14.3.15

 

Stay Cool by Tobias Dostal! "You spend 5 days at a Magic Convention and the thing you remember most at the end of it is not that new variation of a classic pass - it’s the guy who produces a pair of sunglasses on his face and yells ‘Whooooooooo! Stay Cool Baby!’ In 'Stay Cool' Tobias Dostal has created the ultimate opener. A Sunglasses production that instantly establishes you as a magician, and the sheer unexpected nature of something so absurd breaks any sort of tension held by spectators instantly. Tobias spends nearly an hour teaching variation after variation for the Stay Cool production, with inspiration taken from classic comic legends - everyone from Buster Keaton to Marcel Marceau. Filmed in the Ellusionist HQ Brooklyn Studio with live performances shot during the Open-to-the-Public Studio Party, Stay Cool contains everything you need to absolutely own any room you walk into." Watch the video and find out more, visit www.magicnevin.com/Stay-Cool-by-Tobias-Dostal. 14.3.15

 

Marc Oberon North Western Society of Magicians Lecture. Adam Hudson writes: We are currently celebrating our centenary year and one of many events we are holding to mark such an important part of our history is a lecture by Marc Oberon. The lecture is on Wednesday 18th March at The Lisdoonie Hotel, Abbey Road (no Beatles but a few zebra crossings) Barrow-in-Furness from 7.30pm - 10pm. Any visiting magicians would be warmly welcomed at the slim charge of £5. More info: www.barrowmagic.co.uk. 14.3.15

 

David Tomkins Lecture - The Anglian Magic Society. Steve Majes writes: The Anglian Magic Society has "The David Tomkins Lecture" for their next meeting on Tuesday 17th March 2015 - 7.30pm start time. David is an award winning Children's Ventriloquist and Magician, and will be presenting a colourful, varied and entertaining lecture with original and creative children's magic. As a professional ventriloquist, David will include a section on puppets too. Having turned full-time pro at sixteen David has a wealth of experience and plenty of entertaining routines to share. David has had great success with his lectures and has traveled all over the country and presented lectures to The Magic Circle, The International Brotherhood of Magicians along with the Southport and The Blackpool Magicians' Conventions. This lecture is a must for the serious family entertainer! Members £2.00 - Visitors £10.00. Visitors must be introduced by a full member of the society. The White Horse Inn, The Street, Trowse, Norwich NR14 8ST (Map). 14.3.15

 

Magic & Mayhem - A Night of Magic at The Exchange, Leicester. Phil Knoxville and An Evening of Mystery Presents: Magic & Mayhem - A Night of Magic at The Exchange, Leicester, on Thursday 9th April: "Bringing you the UK’s top magic acts: 'The Hypnotist' Anthony Jacquin (Head Hacking, The Manchurian Approach) will be bending minds with non-hypnosis hypnosis (no hypnosis required!); ‘The Detective’ Ben Cardall (Sherlockian) will reveal your inner thoughts and the contents of your pocket; ‘The Empathist’ Ian Harvey-Stone (The Devil Without) will read your mind and tickle your funny bones. Compered by ‘The Comedian’ Phil Knoxville, who promises to make you laugh one minute, then wince and grimace at his tricks the next. Come join us for a night of Amazing Stunts, Mind Reading, Stand up Comedy, Close up magic and Magic That Isn’t Sh*t!" For more info visit: facebook.com/philknoxvillemagic or facebook.com/aneveningofmysteryuk. Suitable for ages 16+. ‘Magic & Mayhem’, The Exchange, Cultural Quarter, 50 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1RD (Map). Doors open at 7.30pm - Free entry! 14.3.15

 

The Shropshire Magical Society will be hosting a lecture by Cody S Fisher (USA) on Wednesday 25th March at 7.30pm at the Lord Hill Hotel, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury SY2 6AX (Map). Visiting Magicians are very welcome to attend. Door charge only £5! Contact Mel Bardsley mel.bardsley@btinternet.com. 14.3.15

 

A Laugh A Minute Lecture - with Harry Robson, now booking. "Harry Robson is one of the UK's busiest and most loved magicians. Over the past thirty years he has given countless lectures on how to become a better magician, what tricks to use and how to get bookings. In his lecture he'll also tell some of the funniest stories he's been part of, along the way. To book Harry for your club lecture simply visit www.harryrobsonmagicshop.com/lecture and watch the video or call Harry directly to check availability on 07745 905500. 14.3.15

 

Jamie Allan iMagician - now on tour. "In this action packed show, audiences will witness the most incredible illusions ever staged. Using the latest technology, iMagician includes high powered laser beams, iPads, Twitter, Facebook, and new for our 2015 show, the mind blowing 'Virtual assistant' a routine which involves a full scale volumetric hologram. After mesmerising American audiences for 12 years with his fusion of magic and technology, Jamie is now set to launch a spectacular UK tour - iMagician: The Evolution of Magic." See What's On for dates or visit www.magicjamie.com. 14.3.15

 

Luke Murray: Mentalist - Canal Cafe Theatre, London: "Be prepared for a theatrical roller-coaster ride as master magician Luke Murray brings his new one-man show to London. The Award-Winning Mentalist will provoke, astound, baffle and amaze. Impossible predictions, devious divination and mesmerising metal melting are just a selection of what you can expect this psychological illusionist to display in this new one-hour show. Once a stand-up comedian and compere, this show will also leave you in hysterics, as Luke Murray combines his unique brand of comedy and mentalism. ‘I can’t wait to bring my new show to London’ says Murray, 29. ‘I have been honing my skills since I was 9 years old and I’m so excited to be finally demonstrating them in such a variety of different ways. My Job is to astound, and I plan to succeed.’" 16+ Canal Cafe Theatre, Delamere Terrace, Little Venice, London W2 6ND (Map). 7.30pm on 25th April and 20th May, see www.canalcafetheatre.com. 14.3.15

 

Ian Rowland lectures at the Wolverhampton Circle of Magicians on Wednesday 25th of March. Sue Oakley writes: Ian has lectured and performed at more or less every major convention you can name (four times at Blackpool and twice at Magic Live!), his 'Penguin Live' lecture has a 5 star rating, and he has his own monthly column in both the Magic Circular and Magic magazine. Ian will be performing and teaching a wide range of card and mentalism effects, suitable for stage or close-up, and he promises that even if you don't like the tricks, the lecture will be good fun. "An evening of sheer fun and enjoyment" Ulster Society of Magicians. 8pm on Wednesday 25th of March, non-members welcome for a fee of £5 at ECC Sports & Social Club, Showell Road, Wolverhampton WV10 9LU (Map). 14.3.15

 

Doc Eason lecture - Liverpool Magic Circle, Wednesday 6th May at 7.30pm. Visitors £10, Full Members £5. www.liverpoolmagiccircle.co.uk. Venue: Longmoor Social Club, Longmoor Lane, Liverpool L9 9EB (Map). Richard Smith, secretary. 14.3.15

 

The Devil's Staircase by Greg Chapman. AJT Playing Cards write: Following on from the successful launch of AJT Playing Cards, we are now starting to stock a number of card guards and card magic books. We received stock of Greg Chapman's The Devil's Staircase on Monday and by Tuesday evening it had completely sold out! We are hoping to receive more in the next few weeks and would request anyone who is interested in this book to email to register their interest. The cost of the book is £37.00 posted. Please contact info@ajtplayingcards.co.uk or visit www.ajtplayingcards.co.uk. 14.3.15

 

Wolverhampton Winner. Sue Oakley writes: On Wednesday 11th March, The Wolverhampton Circle of Magicians, held their annual close up competition for The Tom Laws Plate. The competition was of a very high standard, with 7 competitors and the worthy winner was Paul Pickford. www.wcm-magic.co.uk. 14.3.15

 

Variety Live at Thwaites Empire, Blackburn is reviewed on YouTube by Matt & Tom this week: "...it was an excellent showcase of some of the country's top working variety acts and well worth the journey. We've put together a short video review, Click Here." 14.3.15

 

David Ginn's Kids Biz Workshop - Manchester: "Saturday 18th April 10am-3pm, Milnrow, Greater Manchester. 5 minutes from Jct 21 of the M62 and just 40 minutes by Metro from Manchester Victoria. Find out why this much loved entertainer's diary is always full. Invaluable advice for any children’s entertainer. Includes a free booklet and 3 free tricks. Limited places for this workshop. Book early via www.missionmagic.co.uk." Also see What's On for magic club lecture tour dates, April 8th-20th. 14.3.15

 

Two-day Balloon Care and Share Day, Leeds. Graham Lee writes: There is another Two-day Balloon Care and Share Day taking place in Leeds on March 25/26th with International balloon twister Pieter van Engen coming over from Holland to run one of the days and Rhian Beynon from the UK. Both days are hands-on lecture workshops, with a fun competition or two to take part in if you wish, with a few prizes to win along the way! There is a special offer available if you book for both days www.qualatexballoons.co.uk. The Balloon Chat forum has many hints and tips on the best pumps, busking bags, pens etc. to use, plus star interviews with the likes of Buster Balloon, Ken Stillman and David Brenion all answering questions from the forum members. There are also detailed instructions in text and photographs on making some of the latest models and figures in the balloon world. 14.3.15

 

Allan Clarke lecture - The Cumbrian Magic Circle. Andrew Haggar writes: The Cumbrian Magic Circle meeting this month will be next Tuesday, 17th March when we have a lecture by Allan Clarke. Allen is a member of Fylde Mystics, The Modern Mystics League and for a number of years co-organised the convention for the Northern Magic Circle. As suggested by the title "Modifications & Meanderings", Allan's interest is in adapting routines so that they fit the style and personality of the performer. Details of location etc. on our website www.cumbrianmagiccircle.co.uk. Look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday. As always doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. 14.3.15

 

Book a magic lecturer for your club today! Visit the MagicWeek Lecturers section. 14.3.15

 

"Derren Brown brings his new show Miracle to Dartford's Orchard Theatre" Click Here • Jay Palmer’s bar act and Magic Kettle routine - request for help, Click Here • Count Arthur Strong does the cups and balls Click Here • "Magician Paul Daniels joins in glovie-mania" Click Here • "Magical masters set to debut UK's biggest show" Click Here • "In pursuit of magic" Click Here • "Interview: Penn Jillette" Click Here • "Troy Von Scheibner talks E4’s Troy: 'I won’t do it unless it’s perfect'" Click Here • "Magic on his mind" Click Here • "Living the dream - Grand Illusionist Cosentino brings Twisted Reality to Sydney" Click Here • Gary Jones' recent Farnborough Association of Magical Entertainers lecture is reviewed by Phil Sweeting this week, Click Here • "Disney's Frozen is the inspiration for nine-year-old magician's snow show" Click Here • "Keith Barry: 'Morgan Freeman demanded me to read his mind'" Click Here • That's if for another week - your UK magic news is always welcome, have a great week, Duncan. 14.3.15

 

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