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The IBM British Ring Convention, Eastbourne 2015
Reported by Geoffrey Newton PRO
The
IBM British Ring convention was held in Eastbourne last week, where hundreds of
delegates enjoyed a few days at this very sunny south coast resort. The new
president is Paul Ray (Photo) who will be hosting his official dinner on 19th
March 2016 at the Lord Hill Hotel in Shrewsbury and further details will be
available soon.
The whole convention was conveniently situated within the Congress
Theatre/Winter Garden complex and hosted some excellent shows and lectures. In
addition to these we now have an increasing number of workshops; this year
including balloons, juggling and card magic. Mini dealer dems took place in the
Dealers’ Hall throughout the convention. Sadly, our president, at the time Alan
Astra, was unable to attend due to ill health but we wish him a speedy recovery
and look forward to his and Barbara’s company at future events. Immediate past
president (at the time) Neil Roberts stood in at the last moment for the
installation of the new president, as the show must go on.
The opening show with High Jinx featured Michael Jordan really on form and the
History of Mystery together with a show from Sussex Magic Circle, all in one
day, certainly gave the convention the buzz that was vibrant throughout.
The Sooty and Gala shows appeared to have the greatest public support that I
have known in recent times which to me clearly demonstrates the little golden
bear is as popular as ever and interest in magic is, generally speaking, high at
the moment. The lectures were excellent; just the right length and covering a
variety of subjects.
The Close-up competition was won by Rob James with the comedy award going to Mel
Harvey (the first time this had been awarded for close-up). Bernard Jones won
the Ali Bongo Micro Marathon and Brian Berry (for Peter Diamond) the dealers’
trophy for the most attractive stand.
Christian Lee hosted the Friday late night burlesque entertainment and was
brilliant, although the Fan Dancer in the Folly Mixtures may have
literally ruffled a few feathers. It was tastefully done, nothing offensive, fun
and above all accepted in the spirit in which it was intended. Modern
entertainment has arrived!
The friendships reunited and new ones made are a very important part of any
gathering and this certainly was a harmonious four days for everyone to enjoy.
Next year The British Ring returns to Buxton from 8th – 11th September and
details will appear as further information comes to hand.
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In May this year the 80 year old society magazine known as The Budget was
renamed Key Ring and now has 16 of its 32 pages in colour. There have
been many kind comments about the publication’s new format. Why don’t you see
for yourself by joining The British Ring? Details are on