ITV commissions single drama based on the life of Tommy Cooper. David Threlfall plays Tommy Cooper with Amanda Redman as his wife Dove. ITV confirmed on Thursday commission of a single film about the legendary Tommy Cooper, written by Simon Nye and produced by multi award-winning production company, Left Bank Pictures.

Simon Nye’s script focuses on the dilemma the much-loved magician faced when he fell in love with assistant Mary Kay and embarked upon a relationship that would last 17 years. Tommy was married to Gwen, whom he adored and affectionately nicknamed Dove. Tommy was unable to choose between Dove and Mary, and his untimely death live on air in 1984 meant that he never did. The late nights and post-show drinks were taking their toll on his health, and Dove tried to convince him that TV work was enough. But touring was where Tommy’s heart lay: “A miner goes down a mine, a stand up comedian stands on a stage and looks the audience in the eye.”

But Tommy found he couldn’t tour alone and asked stage manager Mary Kay if she would join him. Mary was gentle, diligent and good at her job. She would arrange his props and tricks, flash a warm smile and reassure an often-tense Tommy before he took to the stage. He needed someone to bolster his confidence and it was Mary’s loving support that made the difference to his performances. The pair fell in love, and just like that, Tommy became torn between two equally devoted women.

Filming will begin in London this June with former London Weekend Television Producer and award-winning magician, John Fisher, acting as a Consultant on the drama. John was a personal friend of Tommy Cooper’s and is the author of “Always Leave Them Laughing”, a definitive biography of the comedy legend’s life. Casting is still underway, but comedian Jason Manford is confirmed to play Ken Brooke.
25.5.13

 

Houdini, to tour from September 2013: "Houdini, a sharply written, dramatic, darkly comic new play about two of the greatest performers the world has ever known – the Houdini Brothers: stuntmen, illusionists, magicians – will premiere at Stoke on Trent Repertory Theatre on September 9th before touring the UK throughout September and October. Featuring a dynamic script, sharply drawn characters and breathtaking live stunts, ‘Houdini’ was written by BAFTA award-winning actor (‘Risen’) and filmmaker Stuart Brennan. Theatre Giant’s creative director Peter Snee will direct the production with a creative dream team that includes film and TV production designer Danny Rogers, costume designer Fraz Roughton, sound designer Daffyd Gough, and composer Tord Brudevoll. To be the greatest, you have to be prepared to sacrifice everything. Harry Houdini was the greatest performer who ever lived, but fame and fortune do not come free. For his brother Theo and his wife Bess, the price may have been too high. This intricate look inside the gripping life story of Houdini explores the devastation that is reaped by ambition, love and jealousy. Witness the birth of a star. Marvel at his death-defying feats. Prepare to be amazed. Discover the legend. Believe in the magic." Now booking: September 9th – 14th Stoke on Trent Repertory Theatre www.stokerep.org.uk; September 16th – 21st Blackpool Grand Theatre www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk; September 24th – 28th Swansea Grand Theatre www.swanseagrand.co.uk; September 30th - October 5th Theatre Royal Windsor www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk; October 7th – 12th Dublin Gaiety Theatre www.gaietytheatre.ie. 25.5.13

 

12 Again: Magicians Special is being repeated next Saturday at 4.30pm on CBBC: "Famous faces revisit the music and TV shows they loved and the big news stories that happened when they were kids. A cast of superstar magicians including Dynamo, Stephen Mulhern, Ben Hanlin, Dom Wood (with his friend Dick) and Help! My Supply Teacher is Magic stars Fergus Flanagan and Katherine demonstrate their first cool magic tricks, and share their memories from when they were 12. Step back in time and find out what first inspired them to become the mega magicians that they are today, what their favourite television shows were, what music they loved and what news stories had a big impact upon their lives." See TV Magic. 25.5.13

 

The Magic History Gathering @ The Magic Circle. A final reminder that on Saturday 1st June at The Centre for the Magic Arts, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London NW1 2HD, this annual event for all who are interested our magic heritage will take place, and to which non-members of The Magic Circle are warmly welcomed. It commences at 10am with coffee and a wide-ranging programme of topics with international contributors follows. Speakers include James Hagy and Richard Kaufman from the USA, together with Ian Keable, James Smith and Will Houstoun and there will be exhibitions of material relating to Professor Hoffmann and Philip Breslaw. Tickets cost £40 which includes coffee, lunch and afternoon tea, and can be purchased in advance from The Magic Circle at the above address. Telephone 0207387 2222 or email cma@themagiccircle.co.uk. Payment can be made by cheque payable to 'The Magic Circle' or by Visa or MasterCard. 25.5.13

 

James Freedman "The Man of Steal" popped up on the BBC World News last week, to talk about the recent rise in pickpocket crime. Of course, he couldn't resist a demonstration! You can see the report here: www.bbc.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Young & Strange: Magic, Illusion And A Hate For Each Other, Old Fire Station, George Street, Oxford OX1 2AQ (Map). 25th May, 5:45pm-6:30pm; 29th May, 5:45pm-6:30pm; 30th May, 7:15pm-8:00pm; 31st May, 7:15pm-8:00pm Tickets £8.00. Sold out in 2012, the illusionists return to The Old Fire Station with a brand new show suitable for all ages. Featuring spectacular stage illusions and intimate sleight of hand, the boys are back with their magic, unique blend of humour and a hate for each other! For more info and to book Click Here also see www.youngandstrange.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Van Buren & Gandey present The Victorian Wonders Carnival, a show of magic and time travel: "Making the impossible possible, the credible incredible, bringing the past to the present, but would Her Majesty be amused?" At the Brighton Fringe Festival 25th May - 1st June. Victoria Gardens Studio Big Top. Shows throughout the day. Tickets on the door or call 08717 058888. www.victorianwonders.com. 25.5.13

 

The Bristol Day of Magic with Scott Wells: "In case you missed the 2013 Bristol Day of Magic or if you were present and you would like to re-live some of the moments from the convention, then I think you will enjoy seeing some of the sights and sounds (two hour podcast) recorded throughout the day on The Magic Word. Visit: www.themagicwordpodcast.com. You can listen online or download the file through iTunes or as an MP3. If you enjoy this podcast, then you can always go into the archives to hear interviews with other magicians and podcasts from other conventions. Keep up to date by subscribing to this free podcast." 25.5.13

 

Danny Orleans UK Lecture tour now booking. Tour organiser Steve Gore writes: I am organising a magic lecture tour for Danny Orleans from Chicago. He is looking forward to an opportunity to do his children's magic lecture in the UK between 29th April and 10th May 2014. He recently released a 3 DVD set, "The Art of Presenting Magic to Children," that received wonderful reviews in all the major magazines; see www.dannyorleansmagic.com. He has lectured throughout the US and is booked for Kidabra in Tennessee, The Houdini Convention, and Magic in the Rockies. This is his first visit to the UK so it is a rare opportunity to book him. Email magic@stevegore.co.uk for more info and to book him. 25.5.13

 

The Devious Minds Show - Thorrington, featuring Tim Shoesmith and Dean Maudsley: From the organisers: Two great magicians in one magic evening. Devious Minds is a magic show with a difference. It is a blend of comedy magic and cutting edge mind reading, created by two energetic and creative members of The Magic Circle. Dean Maudsley, who uses psychology and trickery to find out what you are thinking, supported by TJ Shoesmith, an award-winning comedy magician who has performed all over the world. A show full of magical surprises and inspirational moments; come and watch the impossible happen in front of your very eyes. The show, hosted by The Magic Triangle, is open to the public, so bring along your family and friends. Admission £3.00. Call 01206 543969 to reserve seats. 7.30pm on Sunday 16th June at Thorrington Village Hall, Church Street, Thorrington CO8 7HQ (Map). www.deviousminds.co.uk www.themagictriangle.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Jon Allen UK Lecture tour now booking. Tour organiser Steve Gore writes: Top British magician Jon Allen is launching his new lecture tour of the UK. In the lecture, your members will not just learn the tricks and methods but also the reasoning and thinking behind why they are so effective. This invaluable advice and knowledge can be applied to any magic trick or routine they already perform. He has created some of the most universally acclaimed effects in recent years with Double Back, The Destination Box, The Pain Game, Flexion and The Silent Treatment. These effects are firmly established in the performing repertoires of magicians worldwide. Close-up magician Jon Allen is England's only World IBM Close-up Magic Champion, a Gold Star Member of The Inner Magic Circle and a natural entertainer. To see Jon's performance on 'Penn & Teller: Fool Us' Click Here. Jon has previously lectured at major magic conventions and clubs around the world. There are no set dates for the tour so please get in touch to secure your preferred date. Jon has appointed me his lecture tour agent. Please email magic@stevegore.co.uk with any queries you may have and I will reply by return. 25.5.13

 

Magicians at the Half Moon, London, Friday 31st May. Andy Clockwise writes: "Magicians at the Half Moon" has its second show on Friday 31st May featuring top magicians Ian Manly and Sean Heydon with compere Martin Cox. Last month's show was a sell-out, so please contact Martin (martin@comedyofmagic.co.uk) ASAP to reserve your tickets. For more information visit www.halfmoonmagic.co.uk and if you have 20 minute act and would like to be considered as a performer at "Magicians at the Half Moon", please let Martin know. 25.5.13

 

Last Saturday the Wolverhampton Circle of Magicians held their Annual Dinner at the Molineux. Sue Oakley writes: The excellent cabaret was provided by Lee Thompson and Steve Hewlett. A great night was had by all. President David Oakley awarded long service awards to: Philip Tate, Amin, Ron Popple, Donald Bevan and a 50 year award to Jon Marshall. Dave Pitt was awarded the President's Trophy, Chris Chambers was the winner of the Newcomers Trophy and Steve Evans collected trophies for Pocket Tricks, Close-up and Stage. He is the only person ever to have won all trophies in one year. Steve recently received the good news that his latest treatment has reduced the size of his tumour again, meaning that he will be with us for a little longer at least. With this in mind he continues to stay active, is all set for the IBM Convention in September, and continues to do lectures which are receiving rave reviews. His next lecture is at the Watford Associations of Magicians on 4th June. You can see Steve’s Lecturette at The Magic Circle on YouTube: Click Here. To contact Steve email: steveevans@themagiccircle.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Fylde Mystics Close-up Competition. Alan Mylecraine writes: The Fylde Mystics recently held their annual close-up competition to a capacity audience. The judging panel had a very tough job and commented that the competition was of the highest standard and judging had been difficult, they also commented that the standard has evidently derived from the Fylde Mystics being a 'performing society'. After considerable deliberation the winners were announced: 1st Place - Paul Joyce, 2nd Place - Allan Clarke, 3rd Place - Harry Moulding, Allan Clarke also secured the Best Card Trick award. For more details on The Fylde Mystics visit www.fyldemystics.co.uk. Pictured are the prize winners receiving their awards from Northern Magic Circle President, Dr Roger Woods. 25.5.13

 

The Card Collection Bank Holiday Sale is on right now - ending at 11am on Tuesday 28th May. There will be a discount of 10% on all orders with a goods value of £25.00 or more. Spend £40.00 or more and you'll get 15% off. Free UK mainland shipping still applies, providing that the goods total, after discount, is £50.00 or more. Don't miss out on the bargains! www.cards4magic.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Leamington and Warwick Magic Society Day of Magic. Mark Traversoni writes: The Leamington and Warwick Magic Society Day of Magic is fast approaching and is now over two days; the 18th and 19th of June. On the evening of the 18th there will be a dealer demonstration from Saturn Magic and a Mental Miracles Lecture from Mick McCreath. The following day will have lectures from Jamie Allan, Luke Jermay, Shane West (Zoobee) and James Brown (photo). There will also be a workshop from Mike Gancia. Early evening there's a show with Luke Jermay followed by the Midlands Champion of Champions Close-up Competition. Food will be provided from breakfast through to an evening BBQ all for the bargain price of £25.00. Full details including the list of dealers attending can be found on the club website: www.magicsociety.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Watford Association of Magicians Close-up Winners. Andy Clockwise reports: On Tuesday 21st May, The Watford Association of Magicians held their annual Close-Up Magician of the Year Competition. Mick Ramsden, Steve Rowe, Kurtis Whitehead, Chris Garside, Gary Schiffman and Lee Florida fought it out with six rounds of close-up magic, performing their acts three times each, to small groups of members and visitors; presenting a barrage of effects including a borrowed signed bank note appearing in a kiwi and a signed card appearing in a sealed bottle of J2O. Lee Florida walked away with the first prize plus the technical award. Second place went to Gary Schiffman and third to Chris Garside. Lee is pictured here with WAM Club Chairman Andy Clockwise. For more information on Lee, visit www.leeflorida.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Alakazam 20% Off Bank Holiday Weekend Offer Ends Tuesday 28th May at 9am. Visit www.alakazam.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Cards in a Bottle - the perfect gift: From the makers: "Imagine you have just finished performing at a wedding, party or corporate event and when you bid farewell to the bride, birthday boy or CEO of the company, you also present them with a unique keepsake that they will be talking about long after your departure. It is something they will never have seen before and unlikely to have been received when they booked 'that other magician' for last year’s Christmas party! This gift will guarantee you get asked back time and time again." Visit www.cardsinabottle.co.uk for details. 25.5.13

 

Enterteasement: Magic, Comedy, Burlesque. "Enterteasement is a monthly show featuring Comedy, Magic & Burlesque. The June show features 6 'As Seen on TV' acts including Woody The Magician, Vendetta Vain and Stu Who." Saturday, 8th June, 8pm - 10.30pm at The Admiral Bar, 72 Waterloo Street, Glasgow. www.enterteasement.com. 25.5.13

 

This bank holiday weekend, Danny and Annette of Amethyst will appear at the Floral Pavilion, New Brighton to perform with legendary comedian, Ken Dodd. With a new show for 2013, the duo return to the Floral Pavilion, the venue for their first ever performance with Ken back in 2008, marking their 5th year touring in the Ken Dodd Happiness Show. For more info see  www.amethyst-illusions.com or www.floralpavilion.com. 25.5.13

 

Congratulations to Magic Amit, winner of the Roy Johnson Shield Close-Up Competition for 2013. Members of the Leicester Magic Circle competed in front of an invited audience on Tuesday May 21st for the coveted trophy. Magic Amit fought off competitors with an array of "stunning visual card magic and comedy, which was based around well known TV Magician Paul Daniels." Magic Amit would also like to thank close friend Mozique for his help support. The competition was judged by lay judges and magical judge Chris Congreave. www.magicamit.com. 25.5.13

 

Chris Strickland and Andy Hurst visit the British Magical Society in Birmingham on Tuesday 28th May: "Not just a Dealer dem, but a chance to catch up on the latest in magic." 7.30pm on Tuesday 28th May at Selly Oak Ex Serviceman’s Club, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 7DL (Map). Non-members are invited to attend for a modest £5 fee. See www.britishmagicalsociety.co.uk for details. Paul Cadley. 25.5.13

 

UK Balloon Modeller of the Year Competition, sponsored by Qualatex and Playtime Balloons. From the Kidology UK organiser: 10th September 2013 will see the introduction of this exciting new competition at the Kidology UK Convention. Full entry details will be posted on the Kidology UK website www.kidologyuk.co.uk in due course and everyone attending the convention will be able to take part and win a unique Kidology UK Trophy, together with £100 of Qualatex 260Q balloons. The fairest possible judging system will be used and all necessary balloons will be supplied free of charge. This is going to be a great addition to a great convention, moving forward and looking to cater to all aspects of entertainment for children. Make sure you don’t miss out this year and register now! www.kidologyuk.co.uk. If you prefer to register by phone, call Alec Powell on 07831 115448. 25.5.13

 

Michael Gee performed close-up magic at last week's British Soap Awards held at MediaCityUK in Manchester and appeared on ITV2 during the after-show party. He's seen here with X Factor boy-band Union J. www.michaelgeemagic.com. 25.5.13

 

Merlin Magical Society news: "The Clifford Morrow Cup Competition for originality was held on Thursday May 23rd. It was judged by guest Don Quest who later did a Dealer Dem. It was won by Martin Peirce. Photo: The cup, being presented to Martin by our President, with Don Quest in the middle." John Clayton, Secretary, Merlin Magical Society. www.merlinmagicalsociety.co.uk. 25.5.13

 

Afternoon Drama: Haunted... 2.15pm on Wednesday 29th May on BBC Radio 4. "A dark psychological thriller by Sally Griffiths in which a TV illusionist and a medium both have their belief systems tested when a voice from the past refuses to keep silent. With Steffan Rhodri, Zoe Tapper and Vineeta Rishi." See TV Magic. 25.5.13

 

Bob Ostin. Very sad to report that Bob Ostin died last weekend aged 83. His funeral will take place on Friday 31st May at 11.00am in the Rosemary Chapel of Springwood Crematorium, Springwood Avenue, Woolton, Liverpool L25 7UN. 25.5.13

 

"Siegfried Visits Jan Rouven’s Illusions at Riviera Hotel & Casino" Click Here • "Criss Angel Will Be Eaten by Alligators in the Everglades, Hopefully" Click Here • "Angel axes death-defying stunt" Click Here • "Tips On Entertaining Kids" Click Here • "Slightly Off Target – Bullet Catch – The NT Shed - Review" Click Here • "Magician Rodd is ‘close-up’ master" Click Here • "World Record for Mind-Numbing Magic Shows Broken in South Hungary" Click Here'Doomsday 2013' is reviewed by Paul Voodini this week, Click Here"Now You See Me Clip: Magic as Self Defense!" Click Here • "David Kwong: Hollywood's Favorite Trickster" Click Here • That's it for another week, your UK magic news is always welcomed, see you next week, Duncan. 25.5.13

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Last Week: Number 673 - 18th May 2013

 

Davenport’s Magic Kingdom. Opening Season, 25th May 2013 - 30th September 2013. Since the 1890's, the Davenport family have been professional performing magicians and collectors of some of the most important artifacts in the world of Conjuring, Illusion and Mystery. Experience the unique story of this remarkable family and their place in British magical history through the timeline exhibition, films and their family magic show. Meet characters from the past, and visit L. Davenport Ltd's 1920's shop. Then sit back and enjoy a fun filled magic show for all the family to enjoy - included in the price of admission. Davenport's Magic Kingdom is Norfolk's newest attraction. Davenport's Magic Kingdom, Cromer Road, North Walsham, Norfolk NR28 0NB (Map). Visit www.davenportsmagickingdom.co.uk for more information and to book. 18.5.13

 

Derren Brown: Infamous. London dates now booking: www.nimaxtheatres.com. The acknowledged master of psychological illusion, fresh from the hugely successful two-year run of his 2012 Oliver award-winning show Derren Brown: Svengali, will once again mesmerise, shock and entertain the nation. 18.5.13

 

Mat Ricardo’s London Varieties, Leicester Square Theatre, London. The next show on Thursday, May 30th, stars newly crowned Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year Piff the Magic Dragon, Abandoban, and Original Street Dance. As seen on The Jonathan Ross Show, Mat Ricardo is one of the UK's most in-demand comedy variety performers. He’s an award- winning juggler extraordinaire, a true vaudeville performer with a modern twist. With his show ‘Mat Ricardo's London Varieties’ he’ll be bringing the world's greatest variety and circus stars to London’s Leicester Square theatre. With over two and a half decades behind him as a street and cabaret performer, Mat has held audiences awestruck at festivals and stages all around the world, performing for royalty and sharing billings with some of the global greats of comedy, avant-garde theatre and circus. He currently holds the title of London Cabaret awards, ‘Best Speciality Act’ and has previously won the ‘Herald Angel Award’ which is given at the Edinburgh festival for excellence in theatre. More info: Click Here. 18.5.13

 

For the past three years 'Close Up Success 2.0' has been in development. From the creators: It is finally here. With the very best technology behind it, an interactive, evolving membership portal has evolved. Harnessing all the greatest elements of the original course and then improving upon them with technology and over 250 pages of new material (over 1,000 pages in total with no filler, and over 250 videos, will be released throughout the entire course). To say we are proud of this is an understatement! We had been bugged by many people asking when the release date will be... well it is here! And to celebrate I am giving away my latest DVD as a download for free! No strings, no catches. Visit www.closeupsuccess.com. This, really, after all this hard work, is a time to celebrate, and so this is our gift to the magic community. All this comes prior to a very big announcement which will be made public in just a few weeks time... "Just about the most intelligent piece I have ever read" Bob Sheets. "Chris Dugdale and Phil Jay are simply sensational. To say they are leaders in their field is the understatement of the century" Mark Mason. Visit www.closeupsuccess.com for your free copy of Alpha today! 18.5.13

 

My Psychic Life, a show by Rob Bailey, the Psychic Psychologist: Returning to Oxford for the fourth year in a row, this updated version of Rob Bailey's popular Edinburgh fringe illusion show explores how a psychologist came to be a psychic performer. Weaving magic and comedy with his own life story, Rob tells the tale of a childhood fascination with the supernatural, his study of psychology, and work in secure psychiatric wards. He explores paranormal mysteries, the power of psychology, and impossible mental puzzles. Monday 27th May at 7pm; Tuesday 28th May at 8:30pm; Saturday 1st June at 4pm at The Old Fire Station, 40 George Street, Oxford OX1 2AQ (Map). Tickets: £8 full price, £7 concessions, from: www.underthefringe.com also see www.psychicpsychologist.co.uk. 18.5.13

 

Magic Night at Madame JoJo's - London on Friday June 7th, stars Chris Cox, Anil Desai, Lexi Heart, Stu Turner, David Loosely and MC Christian Lee. From the organisers: "Magic Night with multiple personas, a mugging, mind influencing, some magic for desperate love and a unbelievable scene of misplaced objects. Chris Cox returns to Magic Night befriending and influencing you into making you do things you had no intention of doing, if you thought you were free thinking, you might change your mind, unless Cox changes it for you that is! Anil Desai will channel every celebrity you have ever known with breathtaking rapidity and Lexi Heart will try and magic heartbreak away with songs and hilarious attempts at her own life. You can see what happens when a trickster is mugged with Stu Turner and also see why you should never give your money over when asked by Dave Loosley. All expertly compered by Tommy Cooperesque Christian Lee." Magic Night at Madame JoJo's. Friday June 7th. Doors open 7.00pm. Show starts at 7.45pm. Tickets £12 including entry to Good Foot. Show ticket plus dinner: £25. Tickets: www.wegottickets.co.uk Madame JoJo's, 8-10 Brewer Street, London W1F 0SE 020 734 3040 www.magicnight.co.uk. 18.5.13

 

Travis Perkins Assembly - Ferrybridge Day of Magic. From the organisers: "Travis Perkins is pleased to announce the date for the 21st Ferrybridge Day of Magic. Sunday 7th July 2013. With two Lecturettes, a Workshopette, Dealers and traders, and the Showette, the day looks promising, and all for £5.00. More news as we approach the day! Venue is The Community Centre, The Square, Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire. WF11 8PQ (Map). Doors open 9.45am and the day closes at 5.00pm. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks. Information can be obtained from Michael Shepherd on 01904 709500 or admin@castlemagicalservices.co.uk." 18.5.13

 

Magicseen Mega Offer Weekend! From the publishers: Last year we had a fabulous response to one of these special offer periods and so we are having a similar one this weekend. This time if you take out a new or extend a current subscription to Magicseen for a 1 year period, you can choose to receive completely free one of the following Magicseen Publication titles in a downloadable E-Book format. The titles are: The Best Of British, The Man Who Would Be King (Andrew Normansell), WD40 (Wayne Dobson), and The Masterclass Volumes 1 or 2. If you take out a new sub or extend for a 2 year period, you can elect to receive any two of the titles. Some of these books are not normally offered as downloads, so you need to place your order before midnight on Sunday 19th May to take advantage. You can extend/take out either printed copy or download subscriptions in order to get this offer. We don't do these specials very often, so jump to it and go to www.magicseen.co.uk now before the midnight deadline on Sunday. 18.5.13

 

Scott Wells lectures at The Surrey Society of Magicians on Thursday 23rd May: "These are troubling economic times all over the world and the entertainment industry is taking the brunt of the downturn. Companies and private individuals have cut back on their budgets for parties and events. So how can we as magicians find work today? Scott Wells' lecture, 'Alternate Streams of Revenue' provides information, ideas and suggestions on how and where you might find some additional work using the expertise you already have. This lecture will help teach you how to exercise your creative muscle to find alternative venues to perform. This lecture is heavy on marketing ideas but it also includes loads of practical, commercial tricks for use in each of these venues. Tricks will include close up, parlor, stage and Mentalism plus more. There is something for every skill level regardless of whether you are a beginner, intermediate of advanced conjuror. I guarantee that you will learn a lot and certainly enjoy this one." Members are free and visiting magicians are welcome for a £10 entrance fee. The lecture takes place in Bookham, Surrey at 8pm; for full details contact Adam Mosley info@surreymagic.org.uk. 18.5.13

 

Scott Wells will also be lecturing for the Derby Magic Circle on Wednesday, 22nd May 2013, at Breadsall Village Hall, Derby. Visiting magicians are very welcome at Derby, there is a small fee of £10 payable on the night. Please contact our secretary Allan Humphries on 01889 590 975 prior to attending. For more information about our programme for the remainder of the year please visit www.derbymagiccircle.com. Paul Sharp. 18.5.13

 

Merlins of Wakefield’s Mad May Sale is now half way through: "Lots of items have gone at great prices, but more are being added every day. To get the latest details Click Here. Remember, sale ends 31st May. The Ali Cardabra Lecture on 12th June has a few spaces left, so Click Here to book. The new 16 page Preview will be available in June, along with details of a free competition to win hundreds of pounds worth of magic. Details will be announced at the end of May." www.merlinswakefield.com. 18.5.13

 

The Dreaded Mentalist. "Jez Starr welcomes you to his world of Magic, Mystery and Mental Illusions. In this exciting show, magician and mentalist Jez Starr, performs various demonstrations and experiments to show you, yes you, what a mentalist is and what a mentalist does. Featuring experiments and demonstrations on Group Consciousness, Intuition, and Personality Tests, Mind-Reading, Mind Control and Mind-Over-Matter. A fun and lively show, bringing something different to Warminster! Expect the unexpected! Must be seen to be believed! Over 16's only! Audience Participation." Saturday 20th July at 7.30pm at Warminster Civic Centre, Sambourne Road, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8LB (Map). Tickets £8, booking advised. Available from www.dreadedmentalist.com or from Jez on 07749 538016. 18.5.13

 

Ben Earl Trick Artist DVD. This title will be released on October 14th. Pre-order via Amazon.co.uk. From the makers: "Sleight-of-hand genius, trickster, manipulator, illusionist, hustler--master of deception. This is Ben Earl. His new DVD, Trick Artist, allows him to do the unthinkable through a series of seemingly unbelievable and impossible challenges. In each show Ben invites a select group of guests whom he amazes with a series of tricks leading up to one mind-blowing death defying stunt. Ben focuses on a different theme each week such as money or art and transforms an empty space into a wonderland of deception designed to explore the week's theme. With a belief that there is no limit to what his mind and body can accomplish, Ben has dedicated his life to mastering the unimaginable and to making his audience believe the impossible." Final cover artwork not yet produced. 18.5.13

 

Magic & Mayhem: Van Buren & Gandeys present "Magic & Mayhem" a show for all the family filled with magic, illusions, comedy, escapology and circus skills. Also starring Peanuts the UK's smallest clown. At the Brighton Fringe Festival from 25th May until 1st June 2013. Shows at 2pm every day in the Sabai Pavilion, Victoria Gardens, Brighton. Book in advance on 08717 058 888 or buy tickets on the door. 18.5.13

 

Pointless... Alexander Armstrong and co-host Richard Osman present a 'variety' celebrity special of the quiz 'Pointless' that tests the depths of your general knowledge. These celebrities try to come up with the answers that no-one else could think of. Featuring Cannon and Ball, Hale and Pace, Keith Harris and Orville, Bobby Davro and Kenny Lynch, with a special appearance by Paul Daniels. 4.45pm on Saturday 25th May on BBC 1, see TV Magic. 18.5.13

 

Mario Morris: Showmanship from the eyes of a Street Performer - Lecture and Workshop. Saturday July 13th, Bristol. From the organisers: "Mario Morris is an international comedy magician and street performer who has performed his Family Magic Show in over 20 countries throughout the world. He is the founder of the School of Busking and is part of the teaching faculty of the Magic and Mystery School in Las Vegas. He will be bringing his Lecture and Workshop to Smoke and Mirrors as well as performing his show in the evening on Saturday July 13th. 11am Introduction to Mario Morris' Life Inspiring Story; 12noon Secrets of street performing; 1pm go and get lunch; 2pm Secrets of Street performing part two (workshop); 3pm Showmanship, the whole world is your stage and questions; 4pm photos and goodbyes. This unique workshop is from the perspective of Street Theatre, but is applicable to most areas of showmanship. A real greenhouse effect in growing in the art of showmanship. Ideal for hobbyists, intermediate or experienced performers. July 13th, 11am - 4pm. Cost: £35 (note: this does not include tickets to the Mario Morris Magic evening show)." www.mariomorris.co.uk. 18.5.13

 

Ian Adair will be launching his latest and final book in his Kids' Magic series at the Trix in the Stix convention (20th-21st May). Novel Notions for Kids' Shows is the eleventh in the series, containing 40 original effects and routines over 124 pages. Ian says that some of his best ideas are included in this publication and that the material has been tried and tested in front of audiences of children of all ages. Over the period of the last two years the complete series, consisting of more than two thousand pages must surely be a record of some sorts. "I've enjoyed writing and illustrating these as well as being able to share my ideas with fellow children's entertainers." Ian said. This latest book is exclusively available through Practical Magic: www.practical-magic.com. 18.5.13

 

Celtic Storm, Magic, Dance & Illusion: "Celtic Storm, Magic, Dance & Illusion performed and closed the show at the Bristol Day of Magic last Sunday. This was the first time Martin and Kerry had performed together in nearly two years due to the arrival of their little boy Sullivan. Before this they had been one of the UK's busiest acts on the south coast circuit and the act was very well received by the audience and you can see some of their performance at www.youtube.com. Martin and Kerry look forward to their next show together later on in the year but for now Martin goes back out on the road solo as 'Mr Eerius'! www.celticstormillusion.webs.com www.mreeriusmagic.webs.com." 18.5.13

 

"Bullet Catch, Spiegeltent, Brighton" Click Here • "Angry Birds iPad Magic – Abra-Ca-Bacon!" Click Here • "Criss Angel dices with death for the second time in one week in Las Vegas" Click Here • "Las Vegas has become 'Caveman' Central" Click Here • "Young magician scoops three magic awards" Click Here • "Andre’ Talks Endeavors with Murray, Celebrity Magician" Click Here • "A Chat with Illusionist Paul Kieve About His New Show Limbo" Click Here • "BAFTA TV Awards 2013 - Dynamo" Click Here • "Review: Derren Brown at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham" Click Here • "TV's Derren Brown in Loughborough" Click Here • "‘Now You See Me’ Clips & Motion Posters: Smooth Criminal Magicians" Click HereMany thanks for all your contributions this week, always welcomed. See you next week, Duncan. 18.5.13

 

 

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