Number
1282 - Saturday 18th January 2025
Blackpool Magic Convention,
14th-16th February. From the organisers:
Here's our full list of the over 70 magicians performing or lecturing at
BMC25.
We've also got a couple of big surprise appearances that you won't know
about until you see them...
Add to that 178 of the biggest magic dealers from around the world and
we think you'll agree that this an event that you won't want to miss:
Tom Wright,
Bill Sharpe,
John Carey,
Ricky McLeod,
Jay Mattioli,
Chris Dugdale,
Artem Shchukin,
Cody Fisher,
Rodd Hogg,
Martin 'Marvel' Pierce,
David Stone,
Klek Entos,
Max Fulham,
Ben Seidman,
Marc Paul,
Jamie Williams,
David Parr,
Zak Mirz,
Brent Braun, 'The One' finalists,
Jason Nejrup,
Enzo Weyne,
Riccardo Berdini,
Dave Allen,
Graeme Shaw,
Jezo Bond, Martin Gardiner,
Noah Kelly,
Sam Hogarth,
Tom Crosbie,
Francesco Della Bona,
Dom Chambers,
Terry Fator,
Hanson Chien,
Rick Thomas,
Matthew Garrett,
Peter Turner,
Jon Armstrong,
Ashleigh Goodwin,
Gustavo Raley,
Jeki Yoo,
Chris Congreave,
Paul Martin,
Steve Axtell,
Jack Rhodes,
Adrian Carratala,
Steve Hewlett,
Eric Leclerc,
Bond Lee,
Blake Vogt,
Alyx Hilshey,
Dan Sperry,
Carl Charlesworth,
Jay Adkins,
Martin Hart,
Insane Magic,
Jonathan Goodwin,
Oliver Tabor,
Paul Stone,
Yev Moskalov,
George Quinn,
Michael Ammar,
Avi Yap,
Juan Mayoral,
Arturo Brachetti,
Cillian O’Connor,
Ryland Petty and
Harry Merlin Piper. Book Now!
www.blackpoolmagicconvention.com.
18.1.25.
18.1.25
Ian
Adair MIMC. 20th December 1940 - 13th January 2025. For anyone
discovering magic in the 70s and 80s here in the UK Ian Adair was one of
the main driving forces, next to founder Edwin Hooper, at The Supreme
Magic Company in Bideford, Devon. Supreme were the largest magic mail
order company in the UK, producing a huge range of magic, together with
the monthly Magigram magazine, which included many advertisements
featuring photos of Ian holding the latest magic prop. He became one of
the most well known faces in British magic, via all those ads! In
reality he was a prolific writer and inventor, with over 300 book titles
to his name, including the highly regarded Encyclopedia of Dove Magic
series.
He turned a childhood passion for magic into a career as a creator, writer and performer, specialising in magic for children's birthday parties; which I always think is probably the most worthwhile genre of magic. I never told Ian this, and probably should have done, but I always used the affectionate nick name "Ivan Idea" for him, because he always did! One of magic's real characters, he'll be sadly missed. DT. 18.1.25
Showzam!
Blackpool, 14th-22nd February. Something magical is coming for February
half-term. Love magic and mystery? From 14th-22nd February, Showzam! is bringing
an exciting blend of live performances, incredible illusions, and show-stopping
variety to Blackpool. Enjoy cutting-edge street acts, mind-blowing tricks from
world-class magicians, and fun-packed entertainment for all the family. Pictured
here, the sensational Andrew Basso. See
www.visitblackpool.com/showzam for more information and
www.facebook.com.
18.1.25
Britain's
favourite comedy illusionists, Young & Strange, are live on stage
tonight at The Park Theater, New Hampshire, USA. With over 50
million online views Britain's most famous comedy illusionists Young &
Strange present their smash hit show 'Delusionists'. Fun for the entire
family, it's a fully interactive, immersive experience, with
extraordinary appearances, vanishes, mind reading feats and more. All
tied together with a mind blowing, sensational finale set to rival any
Las Vegas show! See
www.youngandstrange.co.uk for today and tomorrow's dates, and more
ahead. Trailer:
YouTube.
18.1.25
Germany's
Robert Choinka joins
Evolution
of Magic on 13th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 20th, 22nd February at the Horseshoe, Blackpool
Pleasure Beach. From the promoter: Step into the unknown with The Evolution of Magic, one of the
longest running magic shows in the UK.
Returning in 2025, this is a show where reality glitches, time bends,
and the impossible unfolds before your eyes.
In an intimate Las Vegas-style showroom, world-class magicians Craig
Christian and Elizabeth, two-time Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist
(2019 and 2024), invite you to experience illusions that defy explanation.
Craig's mastery of ordinary objects like cards and coins will leave you
questioning what's possible, while his unpredictable and mysterious
performances keep you on the edge of your seat.
Elizabeth's magic connects directly with the audience, blending
mentalism with visual wonders that challenge your perception of reality.
You won't just watch the magic, you’ll feel it around you. The show
moves fast, with moments that blur the line between illusion and
reality.
The Evolution of Magic is not just a show, it's an unforgettable
experience. For more
info
Click Here (Discount
code: EVO25).
2.11.24
Paul
Zenon: Monkey Business. This event is part of the Showzam! festival
happening in Blackpool between 14th and 22nd February (see above).
During this talk Paul Zenon will explore the amazing, strange but true
story behind the weird novelties advertised in the back of vintage
comics and as sold in Blackpool trick shops. It's a fun deep dive into a
sea of disappointment and cons for kids - promising the Moon on a stick,
but generally delivering just a stick....a really small one! See
www.visitblackpool.com/showzam for full details.
18.1.25
The Magic Room in Lichfield is now running every month! Every 4th Wednesday of the month at 55 Wade Street, Lichfield. Parlour magic comes alive in a lively and memorable night out. Designed for a small group of curious souls, our evening is about mystery, astonishment, and pure enjoyment. Incredible magic like you've never seen it before. With just a small group, everyone gets a perfect view as our magicians conjure the impossible right before your eyes. A truly unique experience unlike anything else in Lichfield. Beyond the tricks, it's a chance to simply have a great night out with your friends and family. Tickets (£10) available from: www.eventbrite.co.uk. 18.1.25
MagiCon
2025 in Belfast - now inviting enquiries from Magic Dealers. James
Hobart writes: As in previous years the dealers will be located in the
lecture room and close during other events meaning that dealers can
enjoy the lectures and shows with the other delegates. There is no
charge for a dealer table. Anyone interested is asked to contact the
organisers asap as accommodation in Belfast will be limited on a busy
Bank Holiday weekend. Registration and further details for all can be
found on our website. Tickets for the public shows are also on sale now.
www.ulstersocietyofmagicians.com
18.1.25
British
Ring President's Dinner, 22nd March. From I.B.M. British Ring
President Aidan Heritage: Magicians and their guests are cordially
invited to the British Ring President's Dinner on Saturday 22nd March.
Tickets are only £45 per person. Enjoy a three course meal and magical
entertainment at Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage (SG1 3AZ). The hotel is
running a special rate of £84 B&B for a classic double room based on two
people staying, booking code provided at time of ticket purchase. To
purchase your tickets please email
president@britishring.org.uk. Tickets available until 16th February.
18.1.25
Yvan
Zim Lecture - The Surrey Society of Magicians, 23rd January. Adam Mosley writes:
Yvan Garmy (stage name Yvan Zim) is a Franco-Irish magician who's been
performing professionally for over 10 years. Currently based in Lyon,
Yvan performs throughout France at weddings, corporate events, and other
private functions. In 2023, his show "Tangled d'Illusions" was sold out
at the Edinburgh Fringe. Yvan's approach to creating visual and practical
magic has made many of his creations best sellers.
About the lecture:
Yvan's lecture focuses on practical visual magic. To illustrate his
thinking, he showcases a mix of original close-up magic and stage magic.
These are tricks, ideas, and creations that magicians of all skill
levels can appreciate and use. Expect to see tricks with Cards,
Newspapers, Credit Cards, Bills... There is something for everyone in
this lecture. "Yvan's lecture for the Society of Irish Magicians showcased his
creativity and thinking. His ability to take an effect and take it to a
higher level, of both amazement and clarity, leaves his audiences,
magicians and layfolk astounded." Quentin Reynolds. "The best card-to-box I've ever seen!" Jeff McBride.
Members are free and visiting magicians are welcome for a £10 entrance
fee. The lecture takes place in East Horsley, Surrey, at 8pm on Thursday
23rd January. For full
details see our website
www.surreysocietyofmagicians.co.uk or contact
Adam Mosley, addmoses@hotmail.com.
18.1.25
Mark
James Lecture Anatomy of a Magician - Harrogate Society of Magicians,
21st January. Gary Craswell writes: The lecture will feature
performances and explanations of Mark's revolutionary handling for Cups
& Balls, Silk to Egg, 8 Cards to Pockets, Billiard Balls, Blindfolded
Book Test, Multiplying Bottles, Vanishing an Elephant and more! He'll
also discuss how to find a great opener, using music in your show,
understanding and implementing character and tell you some of his
favourite stories from the last 20 years of his career in magic. Full
Details on
Facebook. Tuesday 21st January at 8pm at Harrogate Society of
Magicians, Pannal Village Hall, Station Road, Harrogate HG3 8QT.
Magicians only. £10 on the door, £5 for associated Magic Circles and
Societies.
18.1.25
New
E-Club Pro Select Effect From Mark Leveridge Magic. Mark writes:
Catch up with a really convincing version of the following close up
routine called Seeker Coin. A coin is marked with a sticker
bearing a spectator's initials. A freely selected card (which can also
be signed if you wish) is shuffled back into the deck which is boxed.
The marked coin is taken and vanishes. Opening the card box with
genuinely empty hands, the deck is removed and cut to reveal the marked
coin is resting on top of one card in the deck's centre. It's the chosen
card! No reset, this download routine requires minimal sleight of hand
(basically just the ability to affect a coin vanish) and costs only
£7.00 (£3.50 for members of E-Club Pro). To watch a dem and to order go
to
www.markleveridge.co.uk.
18.1.25
"Matt
Clewley's Desert Island Tricks"
YouTube. Brought to you by
www.alakazam.co.uk.
18.1.25
Pete
Turner on Craig
Petty's Magic TV: 'Talk Magic'. Every week Craig Petty sits down and chats
with a well known magician; a creator, a performer, or someone who has had a
positive impact on the Magic Community. This week: "Pete Turner speaks out
on propless mentalism"
YouTube.
18.1.25
The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week!
This week, Paul Daniels from 'The Paul Daniels Magic Show' on 7th September
1985. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
18.1.25
Flash
of Brilliance: The Pros Lecture - Northamptonshire Magicians Club, 21st
January. Joy Payne writes: A special night featuring professional
magicians from our club, who will share some of their closely guarded
secrets in short, impactful lectures. Expect a diverse range of magic,
from the creative to the astonishing, as our talented members showcase
their favourite routines and insights. This is a rare opportunity to
witness an array of magical expertise, all in one evening. Members free,
guest fee £15. (Please support the raffle.) 21st January at 8pm – club
room opens 7.30pm. Admittance to the bar via the front entrance from
7.15pm. Northamptonshire Magicians Club, Brafield Working Men's Club, 35
Bedford Road, Brafield-on-the-Green NN7 1BD.
18.1.25
David
Alnwick’s Premiere of The Haunted House - The Lantern Theatre, Sheffield. From the promoter:
Critically acclaimed writer, actor, and magician David Alnwick (The
Mystery of Dracula, The Signalman) brings his first full-length
theatre show, Charles Dickens' The Haunted House, to The Lantern
Theatre, Sheffield, from 16th–25th January 2025.
Combining Dickens' ghostly tales with the chilling intrigue of
Jonathan Creek, Alnwick delivers a supernatural murder mystery like
no other, weaving psychological illusions seamlessly into the story.
Five strangers are invited to a secluded house for an evening of ghost
stories inspired by Dickens' classic tale. Cut off from the world, their
night takes a deadly turn when one guest is found dead in a locked room.
Was it murder—or the curse of the house?
"I grew up watching Derren Brown's psychological illusion shows and horror movies. I wanted to combine the two and create plays using that kind of magic." David Alnwick. 16th–25th January 2025 at The Lantern Theatre, Sheffield. Click Here for more info and to book. ★★★★★ ThreeWeeks ★★★★★ The Sphinx ★★★★ Broadway Baby ★★★★ Fringe Guru. 18.1.25
"Illusionist
to return to 'birth place' of his act"
Click
Here • "Derren Brown declares Bristol 'the best place to be' with the 'best
audiences in the country'"
Click Here • "Oliver! in the West End review – what more could you
want?" [starring actor/magician Simon Lipkin]
Click Here • "Edinburgh magician who lives on a canal boat amazes
The Bidding Room dealers"
Click Here • "Kane & Abel: Magician Twinpossible show in
Chesterfield will raise money for town's RSPCA animal shelter"
Click Here • "Penn & Teller review – icons of stage magic celebrate
50 years in canny new Australian show"
Click Here • "Opera Review: Siegfried & Roy: The Unauthorised Opera,
Sydney Festival"
Click Here • That's it for another week - your UK magic news (big
and small!) is always welcomed. See you next week, Duncan.
18.1.25
MagicWeek TM magic magazine - Created and Published weekly by Duncan Trillo MIMC © 2000-2025
Number
1281 - Saturday 11th January 2025
Bradford's
Big Bash. A behind-the-scenes look at RISE, the spectacular opening event
heralding Bradford's tenure as UK City of Culture in 2025. RISE has been created
by award-winning theatre director Kirsty Housley in collaboration with Steven
Frayne, the world-renowned, Bradford-born magician formerly known as Dynamo.
This documentary (Friday 17th January, 7.30pm, BBC One) also follows the local
people taking part in this extraordinary event, including amateur
acrobats, singers, poets and a young magician. Narrated by Bradfordian
and Downton Abbey actress Sophie McShera. "'It's our Olympic opening ceremony': Dynamo, David
Hockney and more unite for Bradford city of culture"
www.theguardian.com.
11.1.25
Blackpool
Magic Convention presents The Best Family Entertainers.
We've got the following Family Entertainers performing or lecturing (or both!)
at BMC25:
Eric LeClerc,
Steve Axtell,
Dan Sperry,
Jay Mattioli,
Bill Sharpe,
Gustavo Raley,
Tricky Ricky,
Jason Nejrup,
Steve Hewlett and
Martin 'Marvel' Peirce. Book now!
www.blackpoolmagicconvention.com.
11.1.25
Harry De Cruz
Sleightly Impressive - Berkhamsted
Centenary Theatre, 6th February.
Join recently awarded London Magic Convention 'London Close Up Magic Champion' Harry De Cruz, for a
special one night only performance of his show Sleightly Impressive.
This will combine his smash-hit Edinburgh Fringe show with some of the
biggest and best tricks of his career.
Harry has performed in over 30 countries, from London's West End to an
international arena show, performing for celebrities and four different Royal
Families, including our own.
Harry is behind much of the magic you see on stage and screen. He has consulted
for some of the world's biggest magicians and theatre shows, including working
for Dynamo for 8 years as his Head of Magic, on his TV shows, brand collaborations,
and worldwide arena tour. He was the Resident Director for Derren Brown's
Unbelievable and a consultant for multiple West End shows.
£10 per ticket including complimentary drink on arrival. Tickets and more info,
Click Here.
11.1.25
Merlins
of Wakefield Extra 20% Off Quality Used Magic & Books. For one week only Merlins of Wakefield will help
you to beat those January blues by treating yourself to a magical bargain. From
midday Monday 13th January until midnight Sunday 19th January we take an extra 20%
off our
entire collection of Quality Used Magic and Books! Our selection of Quality
Used and Collectable Magic numbers well over 500 products, most of which are
offered at an amazing 40% off regular new prices. For this incredible limited
time offer, we're giving you an extra 20% off of these already low prices! So,
bag yourself a truly unbeatable January bargain!
Simply email merlins@btconnect.com to get the special discount code.
Remember, this special offer code is for one week and we only have one of each
product so you need to act fast to avoid missing out.
www.merlinswakefield.com.
11.1.25
Chris Wood Lecture
- Zodiac Magical Society, 15th January.
Donato Capitella writes:
On 15th January, the Zodiac Magical Society in London is thrilled to host a
lecture by Chris Wood. Known for his insight and attention to detail when
improving effects, Chris focuses on the why as well as the how behind the
routines in his working repertoire. This lecture is ideal for those looking to
refine their magic and gain practical techniques for performance.
This event will take place on Wednesday, January 15th from 8pm to 10pm at our club room,
just a five-minute walk from the Northfields Tube station on the Piccadilly
Line. There is a £10 charge for visitors. Please email
membership@zodiacmagicalsociety.co.uk to reserve your spot as soon as possible,
as places are limited.
Visit our website at
www.zodiacmagicalsociety.co.uk and follow us on
Instagram for more updates.
11.1.25
Michael
Ammar UK Lecture Tour Now Booking. Peter Nardi writes:
The Magic Legend Michael Ammar Returns to the UK!
This is your last chance to book the one and only Michael Ammar for your magic
club! Michael will be touring the UK in April/May 2025 with his brand-new
lecture, a once-in-a-lifetime event you absolutely can't miss.
While Michael will also be appearing at this year's Blackpool Convention, his
tour lecture is completely unique and packed with exclusive material. It's an
unforgettable evening of magic and inspiration!
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to see Michael Ammar live. To book him
for your club, email sales@alakazam.co.uk with the subject line Ammar.
Let's make magic happen!
YouTube.
11.1.25
The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week!
This week, from 35 years ago, Kevin James on The Paul Daniels Magic Show on 20th
January 1990. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
11.1.25
Richard Jones Soldier of Illusion - UK
Tour. From the promoter: Richard Jones rose to fame as
the only magician to ever win Britain’s Got Talent and has since won the
prestigious Gold Star accolade within The Inner Magic Circle, the highest honour
in The Magic Circle. Known as 'The Military Illusionist' he represents the very
best in cutting edge magic, mind-reading and psychological illusion. Richard
combines his training from his 12 years serving in the British Army using his
expert knowledge of deception to create a unique experience you will never
forget! Following his headline sellout with the biggest magic show in the West
End, Richard continues to astound audiences around the world with his incredible
tours. For more info and to book visit
www.richardjonesmagic.co.uk/tour-dates.
11.1.25
Harri Harrington Lecture - Farnborough Association of Magical Entertainers,
13th January. FAM write:
Lord Harri is one of the most exciting and innovative close-up magicians in the
UK today with novel real world routines using everyday objects that stand out
from the crowd. His Alakazam lecture has been rated 5 stars. Come, learn and
maybe take away something new.
Guests £10, pay on the night. 8pm on Monday 13th January at Farnborough
Association of Magical Entertainers, St Marks Church Hall, Guildford Road East, Farnborough GU14 6QE
(see
www.famemagic.club/find-us).
11.1.25
New
from Mark Leveridge Magic. Here is the latest download added to the E-Club Pro
Select range of exclusive products: Connections. A set of seven cards is
displayed, each bearing the logo picture of a well known social media platform.
A second set of cards is also shown, each card bearing the actual name of the
seven platforms. This second set is shuffled and a spectator genuinely freely
touches the back of any card, which is placed in view to one side. The set of
logo cards is shuffled and another spectator nominates any number from 1 to 7.
Using the chosen number, six logos are eliminated one at a time until just one
is left at random. Amazingly the logo matches the name card chosen at the start!
No sleight of hand, no gimmicked cards, this lightweight mental item is always
ready to go and as there is no force, the matching card pairs can be different
every time. Price is just £7.00 (£3.50 for E-Club Pro members). To watch a dem
and to order go to
www.markleveridge.co.uk.
11.1.25
Blackpool
hypnosis legend Ken Webster goes down under to raise funds for Brian House
Children's Hospice writes Jonathan Royle.
After last year, performing a one-night Drag Queen Comedy Hypnosis Show,
Hypnotist Ken Webster is now set to travel from England to Australia without
boarding a plane to raise funds for this worthy charity.
You can help without it costing you a penny by simply following his Crazy &
Dangerous Trip as explained on his site
www.kendownunder.com and in the video
here
YouTube.
11.1.25
Norvil & Josephine: Out of the Hat - The Well Walk Theatre, London, from tonight! This mini magical musical was created especially for Hampstead's new magical Well Walk Theatre. It's a 40-minute version of Norvil & Josephine's full-length comedy musical magic show. Out of the Hat is a whimsical play about a magic show, fun for all ages. Amazing, inspiring and comical, you've never seen a show like this. The Well Walk Theatre, 49 Willow Road, London NW3 1TS. For more Click Here. 11.1.25
Four Magicians - Aberdeen Arts
Centre, this Friday 17th January. Four of Scotland's leading magicians come
together for an evening like no other – minds will be read, laws of
nature will be defied... dad jokes will be told.
Magicians Smith & Burns, Eoin Smith and James Dickson take to the stage
together in an award-winning ensemble magic show that's packed full of
jaw-dropping sleight of hand, incredible feats of illusion and a
generous helping of comedy. Experience the impossible with magicians
that have performed in Las Vegas and to celebrities & VIPs at the Magic
Castle in Hollywood. 7.30pm on 17th January at Aberdeen Arts Centre, 33
King Street, Aberdeen AB24 5AA. See
www.aberdeenartscentre.com for more info and to book.
11.1.25
"Famous
teen magician teaches you how to break world records!"
Click Here • "Archaeologists find the 4,000-year-old tomb of an
overachieving Egyptian magician"
Click Here • "Murray The Magician"
Click Here • "Secrets of the magician's shroud"
Click Here • And finally, look what I found on my YouTube travels (I was
looking for the Nvidia keynote at CES!), British Digital Magician Keelan Leyser,
reporting from CES, Las Vegas
YouTube.
That's all for another week. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to this
week's MagicWeek, see you next week, Duncan.
11.1.25