Number 331 - 28th October 2006
Paul
Zenon is celebrating Halloween and the publication in softback of
'Street Magic' by launching his new website
www.paulzenon.com
which has artwork by legendary cult artist Vince Ray; known for his comic
book, tattoo and album cover work. The book is published by Carlton (RRP
£12.99) and signed copies of that and Paul's other books are available via
the website, post free. As a special opening offer, copies of all three of
Paul's books - 100 Ways to Win a Tenner, Paul Zenon's Dirty
Tricks and Street Magic, (total RRP £32.97 plus postage) - are
available for just £27.50, signed, post free, for a limited period. Paul
will also be giving away free signed copies of 'Street Magic' to the first
13 people who email on Halloween (i.e. after midnight on Monday 30th) with
the answer to the following question: "What was the first line of the
Number One hit song sung by the special guest on Paul Zenon's show at the
Brighton Festival this year?" It's obscure, but relevant for the time of
year! Answers should be emailed to:
Lucky13@paulzenon.com, complete with your name and address.
Paul will be answering questions on the 'Magic Woods' forum next week
www.themagicwoods.co.uk and has just been booked to guest once again
in Dictionary Corner (at Des Lynam's request) on Des Lynam's last week of
Countdown - the final finals week, which will be transmitted 18th to 22nd
December.
28.10.06
Chris
Cox... He Can't Read Minds? "In a show that utilises magic, illusion,
psychological suggestion and multimedia technology, comes a unique
entertainment experience to leave minds in a quandary. Following a hugely
successful run at this year's Edinburgh Fringe, BBC Radio 1’s resident
magician Chris Cox will present his brilliantly original stage show He
Can't Read Minds? for a three night run at the Etcetera Theatre, Camden,
from Friday 17th to Sunday 19th November, where he will demonstrate his
unique powers that defy earthly boundaries." "masterful skill and
technique… make for a fully entertaining hour" The Stage. 7.30pm
Friday and Saturday, 6.30pm Sunday. Tickets: £7.50 Box Office: 020 7482
4857
www.etceteratheatre.com
www.chriscox.info.
28.10.06
French
magician David Stone who took 3rd place in Close-up Magic at FISM 2006
in Stockholm, will lecture at magic clubs across the UK from October 30th
- November 21st (with thanks to Colin Peters). See
What's On for places and dates. For
David Stone magic on YouTube
Click Here.
28.10.06
Magician
Paul Martin was delighted to present his close-up magic to Prince
William and Kate Middleton last Saturday evening, in the dining hall at
Sandhurst. The couple really enjoyed seeing Paul's magic close up and his
'Card on Ceiling' made a real impact, especially considering the height of
the ceiling! "You are brilliant and you made the night" said Prince
William. This is the second time that Jumpingfrogs Entertainment have been
selected to provide entertainment for the Royal Family.
www.jumpingfrogs.com.
28.10.06
Monkey
Magic. Pete Firman, Alistair Cook, Jonathan Goodwin and Anthony Owen
have joined forces to launch
www.monkeymagic.tv
- for fans of the television series of the same name. Produced by Anthony
for Objective Productions, Monkey Magic first appeared on Channel Five in
2003 and starred Pete, Alistair and Jonathan alongside the late Pete
McCahon. Anthony says "We wanted to tell the story of how Monkey Magic
came about as it clearly influenced a bunch of other series in the years
since. And we wanted somewhere to pay our tributes to Pete McCahon and
share our memories of our times together." They plan to continue adding to
the site in the coming months.
28.10.06
The
annual Close-up Competition of The British Magical Society for the
'Ray Bradbury Trophy' was held on Tuesday, 24th October. An audience of
almost 100 members and their guests were entertained to a wide range of
close-up magic by ten competitors in this popular competition. The acts
were judged by two magical judges and one 'lay' judge and all agreed that
the most magical and entertaining act was performed by Frank Allen - Alain
the Storyteller - with one of his individual presentations. Frank had
previously won the trophy back in 1985. Reported by Bryan Atherton.
28.10.06
Halloween
Night will see a popular Lincolnshire live music venue turn into a
haunted cavern full of ghoulish delights when Brennan's Bar in Spalding
plays host to Elwood's Halloween Mindreading and Story-Telling Show
(complete with other spooky goings on!). A fiendishly good time will be
had, and all are welcome. There will be a free barbecue from 7pm, and the
bar will be open until midnight. Elwood (aka Elliot Watson) can also be
seen at Brennan's Bar tonight (Saturday) performing with his band, Sirius.
www.elwoodmagic.co.uk.
28.10.06
Leamington
and Warwick Society Dinner and Cabaret
at 7.30pm on Friday November 10th - Starring Amethyst, Marc Paul and Mark
Worgan. Venue: Honiley Court Hotel & Conference Centre, Meer End Road,
Honiley, Warwickshire CV8 1NP (Map).
Tickets £30.00 Telephone Ivor Williams on 02476 462701.
www.magicsociety.co.uk.
28.10.06
Entertainers
Wanted! RDF Television email: "Does the idea of housework instantly
make you reach for the remote control and a box of chocolates? Forget
Desperate Housewives, meet... the Perfect Housewife! BBC3's hugely
successful series is back and looking for outgoing, funny and friendly
women/men to take part. If you'd like to spend a couple of days at
Anthea's lovely home and get expert help to turn you from a ‘hopeless
housewife’ into a ‘domestic goddess’ then help is at hand!" If you are
interested in taking part in this programme email Naomi Elkin:
naomi.elkin@rdfmedia.com.
28.10.06
Halloween
Prison Break. From 6pm onwards on Tuesday 31st October Daniel Hunt of
'Amethyst' will attempt his second Houdini-style prison escape, from the
former Liberty Gaol at the Ripon Law & Order Museum, St. Marygate, Ripon -
following a challenge from the Museum Manager, Miss Penny Hartley. Daniel
will be thoroughly examined by a doctor, whilst North Yorkshire Police
search the cell. He'll then be then bound in a straight jacket and 100ft
of steel chain, before being secured with several padlocks all supplied by
W. Bensons of Ripon. Daniel will then be placed in the old Victorian 10ft
x 4ft, double-barred cell and given 30 minutes to make his bid for
freedom. There will be a Halloween Fayre with refreshments and a grand
prize draw in the car park opposite the museum, where visitors will be
able to watch Daniel's escape attempt via a live video link. For more
information contact Ripon Museums on 01765 690799 or visit
www.riponmuseums.co.uk or email Annette Claire:
amethystmagic007@aol.com
also see:
www.amethyst-illusions.com.
28.10.06
News
from Close Up Success... "We have been very pleased by the
number of people who have pre-ordered the course from the advertisement
placed with MagicWeek. The feedback includes comments like 'It is about
time someone who has been successful in this business released this
must-have information.' Within the first few days MagicWeek's advert has
generated global interest including Australia, Japan the US, Germany,
Holland and Ireland in our unique course which we believe to be the best
learning tool available in the business of close up magic." Visit
www.closeupsuccess.com and find out more.
28.10.06
The
Best of The Royal Variety Show - Speciality Acts
airs at 9pm on Thursday 2nd November on ITV3 featuring highlights from 46
years of the Royal Variety Performance. This edition looks focuses on the
speciality act and will of course include magicians. Lance Burton is sure
to appear, together with a number of other magicians (it would be great to see Finn Jon's appearance from the
early 70's). The Royal Variety Performance 2006 takes place at The London
Coliseum on Monday December 4th and will feature David & Dania
Click Here.
28.10.06
The
Harlequin Collection. Five of Hearts Magic Productions have just
introduced a new range of beautifully hand crafted magic items featuring
exotic and native British hardwoods incorporating ornamental and rose
engine lathe turning - sought after by collectors and magicians alike.
"Each piece features a complementary mix of exotic woods, a mélange of
bright colours and subtle hues, enhancing alternate box joints,
featured turning styles, special inlays and veneers. We take our
inspiration from 'Fiesta' and 'Carnival' - this new range of magic is
excitingly different, imaginative and fun!" Visit
www.colinrosemimc.co.uk to see the first of these new issues. Also
see the "Limited Editions & Special Purchases" section for some special
boxed wands available for Christmas.
28.10.06
Magicseen's
newly introduced downloadable PDF version has proved to be a big
success. Deputy Editor Graham Hey said: "We have already sold several
hundred copies through the format; many to readers in the United States
and beyond. In the past, countries such as Australia have not had great
access to magicseen purely because of the massive postal charges involved.
Issue 11 features an exclusive interview with magicseen fan Paul Daniels,
Spain's Antonio Romero and Tony Chapek from the US. There's a special
section on Book Tests by Max Maven and a brilliant David Stone Masterclass
- where he reveals three of his effects." Available now as a download from
www.magicseen.co.uk
for £3.00 (the printed version will go out shortly to all
subscribers).
28.10.06
Mind
control expert Drew McAdam and escapologist Tom Lyon guest in a
special Halloween edition of Ready Steady Cook at 4.30pm on Tuesday 31st
October on BBC2. Drew reads Ainsley Harriott's mind and Ainsley challenges
Tom to escape from a pair of handcuffs. When you see the results you'll
wonder if Drew also used his mind powers on the studio audience when it came to
the final vote!
28.10.06
El
Loco's 200th show this year... "Blockbookers Ltd are pleased to
announce El Loco's 200th show this year will be at the Portsmouth Magic
Gala. After a fantastic first year with Blockbookers Ltd El Loco is no
longer magic's best kept secret! El has been all over the country on the
Pontins and Britannia Hotel circuit, flew to Marrakech for a one-nighter
and had a fantastic response from the opening night of Mystique at the
Pleasure Beach Blackpool. Next year is bigger, better and busier than
ever, his act has been revamped and even includes an animatronic gargoyle!
2007 sees El's first Middle East tour and first cruise. Look out for El
Loco and The Dentist Chair at a venue near you!"
www.jumboday.co.uk.
28.10.06
Safire
Illusionists (Stuart and Jayne) are appearing at The Albert Halls,
Bolton, in Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp from 1st December 2006 to
7th January 2007. The couple will present their illusion act, play the
parts of "Slave of the Ring" and the Genie, and will also stage a UV
sequence, taken from their Magic Light Puppet Company show. The Box office
number is 01204 334400 or visit
www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk.
28.10.06
A
Haunting We Will Go - released on DVD. Dante the Magician makes a rare
cinematic appearance in this classic Laurel and Hardy adventure from 1942.
Dale Shrimpton emails: "It gives a taste of what his show may have been
like for those of us too young to have ever seen his show in the flesh.
Laurel and Hardy get mixed up with some gangsters, and the body of one of
their victims, which has been hidden in a coffin. This coffin is one of
Dante's props, used in his show, as a target for the cannon illusion, but
things turn tricky when the gangsters turn up to see what's happened to
the coffin, and the corpse... During the film we get to see Dante perform
some small magical effects to children on a train, and his version of
Asrah, together with some of Dante's larger apparatus, and set dressings."
Also look out for an appearance from Harry Blackstone Snr. To order from
Amazon.co.uk
Click Here.
28.10.06
Max
Somerset can be seen on a special Halloween edition of Blue Peter at
5pm on Tuesday 31st October on BBC1 performing an
unusual illusion live in the Blue Peter garden.
www.maxmagic.co.uk.
28.10.06
Dave
Bonsall has just returned from Istanbul, where he starred in a
commercial for Turkish television. Production company Filmclub Productions
contacted over 150 magicians worldwide looking for a magician "to
magically produce silk scarves from thin air" whilst strolling arm in arm
with beautiful models, on a catwalk. Dave produced six scarves and a silk
fountain, with three additional "flash" productions as well as a silk
colour change effect, that he invented on the day. The commercial, which
will last for 35 seconds, will be shown on Turkish television and in
shopping malls and Dave hopes to have a copy to run on his website in a
few weeks.
www.fingertipmiracles.co.uk.
28.10.06
The
Prestige tops box office. The Prestige has topped the US box office.
The film starring Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman and Michael Caine took
$14.8 million over the weekend. Martin Scorsese's The Departed stayed in
second place, while Clint Eastwood's Flags of Our Fathers entered the
chart in third place.
The Prestige
will be featured on Film 2006 with Jonathan Ross on Monday 30th
October at 11.15pm on BBC1 and opens in across the UK on November 10th.
28.10.06
Graham Lee's next Care & Share Balloon Jam/Workshop Funday is in Exeter on Wednesday November 8th. The day runs from 10am - 6pm and is free to attend. Sponsored by Sempertex Balloons, Graham will present two lectures, "beginners" and "advanced" - visit www.balloonartwholesale.co.uk for more information. 28.10.06
Sean
Heydon presents his "Onion Rings" lecture at the Associated Wizards of
the South on November 7th. Associated Wizards of the South, Woolston
Conservative Club, 74 St Annes Road, Woolston, Southampton. The cost of
the lecture is £5.00. All magicians welcome. The evening starts at 8pm.
Contact Phil Wegbrow 07739 407147 to reserve a place
wedgbrowsensei@yahoo.co.uk.
28.10.06
Al Smith's Abacus magazine. Paul Gordon emails: "As Al Smith is totally PC-shy (no email, web or PC), I thought readers might like to know that his star-studded magic magazine Abacus will soon (early/mid 2007) be available in book form. Possibly only the card magic. And, as there are over 400 tricks, possibly in more than one book! Some of the best names in magic contributed to Abacus; a simply excellent magazine! Ed Marlo, Marty Kane, Peter Duffie... on & on! Abacus ran for ten years (monthly) from 1992 to 2002. If you want to be kept informed - email info@paulgordon.net and I'll tell Al Smith that you are interested." 28.10.06
Another busy week Martin "Lightning" Sanderson. Having just spent two days working at the Olympia Storage Expo Martin was heading out to Nice, France for an Internet Exhibition when ten minutes into the flight there was a thunderous explosion and a flash of bright red light... the plane went quiet (even Martin stopped talking) and the Captain announced that the plane had just been hit by lightening and that they may have to make an emergency landing. However all was well and after a shake-up the passengers all landed in Nice. And through it all Martin could think about apparently was "did I get my purchase orders cleared before I left?" - what a pro! Also see: "Royal magician will entertain at our ball" Click Here www.sanderson-magic.com. 28.10.06
"Magician has award judges spellbound" Click Here • "TV magician the reward for staff" Click Here • "Local illusionist makes magic a science" Click Here • There are two conventions on this Sunday, see Conventions • Best of luck to all the competitors in this year's Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year Competition on Sunday - we'll bring you the results next week, see you then, Duncan. 28.10.06