Number 592 - 29th October 2011

 

Tommy Cooper's Secret Joke Files - compiled by John Fisher. For the first time the secret joke archives of the legendary comedian are opened up for all to enjoy. Relive the laughter with jokes on every subject from 'A for Absent-minded' to 'Z for Zoo'. Part of an ongoing series of books celebrating the Cooper legacy, Tommy Cooper's Secret Joke Files follows hot on the heels of John Fisher's bestselling The Tommy Cooper Joke Book and Tommy Cooper's Mirth, Magic and Mischief. Just published (just like that), hardcover, 176 pages, and crammed full of hundreds of jokes... "She was so beautiful, when I took her home in a taxi, I could hardly keep my eye on the meter". Order from Amazon.co.uk today and enjoy 48% off the published price. Click Here. Tommy Cooper's Secret Joke Files also includes a fascinating look at the painstaking process Tommy Cooper used to catalogue and index his material, and the fine tuning that turned an original thought, written down as a few random lines, into a brilliant one-liner. The perfect Christmas present and highly recommended. DT. (MagicWeek receives a commission on all Amazon.co.uk sales generated via a click-through from MagicWeek.) 29.10.11

 

Truly International... In just three weeks time on Saturday on November 19th, 17 competitors from 12 countries (including Japan, Canada, USA, France, Spain, Sweden, Russia, Denmark and Italy) will compete for the Kevin Reay Trophy along with a £1,000 cash in the International Close Up Competition at The Mermaid Theatre (photo) London. This event forms just part of the packed International Magic Convention weekend which includes lectures, close-up shows, a full evening Gala Show and the presentation of The David Berglas International Magic Award. Celebrating 40 years, the Convention is at the end of a week when the MacMillan family will also produce their very first Festival of Magic at the Bridewell Theatre. For full details of all the seminars, shows and events in both these talent-packed fixtures visit www.internationalmagic.com. 29.10.11

 

Houdini The Musical... "85 Years since he last amazed audiences, the greatest magician the world has ever known is back. Houdini The Musical is coming to London's West End in 2012. Featuring over sixteen of the most spectacular illusions ever staged..." More next week. 29.10.11

 

The Untold Tommy Cooper. Channel 4's Head of Comedy Shane Allen has commissioned Gogglebox Entertainment (a joint venture with Sony Pictures Television) and Noel Gay Television to produce a one-off special presenting the untold life of British national treasure, comedian and magician Tommy Cooper which is due for transmission late 2011. The ninety minute special will draw on previously unheard audio and unseen archive footage from Cooper's personal and professional life as well as never performed before material and details from the meticulous diaries of his life-long manager Miff Ferrie. It will also feature a wide variety of contributors from those who tried desperately to save his life the night he collapsed on stage to some of his most famous and unexpected fans. Gogglebox's Mat Steiner said "The discovery of this archive offers up new insights into Cooper's fascinating 35 year relationship with his manager and also how, in latter years, Cooper the family man and Cooper the legendary entertainer actually began to meld into one." 29.10.11

 

Brad Manuel UK Lectures. Sean Lobban writes: Australian Comedy Magician, Brad Manuel is dropping in to the South of England for a flying visit and lecturing at a few Magic Clubs while he's here. You can see him at Portsmouth Jumbo Day on Sunday November 6th, Medway Magical Society on Tuesday November 8th, Surrey Society of Magicians on Thursday 10th November and Northampton Magicians Club on Friday 11th November. Try to catch him while you can. Contact clubs for more details. www.bradmanuel.com. 29.10.11

 

Deception with Keith Barry on Quest. "Reading people, implanting thoughts, predicting behaviour and hacking into the subconscious may sound like science fiction, but one man does it - and will show you how. World-renowned mentalist Keith Barry delves into the mysteries of the mind, revealing how ordinary people can better harness their own abilities in Deception With Keith Barry. These skills have been seen on the stage in Vegas, but rarely have they been applied to the real world. In a variety of scenarios, from the everyday, such as turning the table on the car salesmen and showing what really happens when people buy and sell; to the extreme, when Barry turns his attentions to the cold war, in a series of mind experiments, which see him attempt mass hypnosis, program ordinary people to be spies and even create a sleeper agent, this fascinating series will have viewers on the edge of their seats." 9pm on Thursday 3rd November on Quest. See TV Magic. 29.10.11

 

Essential Classics with Rob Cowan. From 9am on Tuesday 1st November on BBC Radio Three. At 10.30am The Essential Classics guest is psychological illusionist Derren Brown, who introduces a piece played by a favourite performer and one that reminds him of a particular place. See TV Magic for radio and TV listings. 29.10.11

 

"Just a cup... this is not a Chop Cup!" New, from the ever inventive mind of Axel Hecklau: "This is a different method with much more flexibility; No hitting the table necessary; Everything can be examined without switches; More flexibility and confidence feeling for the performer; The routine has a instant reset - perfect for walk around magic; 360° full angle proof; Magic in the hands of a spectator; This is a piece for the working performer." Sounds good to me! Find out more and watch the video at www.axelhecklau-shop.com. 29.10.11

 

Portsmouth & District Magic Circle Jumbo Day - next Sunday. The line up for the 48th Annual Portsmouth Jumbo Day is now complete. The day starts at 9am with The Sale, featuring many new and second-hand dealers. Throughout the day there will be Merv Cole's 'Legendary' Auction, Bob Hamilton's films, two workshops featuring Coins and then Mentalism, a presentation about Tarot, and Close-up Sessions with four magicians. This year's Star Lecture will be by Australian Comedy Magician, Brad Manuel. Brad will only be in the UK for a few days, so this is a great opportunity to see him. The day ends with the Gala Show, which stars, Brad Manuel, John Kimmons, High Jinx, Neil Kelso and The Vox Brothers. All this for just £19.00 per person at the door. A real bargain! www.jumboday.co.uk Venue: Buckland Community Centre, Malins Road, Buckland, Portsmouth PO2 7BL (Map). 29.10.11

 

Magicseen November issue out now! Mark Leveridge writes: "Magicseen Issue 41 for November 2011 is a 'cracker' of an issue. The 'guys' on the top of the bonfire are Brynolf and Ljung from Sweden, who have 'rocketed' to prominence thanks to their award winning act. Alongside them we also have Peter Eggink from Holland and our very own (although we have tried repeatedly to disown him!), Graham Jolley, while Shawn Farquhar gives us the story of how the 'Catherine wheel' of fortune turned beautifully in his favour on the day he fooled Penn and Teller. So what else 'sparkles' in the latest issue? Well, we invite you to join us as we take a cross eyed squint at invisible thread, and that bright 'candle' of excellence Graham Lee provides much good information on balloon modelling in It Ain't All Magic. In fact the November issue really is a veritable box of fireworks with its 14 product reviews, reports on three live shows from across the UK, with its Masterclass trick to learn and Club Land featuring the Bristol Society of Magic, and with Graham Hey's Comedy page alongside letters, news and more. So get your copy now from www.magicseen.co.uk and start your month off with a 'bang'!" 29.10.11

 

Magical Cabaret Show - Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Alloway. Gold star member of The Magic Circle Paul Nardini will perform close-up magic during pre show drinks followed by his one hour cabaret show at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum this evening, Saturday 29th October, at 7.30pm. Tickets £12. Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Murdoch’s Lone, Alloway KA7 4PQ (Map) www.paulnardini.com. 29.10.11

 

Acting, Lying And Enjoying It. Ian Rowland writes: "I have produced some lecture notes entitled 'Acting, Lying And Enjoying It'. They are based on the material I used in my lectures in 2011, including my lectures at the 'Magic LIVE' Convention in Las Vegas and at the Magic Circle. 48 pages with lots of photos. Cards, mentalism and laughs. I am giving these lecture notes away free but using them to encourage magicians to give money to good causes..." For more details visit www.ianrowland.com/FreeNotes. 29.10.11

 

Theatr Colwyn and Panto Launch. Theatr Colwyn was officially re-opened after a year of renovation work by former Monty Python member Terry Jones who cut the red ribbon on the theatre's steps at a ceremony attended by officials, town councilors, comedian Phil Jupitus and this year's Pantomime Producers and Illusionists Stuart and Jayne Loughland. Terry Jones, who was born in Colwyn Bay, drew on his family's links to the theatre, including those of his grandfather, who was conductor for the Colwyn Bay Operatic Society and had led a production of Pirates of Penzance at the venue, in which his mother had performed. Panto directors Stuart and Jayne Loughland who are playing Dame Tilly Trott and Fairy Blossom were joined by fellow stars Neill Scullard who plays the Evil Mr. Creeper, Marc Whincup as Squire Crumble, and Libby Edwards as Jill and Steve Bloor who takes the title role of Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk which runs from December 17th-31st (See What's On). Jack and the Beanstalk holds as special place in the history of Theatr Colwyn. It was first performed at the venue back in 1909, before the building was closed for renovation – which included the installation of electric lights! 29.10.11

 

The Magic of Showbiz - A lecture for The Order of The Magi by Jonathan Royle. "Controversial Hypnotist - Psychic Entertainer and Magician Jonathan Royle presents his unique lecture for The Order of The Magi at 7.30pm on Tuesday, 22nd November. During the evening he will reveal Publicity, Marketing and Success Secrets and will also teach Hypnosis, NLP, Magic and Mentalism techniques that you won't learn anywhere else!" To book visit www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. Venue: The Order of the Magi, Irish World Heritage Centre, Queens Road, Manchester M8 8UF (Map). 29.10.11

 

Eric Jones Lectures for the Bath Circle of Magicians at 8.30pm on Thursday 3rd November. An award winning performer, Eric’s magic has been showcased at the world famous Magic Castle, CA, and NYC’s Monday Night Magic, the longest running magic show in New York. As an author, creator, and lecturer, Eric fits sharing some of his pet tricks with countless magicians across the country, including The World Magic Seminar, Nevada, into his busy schedule. Venue: St Mary’s Church Hall, Saltford, Near Bath BS31 3EL (Map) Visitors from local clubs welcome (£10 door charge). Enquiries/directions call Simon Lane 01225 313551 www.bathcircleofmagicians.com.  Eric Jones on YouTube Click Here. 29.10.11

 

Sam Fitton – North West Close Up Magic Champion 2011. On Monday 24th October 23 year old professional magician Sam Fitton was awarded the title ‘North West Close Up Magic Champion’ after winning the annual competition held at Manchester Circle of Magicians. His first ever competition, Sam competed against seven other magicians in a bid to win the top prize. “I’m absolutely thrilled to have been presented with this award,” Sam said, “it is an absolute honour.” www.samfitton.com. 29.10.11

 

Poz lectures at The Frinton Magic Triangle, Soken House, The Triangle Shopping Centre, Frinton on Sea CO13 0AU (Map) at 7.30pm on Thursday 10th November. Guests welcome, admission £5.00. Long regarded as one of the country's top children’s entertainers. Keith Norman Hon. Secretary, Frinton Magic Triangle. 29.10.11

 

Steve Faulkner will be the star lecturer at Blackpool Magicians' Club on Tuesday, 8th November. Steve has been a full-time professional magician for the last ten years, and has worked as a street performer since 1996. Specialising in both close-up and stage magic, Steve is one of the few who manage to blend humour and entertainment with a high level of skill and dexterity. With strict criteria (that every routine he performs has to be entertaining for the lay person) all of Steve’s material is memorable, easy to follow and rewarding to learn. He truly believes that we can all learn anything if we approach it in the right way and is proof that someone who is naturally cack-handed can learn the most difficult sleights, and become an accomplished performer with the right attitude. Steve’s recent book, Go Do, explores his thoughts on keeping motivated whilst achieving your full potential and he will be sharing his methods on this in the lecture. The lecture will appeal to all levels, from beginners to move-monkeys and, because of Steve’s disappointment with many lectures he has attended it promises to be a truly entertaining event. Peter Eldin. www.blackpoolmagic.com. 29.10.11

 

Young & Strange, An Evening of Magic, Comedy and Illusion. On Friday 4th November at The Mill Arts Centre, Banbury at 7.30pm. A spectacular, fast paced and engaging magic comedy and illusion show, performed by double act “Young and Strange”. This show features state of the art stage illusions and intimate sleight of hand magic effects never seen before at The Mill. The show is entwined with a comedy thread with the emphasis being pure entertainment. Young & Strange were recently featured performers on ITV1's; Penn and Teller; Fool Us. Tickets £14 from The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 5QE (Map) Box Office 01295 279002. www.youngandstrange.co.uk. 29.10.11

 

Kidbiz Live Lecture! David Ginn, London, Friday, November 11th at 7pm. The Kidbiz Live Lecture!, Davdi Ginn's only UK lecture this year, contains 95% new material. Admission £10 (includes free DVD for the first 40 people to book. Just tell Bob Pamplin that you are going and they will put you on the free DVD list). London Society of Magicians, Davenports Magic Studio, 7 Charing Cross Underground Arcade, The Strand, London WC2N 4HZ www.lsmmagic.co.uk. Contact Bob Pamplin 07831 274263 or 020 8504 0979 or email tickets@lsmmagic.co.uk. 29.10.11

 

Cheltenham's only live magic show, "An Evening of Deception", is back for an extended run in 2012: "The show returns to The Everyman Theatre from February 22nd-25th 2012. Compère Steve Knibbs will once again be joined by Gloucestershire magician Andi Gladwin; with more performers yet to be announced. The show completely sold out its last two runs as it brings live magic back to the birthplace of J N Maskeleyne." For updates follow the team on twitter @eodeception, join their new Facebook page Click Here or sign up to their mailing list Click Here Finally, and more importantly, to book tickets Click Here. 29.10.11

 

John Carey Lecture at Ilford Magical Society, 26th November 2011, reported by Bryan Porter. Members of Ilford Magical Society enjoyed a lecture given by John (Handle with) Carey last Wednesday and what a great lecture it was. John shared around sixteen or so effects from his professional repertoire working with coins, cards, banknotes and Paracetamol tablets - carefully and clearly explaining the finer points of the handling of each effect. All present were able to take something away from the lecture. In addition to explaining his effects John also answered many questions and gave valuable tips based on his experience working with a lay audience. Highly recommended. Bryan Porter, President, Ilford Magical Society www.ilfordmagic.com. 29.10.11

 

Brian Lord, stalwart of the Leicester Magic Circle, celebrates his 80th birthday on November 7th with a night devoted to old tricks including a rare antique magic prop; followed by items from his speaking engagements. www.leicestermagiccircle.co.uk. 29.10.11

 

Magician and Mind Reader David Gemmell plays the evil BlackHeart in Jack and the Beanstalk at Cwm Rhymney Comprehensive School, Blackwood, Newport this evening. David has been a member of FADAMS for about 6 months and enjoys helping the cast in their projects www.gemmellmagic.co.uk. 29.10.11

 

Richard Osterlind's Grismer Lock. Steve Cook emails: "The newly-released Richard Osterlind DVDs feature Richard's 'Grismer Lock' routine (Performance only). The 'Grismer Lock' is exclusively available from myself. New stock is due in about a week. Very limited supplies! Only a small number released each year, in compliance with (the late) Ray Grismer's wishes to keep it very exclusive. Contact me for an update on supplies, plus price and delivery details etc, on this mechanical masterpiece - the world's most exclusive magical lock! Thanks. steve.cook243@ntlworld.com." 29.10.11

 

Jim Reilly MIMC correction. Andrew Van Buren emails: "In the October issue of The Magic Circular is the announcement that New Zealand based magician Jim Reilly MIMC with gold star has died aged 83. We this morning (Friday) received a call from a very distraught and very alive Jim Reilly asking if I could make some sense of this and sort this mistake out for him. Jim is alive and very well." Andrew Van Buren www.vanburen.org.uk. 29.10.11

 

"The trick to a good magic show. Master magician Greg Frewin says it's all about theatre, illusion and good old-fashioned entertainment" Click Here • "Magicians say their craft makes them see faith as just hocus-pocus" Click Here • "New Hollywood bar embraces magic" Click Here • "Which Hollywood Actress Carries The Magic For Burt Wonderstone?" Click Here • "Magician Max Maven Reads My Mind" Click Here • "Penn Jillette’s 10 Commandments for atheists" Click Here • "Two guys walk into a club, and presto! They're running it" Click Here • "Criss Angel celebrates third anniversary of Believe, new levitation" Click Here • "Houdini bust reappears after 20-year absence" Click Here • "Bid to save home of Bengali magic legend PC Sorcar" Click Here • "'Theatre of Illusion' offers cutting-edge spectacle in Fairfield" Click Here • "Magician or Mentalist, Max Maven is Mentally Amazing" Click Here • Body magic Click Here • Lots happening both live and on TV at the moment. Many thanks for all your news items, see you next week, Duncan. 29.10.11

 

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