Number 614 - 31st March 2012

 

Fay Presto MIMC - Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year 2012. The Magic Circle Press Office reports: This year’s competition for the Devano Trophy, and the title of The Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year 2012, was a very close fought battle between eight top magicians. Held in The Devant Room at The Magic Circle’s Headquarters, the deserving and popular winner was Fay Presto MIMC who made the room sparkle when she came on to perform her unique, restaurant themed act. The act featured a recreation of a life-size restaurant table, complete with champagne, black-tie waiter and background ‘atmosphere’ effects! Fay raced through her signature effects including her famous bottle through table routine, ‘brainwave’ prediction and floating banknote much to the obvious delight of the invited ‘lay’ audience at The Magic Circle. Fay Presto said at the post awards reception, "Winning the award was delightful, however I was deeply touched by the wave of appreciation I received from my peers as my name was called out in The Magic Circle Theatre. A huge thank you to all the judges and the audience." Second place went to James Freedman MIMC, and third to new member Rob James MMC. The Originality Prize was awarded to Steve Price AIMC for an act themed around impossible objects.

 

Marvin Berglas MIMC, Nick Einhorn MIMC, Wayne Dobson MIMC judged, together with three members of the public. The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year competition was founded in 1967 and previous winners include on three occasions Michael Vincent MIMC, the late Ali Bongo MIMC and John van der Put AIMC. For more information about the awards and The Magic Circle, visit www.themagiccircle.co.uk. 31.3.12

 

The Essential Magic Conference is back on the 27th, 28th and 29th of July for the third and final event in the Essential Magic Conference Trilogy. 33 Magicians, 3 Days of Magic. The Essential Magic Conference is the world’s first digital conference for magic and magicians. Watch live via the internet. Watch all sessions online and on demand for one year, and also receive an 8 DVD Box set of all the sessions once the conference is over (mailed post free worldwide). Register for the EMC2012 and get a 25% discount on all Essential Magic Collection products. This includes the highly praised DVDs of Dani DaOrtiz, Lennart Green, René Lavand and many other great magicians. Register before May 31st for the Essential Magic Conference to receive your 25% Discount. Every Early Bird Member will be automatically entered into a Prize Draw featuring $1,000 in prizes sponsored by Murphy’s Magic Supplies. Register before 31st May for free entry. Speakers for 2012 will be announced shortly. The Conference package is US $99 or EUR €75. www.essentialmagicconference.com. MagicWeek is delighted to once again be an EMC Media Partner in this, their final year. 31.3.12

 

The David Berglas Award 2012. The last two weeks have been quite a time for Anthony Owen. On Tuesday 20th March he received a Royal Television Society Award as one of the producers of the Derren Brown series "The Experiments", and on Saturday, 24th March he attended the British Magical Society dinner in Birmingham to receive their top honour 'The David Berglas Award' presented by David Berglas himself.

 

Formed in Birmingham in 1905, The British Magical Society is the oldest magical society in Europe. The first President was David Devant, who was also the first President of The Magic Circle. This Trophy is awarded annually to a British magician 'For services to magic in general or performing ability.' The previous recipients of this Award have been Peter Warlock, Paul Daniels, John Fisher, Ali Bongo, Alan Shaxon, Pat Page, Roy Johnson, Ron MacMillan, David Berglas, Donald Bevan, Wayne Dobson, Jeffery Atkins, Derek Lever, Edwin Dawes, Elizabeth Warlock, Geoffrey Durham, Alex Elmsley, Paul Kieve, Mark Raffles, Terry Herbert, Roy Walton, Bob Hamilton, and in 2011, Derren Brown. This years' recipient was Anthony Owen, who was delighted to receive the award from David Berglas himself. This was the 25th year that David Berglas has presented the award, which can only go to a British magician as opposed to 'The David Berglas International Award', which he presents annually at the International Magic Convention in London. 31.3.12

 

The Edinburgh International Magic Festival is once again bringing cutting edge magical theatre to the masses. Last year’s festival received rave reviews and brought live magic to more than 5,000 people. This year’s festival programme officially launches at the end of April offering mix of Classic Magic, Close-up Magic and Mind Reading. In response to last year’s sell-out Magic & Variety Gala Opening night, there will be an afternoon Gala preview, giving you the opportunity to see many of the world’s finest magicians for just £10. MagicFest, Managing Director, Svetlana McMahon said, “We believe magic is at its best when seen live on stage with your own eyes, and ticket sales show the public agree. Half of the evening tickets for the Magic & Variety Gala Opening night on 29th June have now gone, which is a tremendous achievement considering we have yet to announce the line-up.” MagicFest, Artistic Director, Kevin McMahon added, “Magic is the dream that any impossible challenge can be overcome. MagicFest aims to inspire the audience in every show and to spotlight the Art of Magic like no other event on a national scale.” Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of mystery and illusion from the 29th June – 6th July. Be amazed, see things differently and “unbelieve it” at the Edinburgh International Magic Festival 2012. Visit www.magicfest.co.uk for full details. (Photo: 'Magic School' - one of the special events that together form the Edinburgh International Magic Festival). 31.3.12

 

Mat Ricardo's London Varieties returns to the Bethnal Green Workingmen's Club. Award winning cabaret performer Mat Ricardo hosts another unique night of variety and comedy on April 12th. Featuring... Straight from his Royal Variety Performance 'The Boy With Tape On His Face'; The Time-Travelling magicians who fooled Penn & Teller Morgan & West; The astonishing shadowgraphy of Paul Dabek; And in performance and in conversation... The King of Light Entertainment Lenny Beige. Plus, a whole new routine from Mat Ricardo, more archive variety footage, surprises, and Mat Ricardo, Josephine Shaker and Laurie Hagen will lead a mass cabaret all-stars tap dance! Bethnal Green Workingmen's Club, 42-46 Pollard Row, London E2 6NB (Map) on Thursday April 12th, Doors 7pm, Show 8pm, Tickets are available to buy in advance, for £10, Click Here. More information: matricardo.blogspot.co.uk. Mat Ricardo at The Magic Circle Click Here. 31.3.12

 

Magic UnCorked: April 27th to 29th. Magic UnCorked The Irish Magic Convention 2012, will take place in Cork City over the weekend of April 27th to 29th: "Sponsored by SoHo Bar and Restaurant, this unique event will attract magicians from all across Ireland, the UK, and beyond, for a fun filled weekend of magic and entertainment. The convention itself will take place in the Ambassador Hotel, Military Hill. Our guest lecturers include some of the best in the business, from multi award winners to TV consultants. (Photo: Helder Guimarães, one of the best card magicians in the world. Originally from Portugal, and now based in the US, Helder has won numerous awards, the most prestigious of which was being crowned World Champion of Magic in 2006!)" To read the full article which offers a complete overview of the convention Click Here. www.magicuncorked.com. 31.3.12

 

Sean Alexander - The Confusionist: "Sean Alexander's brand new grand illusion show, featuring some of the most stunning illusions ever to be seen in the region. Starring Sean Alexander - The Confusionist. The show opens on Saturday 31st March at Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park in Lowestoft, Suffolk and is the main feature of 5 brand new attractions at the park this year. The trailer for the show can be seen at YouTube and further information and ticket details can be found at www.seanalexandermagic.com and www.pleasurewoodhills.com." 31.3.12

 

Conjuring at the Court – Thursday 26th April: "A fabulous variety evening with Punch and Judy for grown-ups by John Styles, comedy illusionists Carl & Dave, and the spectacular manipulation of FISM winner Roy Davenport. Doors open 7.30pm and show starts at 8pm. Tickets still just £10 from www.conjuringatthecourt.com. Why not get there early to enjoy a great dinner and reserve a seat for the show! It’s just 12 minutes from Central London by overground rail from Paddington to West Ealing, and the pub is just 2 minutes walk from the station. Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing, London W13 8PH (Map)." 31.3.12

 

Harry Robson lectures at The Order of The Magi (Manchester) on Tuesday 10th April at 8pm. Directions to the venue are on www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. Harry has lectured over 100 times during the past 10 years for more than 30 societies in both the UK and Europe. Aimed at magical societies, the lecture is in two halves; performance and explanation, with a short break. At the end of the evening Harry will be happy to hold a workshop for half an hour with the members of the society so people can put in to practice some of Harry's effects. Harry's working commercial effects are for sale at the end of the evening. Door charge for non members. Geoffrey Newton PRO. (Also see www.harryrobsonmagic.co.uk). 31.3.12

 

Alex Crow: The Miracle of the Mind. Alex Crow presents his full evening show at The Brickhouse from 3rd April - 5th May, Tuesday - Saturday, except April 10th, 17th and 24th. Visit www.thebrickhouse.co.uk for full details. 31.3.12

 

Jon van der Put (Piff the Magic Dragon!) lectures at the Winchester Magic Society on Thursday, 5th April. As we went to press details of the lecture were unknown, but you can be sure it will be an excellent evening full of fresh original magic. Members are free and visiting magicians are welcome for a £5 entrance fee. The lecture takes place in Badgers Farm Community Centre at 8pm for full details contact Philip Smith: philipksmith@themagiccircle.co.uk www.winchestermagic.com. 31.3.12

 

Paul Gordon's Card Capers Day of Magic - Newcastle. "Card Capers comes to Newcastle! Card Capers is a full day of powerful magic, lecturing, tuition, performance, advice/tips, stories and lots of fun from professional card magician, Paul Gordon. It's a fast-paced jam-packed day. See the webpage for reviews, video clips etc." Only £40 for the day; advance booking only. Sunday 16th September 2012 at 9.30am to 6pm. Venue: The Centurion Bar, Newcastle Central Station, Neville Street, Newcastle NE1 5DG (Map) www.paulgordon.net/cardcapers.html. 31.3.12

 

Luca Volpe Lecture - North Wales Magic Circle. Mark Thorold writes: The North Wales Magic Circle is very proud and excited to announce that Luca Volpe ,top Italian magician will be guest lecturer on Tuesday 3rd of April at the new Prestatyn HQ. He will be presenting new material from his upcoming 'In My Mind 2' DVD and generally aiming to confuse and blow his audiences minds. Further information can be found at the North Wales Magic Circle website. 31.3.12

 

Mark James: Comedy & Conjuring, Salford, April 1st. Mark's new one-man show 'Comedy & Conjuring', featuring lots of new material can be seen at The Kings Arms, Salford, M3 6AN on Sunday April 1st. "The show combines a mixture of comedy, magic, visual gags, audience participation and awkward moments." The venue does not allow children. Tomorrow, Sunday 1st April at 9pm. Tickets, £6 on the door. Any questions email livemagician@live.co.uk. 31.3.12

 

Confessions of Real Mindreaders... The Live Interview: "Submit your questions and learn from John in a totally new way on 12th April. John Will Talk About: 1. Scripting and editing. This is something very close to John’s heart, and is something that is not given enough attention by most performers. This was first discussed briefly at The Session convention, where it was received very well by all. This is a very rare opportunity to get inside the mind of one of the world’s most entertaining comedy performers. 2. John’s unique approach to Visa Cabaret, which takes it away from knowing which pocket they put stuff in. 3. His real-time Q&A approach that he’s using with the Mind Buster pad." Click Here for details. 31.3.12

 

Magic Noir an Evening of Comedy Magic Entertainment with Paul Abbey, Mandy Farrell and Martin Cox on Saturday 7th April at Furneux Pelham Village Hall, Furneux Pelham, Hertfordshire SG19 0LL. With a Bar. Doors at 7.30pm Box Office 01279 659562 Prices £12.00 on door, Advance £10.00, Concessions £9.00. 31.3.12

 

American Magician, Joe Monti will be lecturing in the UK in September 2012. Sean Lobban writes: Joe’s lecture promises to be a “not to be missed” event. It will be a special experience because of the tremendous amount of ground that it will cover. National TV, Multi Million Dollar Live Las Vegas Shows, Close-up, Stage, Parlour, Children's shows, Cruise Ships, Private shows, Trade Shows, Inventing (Joe has two patents) and the list goes on. Joe Monti has been a TV producer for 3 solid years as well as a TV contestant on a massively successful Invention Show during primetime US TV (14 million viewers) coming in 2nd place to a million dollars (winning $50,000). This lecture is loaded with more information than you’ll be able to sit still for. Joe Monti’s approach is fresh, honest and cuts to the point. Real world information and a lot of practical card, coin and miscellaneous handlings that have been underground for years. No one snoozes at this lecture. Watch, participate, ask questions, etc. It’s all here. For those who want to really bust knuckles Joe also has a 4 hour intensive workshop for the advanced coin and card men/woman that takes handlings with objects and real world stage and close-up psychology to a skyscraper level of skill and entertainment. If you would like Joe to lecture at your club or would like to host a workshop, contact tour organiser, Sean Lobban: mistertall@mistertall.co.uk (See What's On for September dates booked to date). 31.3.12

 

The Order of the Magi annual dinner. Geoffrey Newton PRO writes: The Order of the Magi annual dinner took place on Saturday 24th March 2012, where 70 members and guests joined President Mike Sharples, his lady Nicky (left) together with IBM British Ring President Brian Miller and his lady Audrey at the Irish World Heritage Centre in Manchester. After a four course tasty meal of generous portions President Brian proposed a toast to the Magi with humorous reflections on life. The cabaret featured the comedy magic of Mark James who also acted as compere introducing Brian Sefton who presented his well known dove act and High Jinx with comedy and illusions. All acts were well received by a very appreciative audience. The first meeting of the new session is on Tuesday 10th April when Harry Robson will be lecturing. Directions are on www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. Door charge for non members. 31.3.12

 

Pete Firman discusses his new tour Jiggery Pokery, BBC1's The Magicians, his favourite magic trick and his life at university in this exclusive interview with magician and journalist Laurence Gibbons: Part 1; Part 2; Part 3; Part 4. See What's On for current tour dates. 31.3.12

 

Magic Night, Madame JoJo's - London. "Magic Night floats like a butterfly and stings like sharp citric fruit with slicing cards, vanishing birds, musical instruments, Euro trash magic and some interesting fruit! Is it a bird is it a violin? No, it’s both, as Oliver Tabor produces seamless illusions at Magic Night whilst Card Ninja makes an ordinary deck of cards slice and fly through the air in Ninja like feats that would make a crouching tiger and hidden dragon stand and applaud. Dave Loosly (or Magic Dave as he’s known in the trade) has tricky moments with fruit whilst Tricity Vogue strums her ukulele and Tony Garrulo, the Euro trash trickster, does things to his body to make you crease. All expertly presided over by mental trickster Magic Neil (or Neil Henry as he is more commonly known to utility companies.)" Friday 20th April. Doors open 7pm show starts at 7.45pm. Tickets £12 including entry to 'Good Foot'. Show ticket plus dinner: £24.00. Tickets: www.ticketweb.co.uk www.lastminute.com or Ticket Web on 08444 77 1000. Madame JoJo’s, 8-10 Brewer Street, London W1F 0SE (Map) 020 734 3040 www.magicnight.co.uk. 31.3.12

 

The Associated Wizards of the South One-day Convention - Sunday April 22nd. At Crossfield Hall, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 8GL (Map). Lee Smith, Scott Penrose and Wayne Fox all lecture, and the evening show will star Scott Penrose, Phill Smith, Mel Mellers, Matt Baker and Jason Steel. The day also includes magic dealers, workshops and close-up sessions. Advance registration will open in a few weeks time at £20, or £22.50 on the door. For an extra £10 you can become an associate member and attend club nights and lectures throughout the year. Doors open at 9.30am. www.awsmagic.co.uk. 31.3.12

 

The Surrey Society of Magicians 21st Anniversary. John Field reports: "The Surrey Society of Magicians celebrated its 21st Anniversary in style last Saturday with its annual dinner at the Bookham Grange Hotel. All of the usual festivities took place with an outstanding cabaret from acts Beastro and Mr Eerius. The largely lay audience also enjoyed table hopping from the members. To celebrate the occasion, four of the founder members attending were presented with a specially iced birthday cake. They can be seen in the picture and are Tony Peach, Colin Peters, Steve Day and John Field. Geoff Pescud assisted by Collin Richardson organised the event." 31.3.12

 

News from The Twins: "The Twins FX are once again creating magical special effects in the touring production of "All the Fun of the Fair" with David Essex. The hit musical All the Fun of the Fair has toured nationally following a record breaking West End season at the Garrick Theatre where it was nominated for Best New West End Musical 2010 by 'What's On Stage'. David Essex and Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway invite you to a roller coaster ride of a musical, underscored by a helter- skelter of David Essex hits and album favourites. The show is on its final few venues after a very successful tour - catch it while you can at Sheffield, Eastbourne and Wolverhampton and see a flying motorbike soar over the heads of the audience, courtesy of The Twins FX! Check out www.allthefunofthefairmusical.com or www.thetwinsfx.com." 31.3.12

 

Wilton's Magic Show. "Katherine Rhodes returns with a pinch of audience participation, some classic tricks and some new experiments. Watch out as she will surprise even the most sceptical amongst you. As well as floating Wilton's Artist Director, and cutting our office staff in half, Katherine has acted as a magical advisor and designer on many projects including producing singer Marc Almond from an empty coffin. We first fell in love with her in 2010 when she performed here as a guest artist. Engaging and performed with just the right amount of humour, this show is appropriate for any age. 4th April 2012 at 7.30pm. Full Price £10, Children £5. Book via: www.wiltons.org.uk Call: 0207 702 2789. Wilton's Music Hall, Graces Alley, London E1 8JB (Map). 31.3.12

 

Roy Zaltsman's Unpublished Magic Tutorials Project is growing fast. Over 1,200 magicians and mentalists from all over the world now receive free video clips with a magic tutorial by top-notch magicians such as Aaron Fisher, Joshua Jay, Thom Peterson, Flip Hallema, Manuel Muerte and Gregory Wilson. To join sign-up here: www.telepathy.co.il/unpublished. 31.3.12

 

Owen Lean won the London Society of Magicians stage competition last Tuesday evening. Also competing were Bob Pamplin, Ray Frost, Megan Rose Thomas and Mike Wysockyj www.roadmage.com. 31.3.12

 

Founder of famed magic show dies. "Cesareo Pelaez, the charismatic Cuban who escaped his native country and created the world's longest-running stage magic show in a renovated Beverly theater, died Saturday of congestive heart failure. He was 79." By Paul Leighton, staff writer The Eagle Tribune Click Here. "Cesareo R. Pelaez, psych prof, magician ‘Marco the Magi,’ 79" Click Here. "Pelaez's creation brought new life to tired downtown" Click Here. 31.3.12

 

Many Congratulation Russ and Bernice... Russ Stevens proposed live on stage at the Blackpool Convention in front of thousands, now here they are just a few weeks later... married in Las Vegas! Click Here • "Magicians set for Spa return" Click Here • "Britain’s 'worst magician' won’t be stopped by Cowell" Click Here • "Scots magician Ryan Davidson stuns with brilliant balloon street magic" Click Here • "Taiwanese to receive 'Magician of the Year' award in U.S." Click Here • "Weekender: Hans Klok, 43, magician. 'Everyone wishes they could fly or disappear, and I am able to do that'" Click Here • "A kind of magic" Click Here • "Why Magicians Are a Scientist’s Best Friend" Click Here • 'Egg, Sausage & Peas' is reviewed by Ben Hughes this week, Click Here • "Keen to magic up some new blood" Click Here • "Booking the cooks" Click Here • "'Godfather' actor, magician Tony Giorgio dies, 88" Click Here • "For his next trick... Paul Daniels knows how to make wife Debbie appear - she comes running to a high-pitched whistle" Click Here • Many thanks for your UK magic news, always welcomed. See you next week, Duncan. 31.3.12

 

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