Number 813 - 23rd January 2016

The Secret is finally revealed. New for Spring 2016, a world's first one-of-a-kind experience like you have never seen before arrives at Thorpe Park Resort. Derren Brown's top secret attraction that he has been working on with Thorpe Park Resort can finally be announced... It's a Ghost Train re-invented for the 21st Century. First visuals just released reveal a seven tonne Victorian Carriage suspended in mid-air.

Derren Brown’s Ghost Train, which can only be found at Thorpe Park Resort, is a head-spinning train journey of between 10-15 minutes, the like of which guests will never have taken before; providing a heady mixture of exhilarating live action sequences, 4D special effects, grand-scale illusions, next generation technology, and physical transit. No place for spectators, guests will play a major part in the action which will leave them questioning where perception ends and reality begins.

Thorpe Park Resort’s biggest and most ambitious investment to date, Derren Brown’s Ghost Train takes theme park attractions to a whole new level, promising to derail guests’ minds with a series of multi-sensory experiences. Like its inventor, this is a smart ride that also has 12 multiple knee-shaking journeys and two endings - so not only will no two ‘rides’ on board Derren Brown’s Ghost Train be the same but every journey will provoke an intense response and reaction in each individual ‘passenger.’ So whilst guests may share the journey with others, the experience will be an individual one – and every journey, every sensation and every fear will be quite unique.

Derren Brown said: "Visitors can look forward to experiencing a heady and heart stopping combination of next generation technology, grand illusion, special effects and live action that will completely rewrite the rules of what a theme park attraction can deliver. I firmly believe that this kind of multi-sensory, mind blowing attraction represents a glimpse of what the future holds for theme parks the world over."

For more information and to book visit www.mindswanted.co.uk. 23.1.16

New Magic Shop opens in Southborough, Tunbridge Wells. Professional magician Adam Smith and his partner Jax Rose have opened a new magic shop in Southborough, Tunbridge Wells. AJ Magic at 154 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells TN4 0PJ (Map) supplies magic for beginners to experts, with all the latest effects from close-up to stage. The shop features a demonstration area and also 'Magics Lost Room', which is a must-see. For more information call 01892 539934 or 07920772792 www.adams-magic.co.uk. 23.1.16

Paul Zenon in Linking Rings, Jermyn Street Theatre, London - opens this week. A theatrical coming of age for TV man of magic: ‘Houdini’s right-hand man deals with the death of his boss. A half century later, a Blackpool joke shop proprietor takes on a wide-eyed young protégé. Linking Rings is an affectionate look at a misspent youth and unsung heroes; a touching true tale of interlocking lives. Not a magic show – magical nonetheless.’

Over the years, Paul has pushed himself consistently to explore new avenues – from performer to pundit, presenter to paranormal sceptic and author to actor. His career started as a real-life sorcerer’s apprentice in a seaside magic shop, prior to his first television break courtesy of the ITV talent show New Faces. Paul fronted the Children’s BBC series Tricky Business and Tricks n Tracks in the early 90s and since then he has appeared on dozens of TV programmes across many genres, including five one-man Street Magic specials on Channel 4 and ITV1 and around a hundred appearances as special guest in Countdown’s Dictionary Corner. He is a Gold Star Member of the Inner Magic Circle, and last October received the prestigious Carlton Award for Comedy.

Partly autobiographical, Linking Rings is Paul’s first self-penned theatre piece, marking another exciting change of direction and also a return to acting. The show received much critical acclaim at the 2015 Brighton and Edinburgh Fringe Festivals, including 5 star reviews from the Edinburgh Evening News, The List and Fringe Review. Its London debut will take place at the Jermyn Street Theatre in January 2016. Running Time: 75 minutes (no interval). Suitable for age 14+. 25th - 30th January 2016. Show Times: Monday to Saturday 8pm, Saturday Matinee 4pm. For more info and to book visit www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk also see facebook.com/paulzenonlinkingrings. 23.1.16

‘Das Spiel: Are You Part of the Game?’ The Game has found you. As you read this you are becoming part of it. You are part of The Game. Das Spiel is a psychological immersive theatre show, a mindreading experience blurring the lines between performance and reality. Imagine being unsure if someone else has planned your greatest moments. You discover more only by playing. This Game is different. As you play, it becomes larger than you. It reaches into your past and creates the present. It makes you comfortably uncomfortable. The players are different every night and therefore The Game is different every night. Play The Game and let The Game play you. Written and performed by Philipp Oberlohr, theatre-maker, performer and illusionist.
"Intelligent, artistic, very funny" ★★★★★ Everything Theatre
"This feels personal." ★★★★★ Theatre Fullstop
"It’s funny, very funny." ★★★★ The Londonist

7.15pm 10th-14th February. Plus Matinee 4.30pm 14th February. Tickets £12.
The Cage, Vault Festival, London www.vaultfestival.com. 23.1.16

Making Magic. DMC writes: In early December I received a very sweet message from a fan in Senegal, explaining how his dream was to meet me in person. And so, on Boxing day at 6am I flew to Dakar to surprise him... and this video is the result. We also filmed this video of the classic Chinese Linking Rings last week in India - enjoy! 23.1.16

Steve Short's 'Supreme Magic Company' lecture, Leeds Magic Circle: "Steve Short AIMC will be presenting a lecture at Leeds Magic Circle on the most famous magic company in the world: The Supreme Magic Company. The format will start with a PowerPoint presentation with photos and video clips telling the story of how Edwin Hooper started the firm in 1953, funded by his Punch and Judy shows on the beach at Woolacombe. After the break, Steve will demonstrate and show some of Supreme’s exclusive props including close-up magic, children’s effects, mentalism and more. This will be a nostalgic evening bringing back memories for many magicians. January 26th at 7.30pm at St John's Church Hall, Harrogate Road, Moortown, Leeds LS17 7BZ (Map)." For more info contact Alan Beet alan.beet@yahoo.co.uk. 23.1.16

The Magicians' Podcast launches season three this week with a double bill featuring host Richard Young's stage partner Sam Strange and Canadian illusionist Darcy Oake. Listen to both and catch up with previous editions at magicianspodcast.podbean.com. Also see www.facebook.com/MagiciansPodcast. 23.1.16

Don Simpson's 'If I can do it, so can you!' magic lecture is now taking bookings for the year ahead, see the Lecturers page for details. 23.1.16

The Card Shark Show starring Steve Truglia enters its 4th year: "Enter the dark and dangerous world of the Card Shark. From the middle ages through Wild West saloon bars to murderous gangsters, discover how sleight of hand techniques honed by hardened gamblers influenced modern card magic. One of the UK’s foremost magicians and expert close up magic star Steve Truglia amazes London audiences with classic card tricks, cheats and scams in this brand new and interactive multimedia show with film, images, music and live camera action. See world class sleight of hand card magic like never before. The Card Shark Show is showing in the stunning 5 star luxury, intimate private cinema / theatre of the Courthouse Hotel, in London's Great Marlborough Street W1. An historic Grade II listed building which was formerly the Marlborough Street Magistrates Court. Charles Dickens worked in the building in 1835, and many famous people were tried in the court, including Oscar Wilde, Mick Jagger and John Lennon. The courtroom is now the hotel restaurant Silk, and features the original judge's bench, dock and witness stand." See What's On for dates or book via: www.thecardsharkshow.com. 23.1.16

The Young Magicians Club are thrilled to announce that they have appointed a new editor to their successful magazine Secrets. Will Houstoun (who also edits The Magic Circular - the magazine of The Magic Circle) is an ex-member of YMC himself and is now in this important role. Will's vision for Secrets includes it being a magazine that encourages young magicians to explore all areas of magic, including flourishing, close-up, stage and other areas that are naturally appealing but also those that may be less intuitively interesting like magic history and theory. He says it will be well connected to other YMC activities like the monthly workshops, annual J-Day one-day convention and other services like the website. It will continue to take full advantage of the range of expertise in The Magic Circle in order to open as many doors as possible for YMC Members to fully explore different aspects of magic. The Young Magicians Club is open to any young magician aged 10 to 18. To find out more, including how to join, visit www.youngmagiciansclub.co.uk. 23.1.16

Hangmen "The funniest play in London" Time Out. Don't miss your chance to see the award-winning new comedy from Olivier and Academy Award winner Martin McDonagh during its final weeks at Wyndham's Theatre, London. In his small pub in Oldham, Harry (David Morrissey) is something of a local celebrity. But what's the second-best hangman in England to do on the day they've abolished hanging? Amongst the cub reporters and pub regulars dying to hear Harry's reaction to the news, his old assistant Syd (Andy Nyman) and the peculiar Mooney (Johnny Flynn) lurk with very different motives for their visit. Limited season must end 5th March. Wyndham's Theatre, Charing Cross, London.

★★★★★ "The most line-by-line funny show London has seen in years." The Daily Telegraph
★★★★★ "Gripping, funny and dramatically tense." The Sunday Times
★★★★★ "Drop-dead hilarious." The Independent

www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk. 23.1.16

Bexley Magic Society. Roy Marsh writes: On Wednesday 20th January Bexley Magic Society held its Annual General Meeting and elected its new President, Bernard Pinnock pictured here. Bernard has been a member of the Society for over twelve years and has been a major contributor to the club's programme, as well as supporting and appearing at its many public shows, performing both close-up and stage acts. He is a successful children’s entertainer too. As a Past President of his local Rotary Club, Bernard will be at home right away in his new role. He will serve a maximum of three years unless he is opposed at an intervening AGM. Have a good term of office Bernard. 23.1.16

Mel Mellers will be presenting his lecture for the Derby Magic Circle this Wednesday, 27th January. Paul Sharp writes: A lecture from the angle of a working professional with emphasis on routining, presentation and  psychology, featuring comedy magic and mentalism. A look into the thinking behind the tricks and how they serve the performer, together with new methods and plots. A unique lecture, not to be missed! Past members and 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. Breadsall Village Hall, Derby, DE21 5LF (Map). Doors open at 7.30pm, ready to start at 8pm. For more information about our programme for the remainder of the year please visit www.derbymagiccircle.com. 23.1.16

The Magicseen 'Double Up' Draw: "Just one week left! The Magicseen 'Double Up' Draw will be taking place shortly, which will reward two lucky customers with a doubling up of their new Magicseen subscription period or their renewal. Yes, something for nothing! So, if you take out a new 1 year sub, or you renew an existing sub for a further year, before the closing deadline of midnight on the 30th January 2016, and you are one of the two names drawn from the hat, you will receive a further year extension to your sub for free! And if you've taken out a 2 year new sub or renewal, it will be increased by a further 2 years. To get the chance to double up in this way you must have renewed or started a sub in January, so don't put it off, give yourself a chance to double your subscription period by going to www.magic.forgecom.info/magicseensubform.htm right now." 23.1.16

Congratulations to Tom Brooks who won the Hinsley Hand Trophy for most entertaining card trick at the Farnborough Association of Magical Entertainers competition last week. Pictured here, receiving his trophy from president Lenny Dragon, he fought off stiff competition by performing a very atmospheric ESP effect. The competition was combined with our annual President's Command Performance and an excellent evening was enjoyed by all present. FAME meets monthly on the second Monday of the month at St Mark's Church Hall, Farnborough. More information at www.fame-magic.co.uk. Philip Sweeting. 23.1.16

Back to the Future Bookings, with Magic Dave - The Lecture: "Do you want more bookings? Of course you do!, let's get people talking about your show, and make you the entertainer of choice in your area. In this lecture see Magic Dave (Dave Allen) performing all new magic, puppet routines and illusions from his Children’s and Family Shows. Magic Dave will also give you a complete walkthrough of all the equipment used in the show and why!" Coventry Magic Circle on Tuesday 26th January. The Club meets at the Bentley Road Social Club, Bentley Road, Nuneaton CV11 5LR (Map). www.coventrymagiccircle.co.uk for more information. Also see www.daveallenmagic.com. 23.1.16

Venezuela's Luis Otero - UK Lecture Tour. Final three dates: High Peak Magic Club, Manchester Circle of Magicians and Blackpool Magicians' Club. Luis Otero's lecture is a treasure trove of magic, moves, and philosophy for the close-up magician. What's exciting about hosting a lecturer from this part of the world is that he brings with him a new style of magic and presentation, and an entirely original philosophy on card magic. The magic is beautiful, intelligent, and unusual in construction. Tricks that appeal to the beginner will be taught, as well as more advanced and challenging material. See What's On for details. 23.1.16

Ken Joy lectures at the Kent Magicians' Guild at 8pm on Tuesday 26th January. Mike Bonfield writes: The lecture will take place at the club premises: CIU Dunton Green Social Club, 159 London Road, Dunton Green, Kent TN13 2TA (Map). Ken Joy is a well-known Water Rat, who works mainly on cruise liners nowadays with his very successful comedy magic act. He also gives talks on various aspects of show business and appeared for many years as a Panto dame. The lecture will include a film show with footage of many of the famous acts he has known throughout his career. This promises to be a fantastic evening for comedy as well, because Ken can talk the hind legs off a donkey! Admission for non-members is only £5.00. www.kentmagiciansguild.co.uk. 23.1.16

A new organisation for Punch performers, The Punch and Judy Club was officially launched last week, along with a new website. The Club was founded by some of the world’s top Punch and Judy Professors, historians, and puppet makers, all keen to 'Stick Up for Mr Punch'. They aim to promote Old Red Nose and his merry band of wooden headed misfits in the best possible light by performing shows of the highest quality. As "Custodians of Mr Punch's Heritage" these performers know that Mr Punch’s future is quite literally in their hands. More details on www.punchandjudyclub.com. James Arnott. 23.1.16

Magic Touch KickStarter project. "Just to let you all know that our new KickStarter project has just been launched. Please have a look and help if you can. We are a small community interest company based in Peterborough who teach, adapt, and perform magic for visually impaired and disabled people. We do free shows, one to ones, talks and workshops up and down the country designing our act and approach to enable access for disabled people. This project will help us expand our work so we can keep going and invest in some new props." JJ Lucia-Wright, www.extremeclowning.co.uk. 23.1.16

Reserve your Britain Does Variety Audition Place. "Auditions for Britain Does Variety are being held in six locations around Britain. There is a refundable reservation fee of just £5 for solo and duo acts, or just £10 for acts of three people and above to secure your audition slot - but if you are unsuccessful at your audition this reservation fee is fully refundable on the day." www.britain-does-variety.co.uk. 23.1.16

Masters of Magic Convention, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th May 2016, Saint-Vincent: www.mastersofmagic.eu/revolutionfestival. 23.1.16

Magicians gather in Brazil. Seen here, left to right, on board MS Insignia: comedy magician John Ekin from Orlando, Tricia Blake, Mel Mellers and Steve Blake. 23.1.16

Jake Ace Magician Presents an Evening of Magic and Comedy. "Saturday 19th March 2016 at the Roxley Hall, Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich, Norfolk NR7 0QZ (Map). Doors open at 7pm, show starts 7.30pm. Refreshments and Raffle. Adults £6.00, Concessions £5.00, Under 16's £4.00. To book tickets contact Jake on 01603 435537 or 07855 281476. A donation from the proceeds will be made to the East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity No. 1083876. Wheelchair access available." 23.1.16

"Dynamo: Dying on stage would be good for the legacy" Click Here • "Sensing is Believing: The Most Innovative Young Mind in Illusion Set To Electrify Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago Audience with Groundbreaking Illusions" Click Here • "Morgan & West: Parlour Tricks" Click Here • "Magician Criss Angel's The Supernaturalists at State Theatre may be better than solo show" Click Here • "Hey presto! American magician John Carney is on his way to South Tyneside for international festival" Click Here • "First trailer for Houdini & Doyle" Click Here • "Illusionist to bring debut UK tour to Runcorn theatre" Click Here • "No (Mind)freakin’ way!" Click Here • "Fundraiser planned after FoCo female illusionist dies" Click Here • "Young Portsmouth magician to hold variety show for charity" Click Here • "Watch incredible magician amaze with tricks that won him Britain’s best wedding entertainer title" Click Here • And finally..."The man who can 'walk on water': Daring dash across swimming pool" Click Here • Thanks for your news as always... see you next week, Duncan. 23.1.16

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