Number 815 -6th February 2016

 

64th Blackpool Magic Convention, 19th, 20th, 21st February... it's just around the corner! Starring: Jeff McBride, Larry Hass, Eugene Burger, Omar Pasha, Victor Voitko, Paul Wilson, Shin Lim, Pat Fallon, Guy Barrett, Norman Barrett, George Kovari, Christian Farla (photo), Jay Sankey, Danny Hunt's Amethyst, Will Houston, John Martin, Ian Rowland, Mark Mason, Gerald Le Guilloux, The Magic Eagles, Vladimir Volkoff, Hector Mancha, Igor Trifunov, Donimo, Gwenaelle, Pierric, Otto Wessely, Duo Monastyrsky, The Jindinis, Ken Dodd and Dave Bonsall. All VIP registrations have now been sold. Gold Card registrations are still available, but hurry! It's going to be another amazing three days magic! For full registration info visit www.blackpoolmagic.com. 6.2.16

 

Dynamo Live - The Brighton Centre. "Some people do magic and some people are magic! Very few people have both of these qualities: Dynamo is one of the few..." Dynamo Live at The Brighton Centre is reviewed by Wayne Dobson this week, Click Here. For February/March tour dates see What's On. Visit www.dynamomagician.com to book. 6.2.16

 

Houdini's big secret: the sidekick who was more skilled than his master. "When Houdini got lowered into water, who padlocked his trunks? A British carpenter and locksmith called Jim Collins. Now a magician has written a play about the forgotten hero of escapology..." To read the full piece by Stephen Moss in The Guardian Click Here. 6.2.16

 

The Davenport Magic Collection, Potter & Potter Auctions, April 9th, 2016. This auction features items from the storied collection of Lewis Davenport & Co. of London. One of the world's oldest and most successful magic shops and manufacturers, the Davenport family also owns and maintains one of the world's great collections of conjuring memorabilia and illusions. For the first time, items from the family's well-known holdings will be offered for sale at public auction. Going on the block are scarce and collectible books, vintage stone lithographs, magic props (including several from the famous German firm of Janos Bartl), vintage magic supply catalogs, photographs, ephemera, and more. (Also: '1001 Magic Tricks: The Collection of Bill King Part II' on February 6th, and 'Houdiniana' on April 9th). See www.potterauctions.com/auctions/upcoming. 6.2.16

 

Northern Magic Circle Convention: Morgan & West and Luke Jermay joint masterclass. From the organisers: This is a pay to view event at the Northern Magic Circle convention. This exciting new masterclass will take place on Saturday 9th April at 9.30pm at the Harrogate theatre. Having both recently finished highly successful UK theatre tours, Morgan & West and Luke Jermay have teamed up to bring you an exclusive masterclass. Pooling their knowledge and experience the trio will discuss and teach the most effective ways to turn your magic into full theatrical experiences. Covering all topics from selecting appropriate and effective material, to choosing the right sound effects, this masterclass will be an in-depth look into the role of magic in the world of theatre. Not to be missed by the aspiring stage magician. This masterclass is an additional £15 for anyone with full registration for the convention or £25 for this event only. Please note this masterclass has limited very availability and is on a first come first served basis. The Northern Magic Circle convention takes place at the Harrogate theatre on the 9th and 10th of April. To book visit www.northernmagiccircle.org.uk. 6.2.16

 

Paul Stone UK Lecture Tour (plus workshops), April and May 2016. Currently based in Las Vegas, Paul has been around the magic scene for many years. A successful Cabaret and Tradeshow performer he moved into Show and Event Production over thirty years ago and has produced his 'World Stars of Magic' and 'Variety Live' Shows in several top Hotel Casinos in Las Vegas and at the world famous London Palladium where Paul has produced more than 20 shows including 'A Tribute to Siegfried & Roy at the London Palladium' and 'Palladium Magic' celebrating 100 years of magic at the Palladium and honouring Master Magician John Calvert.

Paul was Magic Consultant on both 'The Best of Magic' and Penn & Teller's 'Fool Us' TV Series. Paul has also produced three 'Innovention' Conventions, two in Las Vegas with magic luminaries including Teller, Lance Burton, Siegfried & Roy, Amazing Johnathan, Mac King and Criss Angel, and last year in Liverpool with Jeff Hobson and Armando Lucero.

Paul's fast moving and brand new lecture, (his last UK lecture tour was in 2005) will feature a number of commercial ideas and tricks specifically aimed at the working performer, a few of which will be available to buy at the end of the lecture. Paul will also be telling some fascinating stories about the many great magicians that have appeared in his shows, including Hans Moretti & Helga, Siegfried & Roy, Lance Burton, Fred Kaps, and Silvan to name just a few. At every lecture Paul will be donating a collectible magic poster to be raffled off as well as an item from the prestigious Ken Brooke Magic Range to which Paul owns the worldwide marketing & manufacturing rights.

 

As well as the club lecture dates below Paul will be presenting a couple of one day 'Performers Workshops' featuring probably the most commercial Rising Card effect in magic, Ken Brooke & Jim Hooper's 'Nemo Jumbo Rising Cards'. One will be in central London on Tuesday 19th April and one in Liverpool on Wednesday 27th April. Venues to be confirmed. Each Workshop is limited to 15 people and the cost is £175. Each delegate will receive all the necessary props required to perform this reputation making effect (Nemo Jumbo Rising Cards' alone normally retails at £150), in the cost of the Workshop. Email qualityevents@aol.com for full details of the Performers Workshops.

 

Shropshire Magical Society - Wednesday 6th April
Nottingham Guild of Magicians - Thursday 7th April
Northern Magic Circle Convention - Saturday/ Sunday 9th & 10th April
Wessex Magical Association - Tuesday 12th April
The Magic Circle, London (members only) - Monday 18th April
Performers Workshop - Central London -Tuesday 19th April - Venue TBC
Zodiac Magical Society - Wednesday 20th April
Modern Mystic League, Blackburn - Tuesday 26th April
Performers Workshop - Liverpool - Wednesday 27th April - Venue TBC
Mystic Ring - Thursday 5th May
Bristol Day of Magic - Sunday 8th May
Manchester Circle of Magicians - Monday 9th May
Blackpool Magicians Club - Tuesday 10th May
York Society of Magicians - Wednesday 11th May.
6.2.16

 

Fellowship of Christian Magicians Conference. Austin Siviter writes: The 29th Gospel Magic Conference is being held at High Leigh Conference Centre, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire from Monday 15th to Friday 19th February. The programme includes gospel and secular magic, lectures and performances by John Archer, Julie Carpenter, Gardini (Peter Gardner), Scott Penrose, Simon Williams, Steve Price, Dominick Zwolinski, Mark Greenwood, and One Way UK. This is a family friendly conference and again this year we have a Kids Conference running alongside the main event. The kids programme includes "The Barrel of Fun", a professional circus lecture and teach-in. Simon Cooper has taught children in the magical arts for many years. We have Julie Carpenter one the best children’s entertainers in the UK. We also have a hands-on lecture by a Crazy German Scientist. He is Crazy. He is German and he is a scientist. Plus loads more. Each evening there’s a full family stage show featuring many of the magicians above. Delegates who attend for the week have full board and accommodation included. Whilst delegate numbers are limited, there are still a few places available and there is the opportunity for day visitors. For further details visit our website www.christianmagicians.co.uk/conference2016. 6.2.16

 

The Intimate Magic Tour 'with the Amazing Paul Daniels and the Lovely Debbie McGee' is back on tour throughout the year: "Several years ago the most entertaining magic guy in the world, Paul Daniels, together with his wife, Debbie McGee, toured with a small, intimate, magic show and had so much fun they have decided to do it again. They will be bringing their night of bafflement and laughter up and down the country with a unique show that is definitely not to be missed. If you care to visit www.pauldaniels.co.uk you will find a page listing all the awards and honours that Paul has received from magical organisations worldwide. They call him ‘The Legend’ and Dynamo has called him ‘The Godfather of Magic’. From her time as a ballet dancer in Iran, and becoming a lot more than Paul’s assistant, Debbie now appears in her own right, both on stage and on her Radio Berkshire show. In this show, as you will see, she joins in the fun that is ‘The Intimate Show’." See What's On for tour dates or visit www.pauldaniels.co.uk. "Paul Daniels 'has more knowledge about magic than anyone else in the world', says Debbie McGee" Click Here. 6.2.16

 

Paul Megram Lecture - South Tyneside International Magic Festival Convention. Paul Megram, who has been captivating children for more than a decade, will host a special performance and lecture at the South Tyneside International Magic Festival Convention in March. The 13th annual event, running at the Customs House, South Shields, will offer three-days of shows, lectures and interactive sessions, all designed to help professional magicians share best practice and hone their skills. Paul will open the convention on Friday March 11th with a special performance as his alter ego, Colonel Custard, which will be attended by students from schools across South Tyneside.  Convention delegates will be able to enjoy the show from the balcony above, before attending a closed lecture in which Paul will offer practical tips on engaging with audiences of all ages, as well as recreating some of the tricks seen on stage.

This will be the first time that the former Children’s Entertainer of the Year and British Children's Entertainer National Champion 2014-15 has lectured in this way and shared the secrets behind his unique blend of magical mayhem. Tickets for the Convention, sponsored by MagicBox and supported by the Customs House and BBC Newcastle, are priced at £65 each and available by contacting Karri Prinn on 0191 4554031 or karri.prinn@southtyneside.gov.uk. More details can also be found by visiting www.southtynesidemagic.com.
6.2.16

 

Magic Car Boot Sale - West Bromwich, this Sunday. After 23 years the final Car Boot Sale will take place on Sunday 7th February at the Masonic Hall, Edward Street, West Bromwich B70 8NT (Map). Doors open at 9am and admission is £5, including a free drink. Some stalls are still available - to book call Alec Powell on 07831 115448. For information about who will be there and any special bargains join the Facebook group - Magic Car Boot Sale. See what you are buying and enjoy a good haggle with the seller! Alec Powell. 6.2.16

 

Sean Lobban The Tall Tale Lecture - now booking. Sean is an experienced full time professional, who has performed family magic shows and close-up magic since 1998. The Tall Tale Lecture is a theory based, interactive presentation which focuses on the performance side of the business. It’s about Sean’s experience and a theory which he believes is the reason why he has kept working, while other magicians’ bookings have dropped. It is primarily aimed at Children’s Entertainers, but applies to all areas of magic. If your members like discussion, debate and an evening that gets them thinking, then it’s ideal. Also, the lecture’s content can prove to be controversial and it’s possible that your members will disagree, but that’s the point! It will highlight the potential mistakes that magicians make and sometimes that isn’t easy to accept. For booking details see the MagicWeek Lecturers page. 6.2.16

 

Spellbinding Las Vegas Magic is coming to Glastonbury town! The Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger Magic Show, hosted by Mario Morris Magic. Wednesday, March 2nd 8pm, Doors open at 7.30pm. "A unique opportunity to see Las Vegas Magician Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger perform in an intimate Magic Show setting. Tickets Click Here. This public show is part of the UK 3 day McBride Master class, which has just a few places left. "If you are looking for detailed, personal instruction in an intimate and safe setting, consider attending a McBride Master Class, magic’s most progressive learning experience." For details visit www.schoolofbusking.com. 6.2.16

 

Conjuring at the Court, London, Thursday 25th February. From the organisers: The February show features the funny and mystifying Lee Hathaway; magic and mime from the astonishingly talented Justin Monehen; appearing for the first time at the Court original magic and comedy from Wayne Fox, and the legend that is Fay Presto. Compered by co-producer Russell Levinson. The show starts at 8pm and runs to 10pm with an interval. It’s in the lovely function room of the Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing, London W13 8PH (Map). Come early to enjoy dinner in one of the pub’s spacious bars or the elegant Victorian dining room. With a bar at the back of the room so you can have a drink while enjoying the magic. Seats are comfortable and all have a good view of the stage. Just minutes from Central London. Parking is free from 6.30pm. Book now from www.conjuringatthecourt.com – tickets £11 online but £12 on the door. 6.2.16

 

The Magicians' Podcast this week features Kevin James, seen here recently starring in 'The Illusionists'. Listen to this podcast and catch up with previous editions at magicianspodcast.podbean.com. Also see www.facebook.com/MagiciansPodcast. 6.2.16

 

The British Magical Society is pleased to start its 111th Year by presenting a feast of lectures for February 2016. Paul Cadley writes: Firstly, on Tuesday 9th February, The British Magical Society is pleased to present the Victorian Magical Duo – Morgan and West! It was a chance find in the adverts section of Peculiar Past-Times Monthly magazine that led to them coming into possession of a prototype time machine (Tempus Fudgit inc. 1887) and with scant but a change of waistcoat and an industrial sized tea caddy for provisions, the nineteenth century’s greatest magical duo set off for the 21st century.

Secondly, on Tuesday 16th February, 'Tenyo III' presented by Jay Adkins. BMS Vice President Jay Adkins continues his annual visitation to the treasures of Japan's mass market magic manufacturer. Bring along your own Tenyo favourite. Here's a chance to see the latest and the greatest in a relaxed ‘session’. Non-members are invited, without charge, but participation is encouraged.

Then thirdly, on Tuesday 23rd February 'The Magic and Mystery School hits Birmingham' with Larry Hass, Eugene Burger and Jeff McBride. As part of the 25 year Anniversary Celebration of the Magic and Mystery School three of the most influential magicians on earth present a lecture/workshop. Non-members are invited to attend for a modest £10 fee.

Time and venue for all evenings: 7.30pm at Selly Oak Ex Servicemens' Club, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 7DL (Map). See www.britishmagicalsociety.co.uk for details. Note: Early arrival is recommended but the doors of the Club do not open until 7pm.
6.2.16

 

Magicians at the Half Moon - Bishop's Stortford. Andy Clockwise writes: They're back! Yes, The 'Magicians at the Half Moon' return on Friday, 26th February. Well it was pretty much standing room only at the Magicians at the Half Moon last time and this year is going to be one of the best as it continues to grow in strength, presenting some of the UK's top Magicians on a regular monthly basis. This month promises to be as good as any other with newcomer to the Half Moon Richard Graham and back by popular demand Dean Maudsley, compered by show producer Martin Cox (who does a little bit of magic himself). Doors open at 7.30pm and the fun kicks off at 8pm at the Half Moon, 31 North Street, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 2LD (Map). Entry is £15 but you can save yourself £5 by calling Martin on 01279 659562 or emailing martin@comedyofmagic.co.uk and reserving yourself a ticket to guarantee a seat. For further information, please check out www.halfmoonmagic.co.uk. 6.2.16

 

Lucky Draw results and a special Mel Mellers book deal from Magicseen: The results are in! Magicseen has now made its draw to award two lucky subscribers who renewed or took out a new sub in January, the chance to have their sub period 'doubled up' and thus extended by the same amount that they had just taken out. The names that came out of the electronic 'hat' are Howard Hughes of Bangor and Mitch Cook of Margate, so congratulations to both these gentlemen and we hope that they will enjoy their free extended subscription periods. And talking of free, don't forget that if you order Magicseen Publications' soon-to-be-released new book, Mel Mellers - The Travelling Trickster, no later than midnight on the 15th February 2016, you will be able to opt to have any one of 5 E-Books for free, the selection being from WD40, Masterclass Vol. 1, Masterclass Vol. 2, Comedy For The Well Groomed Performer and Roulette. You can select to collect your copy of The Travelling Trickster at Blackpool, if you are attending, and thus save the p&p, or you can place your order for delivery in the week commencing 22nd February. To order your copy and benefit from this offer please go to http://www.magic.forgecom.info/magbooks.htm. 6.2.16

 

Introducing the E-Club Pro 30 Day Pass. News from Mark Leveridge Magic: Mark Leveridge Magic's E-Club Pro, the online club and magic resource, has accrued a large stock of moves, routines, advice and helpful articles in the 5 years that it has been in existence, and paid up members get 24hr access to all this information via the password protected section of the MLM website. If you would like to get entry to all this video instruction and advice too, but at this stage you do not wish to take out a membership, you can now do so by purchasing an E-Club Pro 30 Day Pass. At just 99p per day, this will make the Members' Only online resources available to you for a 30 day period, allowing you to properly investigate and learn from the 500+ pages of content. And should you decide you would like to continue the access by joining E-Club Pro, then by signing up before your 30 Day Pass expires you will be given a £20.00 Credit Voucher so that your 30 days of access will not have cost you any more than the normal £10.00 per month membership fee. So this is the perfect opportunity to see what E-Club Pro has to offer you and to give it a proper try out. For more information and to purchase your 30 Day Pass starting at any time, please go to www.markleveridge.co.uk/eclubpro.php. 6.2.16

 

What's Cooking? "A mentalism book test that actually makes sense! A full mentalism routine with a full colour, glossy recipe book." For details see KickStarter Click Here. 6.2.16

 

West End Magic, Leicester Square Theatre, London. From the organisers: West End Magic returns at 3.30pm on Saturday 5th March, with the first show of the year featuring nail biting escapology, incredible illusions, comedy and mind reading spaghetti! Top UK illusionists Amethyst will present some of their spectacular stage illusions and death defying escapes that will leave your nails feeling slightly shorter. YouTube sensation Neil Henry will leave your brain feeling bamboozled as he predicts the future using just a tin of Alphabet Spaghetti, plus the award winning Oliver Tabor will perform conjuring feats that are so mind bending, it will make you wonder what the definition of reality really is. Box office 020 7734 2222. www.westendmagic.com. 6.2.16

 

Arron Jones's 'The Magicianary Position' lecture, Coventry Magic Circle. James Cannon writes: The lecture 'The Magicianary Position' contains magic that Arron uses all the time. These tricks are for professional workers. Arron will also be talking about the way he believes magic should be performed. Most importantly, Arron hopes everyone can just have a laugh and that everyone will learn something that they can take away and use. Tuesday 23rd February at 8pm. Bentley Road Social Club, Bentley Road, Nuneaton CV11 5LR (Map). See www.coventrymagiccircle.co.uk for more information. 6.2.16

 

Close-up Magic at The Magic Circle, London. This event showcases some of the best close-up magicians available and audiences get to meet the performers and experience the magic in the intimate setting of the headquarters of the world-famous The Magic Circle in London, often taking part themselves. An amazing collection of close-up magicians presenting superlative magic right before your very eyes. Seeing is believing! Friday 4th March. Doors open 7pm, event starts at 7.30pm and finishes at 9.30pm. Tickets £19.75 plus transaction fee from www.themagiccircle.co.uk/public-events or www.seetickets.com. Venue: The Magic Circle headquarters, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London NW1 2HD (Map). Further details: www.themagiccircle.co.uk/public-events. Although all shows are of a universal nature and young enthusiasts are welcomed, 80 minutes of close-up is not usually recommended for those under 10. No refunds will be issued for under 10s. 6.2.16

 

The Ulster Society of Magicians Annual Dinner. James Hobart writes: Samantha Blair and The Ulster Society of Magicians are holding their Annual Dinner in Belfast on March 12th. A victim of ever increasing numbers they are moving to the city centre Clayton Hotel and promise a glittering night of entertainment with two magicians flying in to add to the entertainment. David Hardman is 17 years old and has already developed his own original style of stage magic. He has been a member of the Young Magicians’ Club – The Magic Circle’s youth initiative – for nearly 8 years, during which time he has won awards such as the Home Counties Trophy, the Pete McCahon Trophy for originality and the Kaymar Komedy Kup. In March 2015 he was placed second in The Magic Circle’s Young Magician of the Year. Amanda Eve has been performing magic in the United Kingdom and the USA for over twenty five years. She is a member of The Inner Magic Circle with Gold star. Amanda has performed six times at the 4F convention. It needs to be stated that this lady should not be allowed near sharp pointy objects... be afraid... very very afraid! Tickets at £27.50 are now available by contacting Society Secretary George Bleeks. Telephone 07860 115611 or email george.bleeks@ntlworld.com www.online-usm.com. 6.2.16

 

Pawn Stars South Africa. "Heartburn. The guys check out a secret moonshine recipe and an African mask with a creepy past. Plus, a magician tries a trick to sell a coin he claims is highly valuable." Sunday 14th February on History. See TV Magic. 6.2.16

 

News Deadline reminder. Please submit news by Thursday if possible - absolute deadline 12 noon Friday, no exceptions. DT. 6.2.16

 

"Derren Brown talks touring, happiness and 'day-off socks' ahead of Nottingham dates" Click Here • "Watch Dynamo in action ahead of the magician's Newcastle gig at Metro Radio Arena" Click Here • "Review: Impossible, Mayflower Theatre" Click Here • "Dynamo hopes to cast a spell on Liverpool audiences" Click Here • "Exclusive interview with Derren Brown as he brings Miracle to Milton Keynes Theatre and Wycombe Swan Theatre" Click Here • "When Harry Houdini tried to talk to the dead" Click Here • "David Blaine Attempts a New Kind of Stunt in Greenwich Village" Click Here • "Piff (not Puff) the Magic Dragon conjures laughs and illusions" Click Here • "Dan Sperry's Magic Is Marilyn Manson Meets David Copperfield" Click Here • "Believe in Magic" Click Here • Thanks as always for your news submissions - see you next week, Duncan. 6.2.16

 

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