27th International Close-up Competition & Kevin Reay Trophy, 2010. Magicians hoping to take part in the annual Close-up Competition at this year's International Magic Convention are requested to contact Georgia georgia@internationalmagic.com to receive a set of rules and be considered for a place in this prestigious event. Along with a cash prize of £1,000, there is the Kevin Reay Cup and the chance to add the title to your résumé. Past winners include such luminaries as Lennart Green, Gary Kurtz, Gazzo, Michael Vincent and indeed many more. It is acknowledged as one of the magic world's top titles. The competition is judged by an international panel including many overseas convention organisers - so also acts as a great showcase, even if you don't win one of the cash prizes or Awards of Merit. The number of contestants is limited - if you plan to enter make sure you register as soon as possible. International Magic Convention, 26th, 27th, 28th November 2010, visit www.internationalmagic.com for hotel deals too. 24.7.10

 

"Hello, I'd like to register for the conference that I just missed, so that I can attend, please." Thanks to the magic of the internet you can. You may have missed the live event but that doesn’t mean you can’t join in the fun and see the conference that everyone was (and is) talking about. If you register now you will still receive the full DVD set as soon as it is published. The EMC team are currently in the process of uploading the conference sessions to their website as well, so you'll also enjoy access to all the sessions online until July 2011. The cost is 55 Euros (approximately $75). You will also become a member of EMC and will receive the 'members only' Newsletter. This offer won't last forever! The conference was the huge success predicted for it. Register at www.essentialmagicconference.com. (During the conference we were asked to send in photos of ourselves watching the conference, I took one but didn't send it in, but here it is Click Here). 24.7.10

 

Tommy Cooper's Mirth, Magic and Mischief takes us back into the hilarious world of the master. In this volume not only do we revisit Tommy's personal joke collection but we also delve into his secret magic files. Here we will learn how to catch a bullet in your teeth - Tommy style, create a floating sausage, learn Tommy's favourite practical jokes, and perform the egg and bag trick to the amazement of all. There's only one person in the world who could produce this book: John Fisher, author of the bestselling "The Tommy Cooper Joke Book" and the biography "Always Leave Them Laughing". John was a friend and confidante of Tommy and is the possessor of the largest archive of Tommy Cooper material including a card index of 25,000 Cooper jokes, scripts, monologues and memorabilia which will make this book a 'must have' for all of his millions of fans. Hardcover, 176 pages, publication date: October 14th. To pre-order from Amazon.co.uk (with a generous discount) Click Here. 24.7.10

 

Conjuring at the Court - London. West London's monthly Conjuring at the Court will make you smile on Thursday 29th July with an evening of magic, comedy and variety at Ealing's Drayton Court. "The show features the clever and witty Ian Keable (photo), whose subtle humour and astonishing ability to read minds have made him a top choice for cabaret and corporate events; Fletcher Ransberry, a young rising star of magic (he had The Magic Circle falling off their chairs with laughter recently); Steve Price, a funny and talented entertainer, whose comic take on Russian Roulette has inspired many imitators – none as good as the original, and the multi-talented Ian Thom is a magical clown but at the Court he’s going to show us his wonderful skills as a puppeteer, conjuring up emotion, drama and humour as he brings his creations to life. The show will be compèred for the first time by one of the producers, Stephen Barry, whose fast-paced visual comedy and fun have made him one of West London’s most popular performers." For tickets and further information visit www.conjuringatthecourt.com email tickets@conjuringatthecourt.com. Venue: The Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing W13 8PH (Map). Doors open 7.30pm, show time 8pm-10pm, Thursday 29th July. 24.7.10

 

Kevin McMahon, Artistic Director, MagicFest emails:  "Massive thank you to all performers, volunteers and supporters of the first ever Edinburgh International Magic Festival. Thousands of people turned out to see some fantastic acts perform across the centre of Edinburgh. Many shows sold out and all received great reviews from the local press. Under 18 Competition winner, Liam Black (Scotland), stole the show with some clever manipulations and excellent comedy timing. The over 18 competition was won by Michael Neto (Portugal) whose charm and skill won over the judges and audience. Big thanks to www.magictricks.co.uk for sponsoring this event. Magic School received rave reviews from the young participants and was covered in full by ITV Scotland and Radio 4. Links to press coverage available from www.magicfest.co.uk/latestnews.html. The Magic and Variety Gala show finale at the Royal Lyceum Theatre received 4 star and 5 star reviews across the board. The first ever festival was a massive success and we look forward to seeing you next year." Kevin McMahon, Artistic Director www.magicfest.co.uk. Photo: Quick Change Artists Keelan and Charlotte in rehearsal for the Edinburgh Magic Festival's Variety Gala performance in the city's Royal Lyceum Theatre. 24.7.10

 

Sherlock's magic. Danny Hunt and Annette Claire of Amethyst are the creative/escapology consultants on the new BBC three-part drama, 'Sherlock'. Sherlock is a modern day take on the classic Sherlock Holmes originally created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Danny and Annette had a great time filming on set in Wales. Sherlock stars Benedict Cumberbatch as the new Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as his loyal friend Doctor Watson. Sherlock starts on Sunday 25th July at 9pm on BBC1. For more info Click Here or visit Amethyst's blog: www.amethyst-illusions.com. 24.7.10

 

Knock knock... Carl Charlesworth and Dave Allen, have just been awarded the Billy McComb trophy of excellence and named 'Watford Association of Magicians Members of the Year'. The trophy was presented at the club's 'Fish & Chips Supper and Awards Night' on Tuesday evening to the comedy duo for all their hard work, commitment and performances given at the club. Carl and Dave are currently working on a new double act, which they hope to be performing at the British Ring IBM Convention in September. www.carlcharlesworth.com www.daveallenmagic.com. 24.7.10

 

'Instant Radio V2' and 'Electro Magic Squeeker' come highly recommended by Steve Cook: "The new version of Instant Radio has some excellent improvements from the original; it's louder, clearer, slimmer, faster and more powerful. So if you want to turn any item into a radio - instantly, with empty hands, then get this great little gadget. Comes with a very clearly detailed booklet, and all you need. The Electro Magic Squeeker works on the same lines but allows you to 'squeek anything' at a touch, whilst your hands are empty. Think of the fun you can have with this item! You can use both items anywhere, anytime, and there's nothing to palm or hide! Use both on stage, in close-up table-hopping, at kids' shows - anywhere you feel an item could do with a squeek! This item too comes with a very nicely produced booklet. Looking for something different, then look no further. Very highly recommended." Steve Cook. Visit www.magigadgets.com for more info. 24.7.10

 

Colin McLeod DVD shoot - free tickets. Alakazam Magic are opening their doors for a live DVD shoot next weekend. Direct from a 5-star sell-out run in Edinburgh, Colin McLeod will be taking to the Alakazam stage to perform some of his finest creations for a new DVD set release. If you would like to be in the audience simply email sales@alakazam.co.uk for further details and to book free tickets. There will be no explanations, so partners and non-magicians are very welcome - the more the better! Tickets will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, so book quickly as spaces will be limited! Sunday 1st August, Rochester, Kent, doors open at 5.30pm, showtime 6pm. See Colin in action on YouTube. 24.7.10

 

The Paul Ormonde Illusion Show. "Experience the mystery, excitement and laughter of The Paul Ormonde Illusion Show at Portadown Town Hall Theatre on Saturday November 6th at 8pm. All tickets £8.00 via www.ticketmaster.ie or Portadown Town Hall Theatre. Paul's special guest will be Silouette and he will also be joined by his dazzling assistants Lisa and Sara. The show will include Houdini's Metamorphosis, Harbin's Zig Zag Lady, The Levante Sword Box, and Paul Ormonde's Flying Psychic Leprechaun routine." The Paul Ormonde illusion Show can also seen in Omagh on Friday, November 12th. www.paulormonde.com. 24.7.10

 

International News: "IMX 2011 is a new event heading to Las Vegas. 15+ of the world’s greatest performers invade The Orleans Hotel from the 23rd to 25th May 2011 for 3 days of non-stop magic – incredible performances, unrivalled training and mind-blowing skill. Welcome to the International Magic Experience 2011. IMX is different. IMX provides you with an unparalleled amount of choice. You get to choose your own sessions and create your own unique experience. Gone are the days of being forced to sit through a mass lecture that doesn’t interest you in the slightest. Choose your lectures, choose which workshops to attend and choose the things which interest you." Visit www.imx2011.com for more information. 24.7.10

 

Jimbo's Magical Funtime Extravaganza. 45 minutes of child friendly close-up magic followed by a 45 minute stage show. Venue: Center Parcs, Nottingham, Saturday 24th and 31st July. www.jimmycarlo.co.uk. 24.7.10

 

More Workshop Plans by Granville Taylor (Faust the Magician). A Granville Taylor Publication. A Limited Edition of 200 copies, each one numbered and signed by the author. 124 pages with 49 colour photographs. A4 size, stapled and bound with cardboard covers. "These are the original plans drawn up by Granville Taylor over many years, including: Production of Two Trays of Beer Glasses, Close-up Carrying Case/Table, Horace Goldin’s Chair to Suitcase, The Golden Wand, My Dancing Cane, Thimble Holders, Board for Rapping Hand, The ‘Bean’ Card Holdout, the ‘Miracle’ Billiard Ball, Smoking the Thumb, Box for Vanishing Garter... and many more. Email taylormademagic@yahoo.co.uk for a flyer that includes full contents listing and ordering details. 24.7.10

 

News from China: "The Twins are still wowing audiences with their performance in 'Aladdin’s Magical 3D Adventure' which is breaking box office records the length and breath of the country! 'The Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Warriors have been the highlight so far, and the Chinese people are so lovely' said Paul to the gathered media." www.theillusionists.com. 24.7.10

 

The Pentacle Club James Ward Lecture. "With the holidays upon us, The Pentacle Club is hosting one last lecture before the summer break and visiting magicians are invited to join us on Tuesday, 27th July, for an evening of 'Mind, Magic and Mirth' when magician, author and TV scriptwriter James Ward brings along a mix of mentalism, magic and ideas on comedy. There is a small charge for non-members and the lecture starts at 8pm at St Laurence's School, Arbury Road, Cambridge CB4 2JX (Map)." 24.7.10

 

Riviera Circle of Magicians. The next meeting on Wednesday 28th July will be split into two halves. Firstly performances of self working cards tricks, followed by a mini-lecture on presentation, routining and design by Zak Stone. Guests welcome, admission only £2.00. www.rivieracircleofmagicians.co.uk. 24.7.10

 

Steve Price lectures at the Kent Magicians Guild at 8pm on Tuesday 27th July. Visiting magicians welcome: "special summer offer for visiting magicians only a fiver!" The Kent Magicians Guild meet near Sevenoaks on the last Tuesday of every month - it's a fun place to learn and share magic and is always welcoming to new members. Visit www.kentmagiciansguild.co.uk for details. 24.7.10

 

Bill Miller (Dusty) emails: "With a view to taking the idea of 'things in bottles' to a new level, I have produced a range of impossible bottles using unique one-off containers. My challenge has been to create a range of puzzle bottles which would really be a talking point in any magic den. check out www.impossiblebottles.co.uk (Not to be confused with Phil Evans' impossiblebottle.co.uk site)." Dusty (aka Bill Miller). 24.7.10

 

Blackpool Magicians' Club AGM. At the recent Annual General Meeting of Blackpool Magicians Club the President Alan Coventry handed the chain of office over to the new President Jeremy Guest. Officers elected were: President Elect: Derek Lever; Registration Officer: Arthur Casson; Treasurer: Alan Coventry; Convention Organiser: Derek Lever; Assistant Convention Organisers: Russ Stevens and David Plant; Clubroom Manager: David Plant; Entertainments Officer: Derek Lever; Librarian: John Hardman; Welfare Officer: John Hardman; Committee Members: Mark Raffles, Harry Robson, Jim O'Toole. Members expressed their deep satisfaction at the huge success of the 2010 Blackpool Magicians’ Convention and much discussion ensued regarding the forthcoming 2011 FISM European Championships on the 18th, 19th, 20th February 2011 and the FISM World Championships on the 9th to 14th July, 2012. Honorary Life Vice President, Tom Owen presented a beautiful Unique Magic Studio Card Sword, to the BMC Museum which was gratefully accepted by Curator Derek Lever. 24.7.10

 

David Brandwood (magician David Rie) won an award for volunteer work that he does in his local community which resulted him being presented to the Queen at a garden party held on Tuesday 20th July at Buckingham Palace. "It was a wonderful day for me, meeting members of the royal family including HRH Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles and other members of the royal family. The award is the highest award available for voluntary work! I performed magic to many of the guests on the day." 24.7.10

 

Two readers review Penn and Teller's recent London shows this week, Click Here • "Camden Fringe 2010: Interview – Nathan Penlington, ‘Uri & Me’" Click Here • Magic, 1400s-1950s [Hardcover] Mike Caveney, Jim Steinmeyer, Ricky Jay & Noel Daniel - now with 43% off at Amazon.co.uk Click Here • There's another look ahead to the British Ring Eastbourne Convention this week, Click Here • "Dan Hewitt and Sean Hayden win first heat of The Next Big Thing" Click Here • That's it, many thanks for all your submissions. Please remember the strict Friday 12 noon deadline though. See you next week, Duncan. 24.7.10

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Last Week: Number 525 - 17th July 2010

 

Over 1000 magicians around the world are enjoying The Essential Magic Conference. The conference, which runs until late this evening, is still open for registrations. You can see the lectures and performances live as they go out online in high definition on your computer today! The first session starts at 3pm GMT and the last ends at 10.30pm. All registrants of this ground breaking event will receive DVD box sets of the complete conference as a bonus, after the event, so nothing will be missed even if you weren't there from day one. I've been at the conference (at home!) since Thursday, and it's been really excellent, and broad, covering many aspects of the creation and performance of magic, together with some world class performances and 'trick' lectures too. Click Here to see today's schedule and sign up at www.essentialmagicconference.com to enjoy this final day - live! Here are a few exclusive photos from MagicWeek's 'boys on the inside' Click Here. Congratulations to organisers Luis De Matos, Marco Tempest and David Britland for producing such a first class and slickly produced event. It really has been outstanding. Photo: Guy Hollingworth performs Reformation up close at the conference on Friday. Guy is one of the guest speakers later on today. 17.7.10

 

“Give instruction to a wise man and he will be yet wiser!” Wayne Dobson is now offering a one-to-one production service for magicians looking for professional advice on sound, lighting, comedy, structuring routines and indeed all aspects of the performance of magic. This is a real opportunity to take your magic forward and learn from one of the finest magicians this country has ever produced. Visit Wayne's website for full details www.waynedobson.co.uk. Wayne will be appearing at the Eastbourne Convention in September and is profiled by Bob Hayden this week, Click Here. 17.7.10

 

Vegas Dream Ticket. Paul Stone and Showstealers are excited to announce the launch on August 1st of 'Vegas Dream Ticket'. Paul writes: "Every performer has dreamed of appearing in a top Las Vegas Showroom in front of a sold-out audience, but very few get the chance. Now we can help you to make that dream come true! This is genuinely the chance of a lifetime, a chance to perform in a top class professionally produced show, supported by live musicians in a fabulous Las Vegas Showroom for an audience of 500 - 1000. This is a unique PR opportunity and a chance to increase your profile, credibility and fees overnight. And Showstealers are the only entertainment company in Las Vegas that can make it happen for you. If you have a Stage or Cabaret Spot lasting between 5 and 18 minutes, and you are seriously interested in realising your dream, contact us now on info@vegasdreamticket.com for full details." 17.7.10

 

The Innovention, Las Vegas. News from Paul Stone: "The Innovention, taking place at the Suncoast Hotel & Casino in Summerlin, Las Vegas, from October 4-7 truly is unlike any other Magic Convention. This is not a marketing gimmick and we are definitely limiting the number of people attending to make sure that everyone has a great seat for every event and always has a good view. Where else can you find a line-up of Talent like the one at The Innovention? For a start, fresh from the sell out Penn & Teller Shows in London, Teller speaks at The Innovention. Yes, you really did read that correctly, Teller will be presenting his fabulous and rarely seen 'Red Ball' Lecture. This alone will be worth the price of admission. A genuine Superstar of Magic. But that is just the start. Just consider the names of those presenting Lectures and Workshop Sessions. Johnny Thompson, Gaetan Bloom, Richard McDougall, Shep Hyken, Seth Kramer, Kevin James, Joanie Spina, and Magic Al. Then there's the unbelievably quick fire entertaining mindreading of Graham P. Jolley, and the hilarious Mel Mellers, both of whom are making their US debuts. You'll see the one and only Jeff Hobson as you've never seen him before! And the rare and exciting appearance of another major Star, Criss Angel at a Magic Convention. For Close-up fans there's the incredible Lennart Green, and the boss himself, Bob Kohler ( yet another top class performer you rarely see perform ) and a couple of other surprise guests! Add to that some really top Dealers including without doubt the best 'magic demonstrator' in the business, from the UK, Mark Mason, plus a terrific and intimate venue, great room rates, and lots of restaurants that stay open late at night. So, what are you waiting for? Do you really want to miss this one of a kind and one-off event? We do still have spaces left to fill, but not that many, so if you don't want to be disappointed, go now to www.innovention2010.com/specialoffer and register before it is too late." 17.7.10

 

Chris Dugdale: An Evening of Magic and Mindreading. "Chris Dugdale, world class magician, returns by popular demand to Riverside Studios with a show that will leave you spellbound. From over 100 performances at the Monte Carlo Casino in Las Vegas, to a private audience for Her Majesty The Queen in Windsor, he has mesmerised audiences at the top level. Chris' last appearances at Riverside Studios in October were rapturously received by audiences and critics alike. Roger Foss on LBC 97.3 declared: 'Chris Dugdale is amazing. So amazing in fact that the applause was almost drowned by the sounds of jaws dropping. He's not just a mind-reader, he's a mindboggler.' Alistair Smith of The Stage newspaper said that the show was: 'Slickly staged with some nice theatrical touches and some of the most impressive sleight of hand magic I've seen.'" Tuesday 31st August to Sunday 19th September, Riverside Studios, Crisp Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9RL (Map). Tickets £15 (£12 concessions). Previews: £10. Saturday matinees: £12. Box office: 020 8237 1111. More info: www.riversidestudios.co.uk. 17.7.10

 

West London's monthly Conjuring at the Court will make you smile on Thursday 29th July with an evening of magic, comedy and variety at Ealing's Drayton Court. "The show features the clever and witty Ian Keable, whose subtle humour and astonishing ability to read minds have made him a top choice for cabaret and corporate events; Fletcher Ransberry, a young rising star of magic (he had The Magic Circle falling off their chairs with laughter recently); Steve Price, a funny and talented entertainer, whose comic take on Russian Roulette has inspired many imitators – none as good as the original, and the multi-talented Ian Thom is a magical clown but at the Court he’s going to show us his wonderful skills as a puppeteer, conjuring up emotion, drama and humour as he brings his creations to life. The show will be compèred for the first time by one of the producers, Stephen Barry, whose fast-paced visual comedy and fun have made him one of West London’s most popular performers." For tickets and further information visit www.conjuringatthecourt.com email tickets@conjuringatthecourt.com. Venue: The Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing W13 8PH (Map). Doors open 7.30pm, show time 8pm-10pm, Thursday 29th July. 17.7.10

 

Tickets for the 2011 Blackpool Magic Convention (18th-20th February) are currently being dispatched. Don't worry if you don’t receive yours immediately, this mammoth task will take several weeks to complete. Blackpool is the largest magic convention in the world featuring, in 2011, the FISM European Championships of Magic in addition to other great attractions for which Blackpool is justifiably famous. 2011 is proving to be even more popular than ever so if you have not yet registered you should do so quickly before the ‘Sold Out’ announcement is made. The registration fee of just £85 represents amazing value for money, but if you can't attend all three days single tickets are also available for the Saturday evening show only at £25 per person, or the Sunday Gala Show only at £35 per person. The registration form can be downloaded from www.blackpoolmagic.com but be quick - space is limited and time is running out! 17.7.10

 

Wayne Dobson releases 'Fourseen' on DVD. This is one of Wayne's favourite cabaret routines - perfect for both the close-up and stage magician. The disc features performances by Wayne and Matthew J. Dowden and you'll also receive two specially printed Fourseen Cards with this instructional DVD. For customers that already have the 'Life In Magic' DVDs, the special Fourseen Cards can be ordered on their own. Visit www.rsvpmagic.com for more information. 17.7.10

 

Magic People and Places. "John Sugar digs deep into a bygone era, exploring British magic that centered around key characters and studios. Times have changed since a magician produced a startled rabbit out of top hat with a puff of smoke. Today we expect more, and the modern magician apparently does the impossible before our eyes. But did the magic get there? John hears how the sale of magic has changed with the impact of the internet and the way conventions are developing new environments for its promotion and sale. He also hears about the leading magic shops and studios of 60 years ago, revealing the characters who created the magic. Today, magic revolves around the internet and magic conventions. The key gathering is in Blackpool in late February. John visits the 58th Magic Convention, attended by 3,500 magicians, and talks to the organisers and the performers while soaking up the atmosphere." See TV Magic for details. 11.30am on Thursday 29th July (30 minutes) on BBC Radio Four.

 

The Order of the Magi is holding a Jumbo Auction on Tuesday 27th July at The Irish World Heritage Centre, Queens Road, Manchester M8 8UF (Map) commencing at 7.30pm prompt; with viewing from 6.30pm. Lot numbers are now available so if you need one contact Max Townsend Entertainments Officer on 07800 618218 max.townsend@stockport.gov.uk. Details are on www.orderofthemagi.org.uk. Door charge £3. All welcome. 17.7.10

 

Jack Curtis' debut book Distorted Thoughts is set for publication in August: "...containing a collection of mentalism routines straight from his working repertoire. The book also includes two eye opening essays about why playing cards should never be taken for granted and how magicians can easily adapt their approach to tables to dramatically increase audience engagement." "Every effect in this book is simple and direct, just how I like them! Jack has thoroughly thought through every presentational nuance to bring you not only a small collection of strong mentalism effects, but also some very important performance and delivery ideas often overlooked by entertainers in this industry." Looch. "I absolutely love the effects in Distorted Thoughts, the production is tip top too." Anthony Jacquin. www.jackcurtis.co.uk. 17.7.10

 

RSVPMagic presents Strike6. Three years ago RSVPMagic released the very successful 1 Deck...14 Tricks...24 Hours DVD set starring Matthew J. Dowden and email: "These discs have now almost completely sold out and so we've decided to release the best 6 routines from both DVDs, on one disc, at a great price. Strike6 features fantastic easy-to-do card tricks that are suitable for beginners and professionals... they really are that good". Visit www.rsvpmagic.com for more information and to watch the trailer. 17.7.10

 

Henry Lewis MIMC, IBM, SAM, Hon Vice President of The Magic Circle, Emeritus Curator of TMC has been invited to give an illustrated talk to IBM Ring 316 Halifax, Nova Scotia on Wednesday 4th August 2010 on the life of the famous Robert Houdin, father of modern magic, horogist and scientist of his day. This talk was well received in The Magic Circle Theatre in London in 2009. Enquiries to Greg Gibney email: Ring316@eastlink.ca Tel: + 902 829 3556. 17.7.10

 

F13 presents An Evening of Uncomfortable Fun at 8pm on Friday 13th August. "Superstition holds that Friday 13th be a day of bad luck. Some people are so paralyzed by fear on Friday 13th that they avoid their normal routines in doing business, taking flights or even getting out of bed. There are 13 witches in a coven. Many buildings don't have a 13th floor or streets a house number 13.... On Friday 13th August, Martin Allan will be hosting 'An Evening of Uncomfortable Fun' featuring Bizarre Magick from Roni Razor, Escapology and Magic from Paul Cooke, The Odd Antics of Salamon and Martin Allan 'Pushing His Luck!'" Venue: The Basement, City Screen, Coney Street, York. Tickets £10.00 available from The City Screen Box Office 0871 9025726 or via www.thebasementyork.co.uk. More info: Martin Allan martin@mapromagic.co.uk. 17.7.10

 

Holder of world' first degree in Street Magic to perform in London. In 2006 Owen Lean graduated from Trinity College Dublin with the world's first degree in Street Magic. He had started doing a drama degree but had specialised in the subjects of Magic and Busking in his essays to such an extent that his tutor declared he had created the worlds 'first degree in street magic'. For three years now Owen has been working on a new feel-good stand up comedy magic show that he will be debuting in London on August 4-7th. The show entitled Failure: Admit It, Accept It, Embrace It. Promises to be as hilarious as it is thought provoking dealing with subjects such as romance, politics, employment and questioning whether the criteria society uses to define people as 'successes' and 'failures' are actually completely the wrong way around. Owen Lean: Failure 4-7th August at the Intermission Theatre, St Saviors, Walton Place, London S23 1SA (Map). Tickets £10.00 (enter 'magicweek' in the online concession box on www.failureshow.com for a reduced rate) Box office 020 7823 8979. 17.7.10

 

Jimmy (Jimbo) Carlo will be presenting his Kid-Ability Children's Lecture at the British Magic Society on Tuesday, 20th July. He then flies out to KIDabra! in Tennessee, USA to lecture and perform his children's show in front of an invited audience of children (the show, not the lecture!) and appear on the Gala Show (August 8th - 18th). www.jimmycarlo.co.uk. This summer Jimbo will be performing children's entertainment every Saturday through July, August (not 14th) and September in 'Center Parcs Saturday Night Extravaganza' at Center Pars, Nottingham. Child friendly close-up magic, plus a Stage Show. www.centerparcs.co.uk. 17.7.10

 

Magic Attic Dealer Dem. ACES are delighted to host Magic Attic's dealer dem at their Lewes HQ on Wednesday September 8th. Everybody welcome. Venue: Thomas A Beckett Church Hall, Cliffe High Street, Lewes. Visit www.acesmagic.co.uk for more information or contact Secretary Nicky Lewis for more details: nickymoon@btinternet.com. 17.7.10

 

Fresh from his encounter with Penn and Teller on the Jonathan Ross show, legendary singer Sir Tom Jones enjoyed more tricks with Magic Circle member Paul Craven at a Hoping Foundation's children's charity event last Saturday, at Jemima Khan's Oxfordshire country house. Other performers at Kiddington Hall included Roger Waters and David Gilmour of Pink Floyd. Whilst Tom's three of clubs was previously revealed on the eyeballs of Teller, this time his signed eight of diamonds was lost in the deck then rediscovered by 'The Voice' himself in a Moroccan treasure casket of coins and jewellery, at his very feet on the green green grass. Tom was aghast - not this time asking "why, why, why?" but "how, how, how..?!" His suitably astonished reaction and bellowing Welsh laughter meant Paul could only just contain himself from pointing out that "it's not unusual..." 17.7.10

 

Piff-tacular 2: Get Rich or Die Trying. He’s back! Genre-defying 2009 breakthrough act Piff the Magic Dragon returns with Piff-tacular 2: Get Rich or Die Trying, set to take the Edinburgh Festival by storm with a raft of brand new tricks and Mr Piffles – the world’s first levitating Chihuahua! See the last Edinburgh preview on July 22nd at 9pm at the Tristan Bates Theatre. 17.7.10

 

Matt Edmondson interviews Penn and Teller on BBC Radio 1 this morning (Saturday 17th) between 10am-1pm (Matt is covering for Vernon Kay). "Penn and Teller, Hammersmith Apollo, London" Guardian review, Click Here. 17.7.10

 

Mark James Lecture - Darlington Magic Circle. The Darlington Magic Circle is hosting a two-part lecture by Mark James on Thursday 5th August (7.30pm for 8pm start). "The first half of the evening is devoted tosStand-up and comedy in magic – Mark has an enviable background in this area and will be sharing many tips. A must for those wanting to perform comedy even if not interested in magic. The second half focuses on Mark's close-up work and his recent work on Wayne Dobson's latest DVDs." Further details: Iain Jae, Secretary, The Darlington Magic Circle iainjae@ntlworld.com www.thedarlingtonmagiccircle.co.uk. 17.7.10

 

Congratulations to Sean Heydon following his invitation to perform in the heats of "The Next Big Thing" a competition organised by The Event Show focusing on corporate entertainment. In Sean's heat popular acts included Tootsie Rollers, Tony Rudd, Karla Bernardi, Dan Hewitt and Streetball Extreme. The judges, made up of corporate entertainment bookers and agents, declared Sean the heat winner and he will be performing in the semi-finals at the NEC in September during The Event Show (good luck Sean!) www.alternativemagic.com. 17.7.10

 

Care & Share Balloon Fun Day - Surry. Graham Lee has another Care & Share Balloon Fun Day coming up in Banstead, Surrey, 'The Dashing Diane Day' on Friday 30th July from 10am - 5pm. The day is free and includes a small lunch, but book early as places are limited. As long as you can twist the basics then the day will be of benefit. More details: www.balloonchat.co.uk. There will be three hands-on lecture/workshop sessions throughout the day, with two fun competitions to join in with, plus all the usual fun of a Care & Share Day with fun and laughter all the way. The day is designed to help everyone and includes a more advanced workshop in the afternoon. To book visit www.qualatexballoons.co.uk. 17.7.10

 

Mike and Marjorie Stokes of Playtime Balloons will be holding a workshop at the IBM British Ring Convention in Eastbourne on Wednesday afternoon, 22nd September. There will also be a Qualatex-sponsored area on their stand for balloon twisters to enjoy, with the benefit of professional help if needed. They look forward to seeing you there! 17.7.10

 

Magicians Wanted. Are you an enthusiastic modern day magician? Professional Magician Matt Parro is looking for talented magicians to work alongside him as part of a unique act. A few audition places still remain for this Friday, 23rd July, in Hassocks, West Sussex. To apply fill in the application form on the website: www.mgcofficial.com. 17.7.10

 

Obituary – Mel Wilson (1944 – 2010) Darlington Magic Circle. It is with great sadness that we report the death of one of our members, Mel Wilson. Also a member of The Flyde Mystics. Mel was a very popular member and had served on our committee as auditor. Universally known as a true gentleman he was very enthusiastic about magic, eager to learn and equally keen to assist others. Our condolences and thoughts extend to Irene, Andrew, Helen and family. Iain Jae, Secretary, The Darlington Magic Circle. 17.7.10

 

"Where a Magician Disappears. Near Vegas, Criss Angel relaxes amid crosses, fountains and Houdini's handcuffs" Click Here • Buxton Festival High Jinx Reviews, Click Here and Click Here • "No Wires Or Safety Harness - Honest! The illusionists Penn and Teller perform a levitation on Sky News" Click Here • "Penn and Teller back in UK after 16 years" Click Here • Al Smith reviews Twilight Lounge by Andrew Normansell this week, Click Here • Tom Harrison's show Mindmatics is reviewed by Ian Keable this week, Click Here • Abberline's Repository is reviewed by Roni Shachnaey, Click Here • "Cabaret Review: Escape From Stalag Luft 32DD @ Royal Vauxhall Tavern" Click Here • "Warner Hopes Carter Beats The Devil" Click Here • Thanks for all your news submissions - see you next week, Duncan. 17.7.10

 

 

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