Number 88 - 2nd March 2002

 

What a great convention the 50th Blackpool Magicians' Club Convention was. I think what made it such a success this year was the sheer volume of people and the general "buzz" that surrounded the whole event, combined with some of the world's finest magicians of course. There truly was something for everyone, from the intricacies of Lennart Green's close-up to the inventiveness of Peter Marvey's illusions. My top three? McBride, Nielsen and Pasquale, all three in tip-top form.

 

Here are the competition results:

British Magical Grand Prix Champion: David Penn

British Magical Close-up Grand Prix Champion: Etienne Pradier.

British Magical Champion of Illusion: David Penn

British Magical Champion of Comedy: The Great Nardini

British Magical Champion of General Magic: Hezi Dean

United Kingdom Children's Entertainer of the Year: Ron Popple

 

Many congratulations to them all, and to organisers Ian Ogilvy and Derek Lever, together with "the team" that included just about every member of the Club. They are working on next year already! To read a "personal highlights" overview by Matthew Blackwell Click Here (Thanks to Matthew, and to John Derris for the photos). 2.3.02

 

Paul Daniels is the featured magician in this month's Magic Profile seen here in a poster advertising a live appearance at the Maison Royale in Bournemouth back in 1975 with a prophetic quote from David Nixon "definitely destined for super stardom." The TV show "For My Next Trick" had just finished transmission and it was indeed a turning point in Paul's career. Also look out for Paul Daniels on BBC2's Shooting Stars at 9.30pm on Monday 4th March as Vic and Bob make him "get in the box!" 2.3.02

 

Jonathan Royle (formerly known as Alex-Leroy) has just returned from Amsterdam after filming a new six part TV Series and one-hour TV Special. Produced by Mudlark Films Ltd of Bray Studios (Hammer Horror) the show is entitled "Life In The Bus Lane!!" and features Royle on the Streets of Amsterdam and in other unusual locations amazing and amusing with his magical skills, stand up comedy, mind-reading feats, and hypnotic talents. There is also a "Pranks" section in which Royle entices members of the public to take part in "Psychic Tree Slapping," "Belly Button Reading," "Dog's Paw Reading" and other bizarre stunts. The shows are currently being edited, a worldwide distribution deal is about to be signed, and they should be on our TV screens towards the end of this year. 2.3.02

 

News in from Paul Gordon: On Thursday 21st February, The Sussex Magic Circle hosted its own Golden Jubilee Celebration (in Lewes, East Sussex) celebrating their first 50 years, 1952 - 2002. Old friends and members were reunited and some performed including Peter Scarlett, Peter Steadman, Martyn Long, Arthur Cook and organiser/compere - Mark Worgan. Their guest of honour was David Berglas (accompanied by his charming wife, Ruth) who was the president from 1955-1963. David kindly gave a talk and presented some excellent magic as well (photo: David Berglas with current president Paul Gordon). The evening was full of reminiscences and a chance to peruse the extensive memorabilia, collated by Alison Worgan. Catering was arranged my member Dave Gingell and friends. Cynthia Neptune travelled from Newcastle and then travelled back up to Blackpool - how's that for friendship & dedication! Over 80 guests had a wonderful time - here's to 2052! Visit: www.thesussexmagiccircle.co.uk  2.3.02

 

On the 23rd April 2002 the British Magical Society will present An Evening with Michael Vincent. The name Michael Vincent goes hand in hand with technical and artistic excellence in the field of magic. Over the last ten years Michael has earned an enviable reputation for being one of the UK's top corporate magicians. He has performed for many celebrities: Sidney Poitier, Dame Vera Lynn, Bob Monkhouse, Michael Jackson, Muhammad Ali and HRH Prince Charles. A true master of close-up amgic. Evening details: To be held at The British Magical Society Headquarters, Selly Oak Ex-Servicemen's Club, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 7DL. Non Members £5.00 For more information contact The BMS President Andy Kirk on 01562 825231. 2.3.02

 

Magic Circle magician Tim Saiet was the main magician for the West Maclaren Mercedes Team last year, seen here with Pablo Montoya. However he may be doing some extra work for Williams this year involving going around the world interviewing the drivers at races, and performing magic at launch events. 2.3.02

 

David Lang has just launched a new Yahoo Group for those specifically interested in commercial close-up magic. That is, those who perform regularly for the paying public, full or part time. It is not for amateurs, hobbyists or beginners. Interested parties should send an email to: closeupworkers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com 2.3.02

 

Congratulations to Philip Partridge on winning The Order of Magi's annual cabaret competition last week. This is the third time in a row that Philip has won performing as the "Camp Comedy Conjuror" and is the only member in the Club's history (formed 1909) to have made it a hat trick www.philippartridge.co.uk 2.3.02

 

The Magic Circle Annual Supper takes place on April 17th at The Imperial Hotel, Russell Square, London WC1 (6.30pm for 7.00pm, dress informal). Dinner, close-up magic and cabaret. Contact Brian Miller MIMC for tickets at £30.00 each on 01371 870927. 2.3.02

 

Back by popular demand... plans are underway for the return of the Scottish Close-up and Comedy Magic Convention. In the past this convention has featured: Juan Tamariz, Geoffrey Durham, Bob Read, Peter Kane, Patrick Page, Magic Bob, Gordon Bruce and many other magic 'names.' The plan is to hold this year's convention in October. All interested parties, dealers, and performers should email paulbrignall@ukscreen.com for more information. The convention will be held in Edinburgh. 2.3.02

 

Martin Breese handed me a "hot off the press" Martin Breese Newsletter at the Blackpool convention last weekend. 16 A4 pages full of news and product information, including the latest news on their range of interview CD's. The newsletter is very good and if you'd like a copy then visit Martin Breese Magic and request one (by email). 2.3.02

 

Blackpool was in the news again on Wednesday evening when The Money Programme looked at the proposed new gambling regulations that would do away with current restrictive casino legislation. Businessman Marc Etches wants to build a £130 million Vegas style casino along Blackpool's golden mile... it would be good for magicians! • I'm trying to locate a Linking Ring manufacturer based in the UK - if you have any contacts I'd be really grateful if you could email me • That's it for this week - your magic news and reviews always welcomed, see you next week, Duncan. 2.3.02

 

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