Number 316 - 15th July 2006
British
Ring Convention 2006 - update: Trade Show Magic. This is a division of
magic that is rarely featured at conventions. A lecture/workshop will be
given by two of America's most successful tradeshow performers,
Tim Conover and
Seth
Kramer. In this unique first-time tradeshow workshop both performers
will commence with their prospective tradeshow ‘pitches’ followed by a
45-minute lecture with time for a Questions & Answer session on the
techniques involved. For those of you wanting to break into this lucrative
branch of magic this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Shep Hyken doesn't
normally appear at magic conventions. For a number of years he was a
successful tradeshow magician before breaking into the world of
'Speaking'. Shep soon became a major player in the National Speakers
Association of America, speaking to various corporate and business groups
in customer services and training, using magic to highlight key points.
His 'Magic and the Speaking Business' talk at Eastbourne will feature an
actual performance example of a speech he would present to a corporate
audience.
www.britishring.org.uk. 15.7.06
The
Magic & Laughter Show. Mark Worgan is staging "The Magic & Laughter
Show" at the Hippodrome Theatre, Seaside Road, Eastbourne BN21 3PF (Map)
on September 9th at 8pm. Starring
Dave Brown,
Mel Harvey and
Martyn James & Co
and Mark Worgan.
Tickets are £14 and £13 with a £1 reduction for children and senior
citizens. Mark will be know to many readers as the man behind the
excellent Klub Magic shows at the Komedia in Brighton. To book online
Click Here. 15.7.06
Magic
at the Barn. Starring Oliver Tabor and Scott Pepper, with guest spots
from Lee Kiddie and Paul Brown (who will also be performing close-up
before the show). Featuring award winning magic and hilarious comedy set
in the intimate atmosphere of an enchanting 17th Century barn. 3pm and
7.30pm on Saturday 22nd July and 3pm and 7.30pm on Sunday 23rd July.
Suitable for the whole family. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for
children, available by phoning 07900 543384 or online
www.amazeandamuse.co.uk. The Barn at Sutton Hall Farm, Shopland Road,
Rochford, Essex SS4 1LQ. 15.7.06
Welcome
to Wonderland - Part IV. "Witness the impossible as three top magical
illusionists from around the world take to the stage in what's looking to
be a sell-out show. Don't miss guest magicians Michael Jay and Tony
Spallino who will be flying in all the way from America to perform their
unique brands of themed magic. Also starring the spooky wizardry of
Carpathian vampire Alucard Van Horn, the mind trickery of Wayne Clancy,
and compere David Fung, this one-night-only show promises to deliver an
amazing evening of live entertainment." Saturday 21st October, Doors open
6:30pm, Showtime: 7pm. Venue: Allum Hall, 2 Allum Lane, Elstree,
Hertfordshire WD6 3PJ (Map). Tickets are £10.00 each and include
refreshments. Book online:
www.welcome-to-wonderland.com or by phone: 07765 000 974 or by post
(cheques payable to "Gary Dowell") to: Welcome to Wonderland, PO Box 607,
Edgware HA8 4EU. Call 07765 000 974 for more information or
visit the website
www.welcome-to-wonderland.com. 15.7.06
Neil
Burger's The Illusionist opens in the States on August 18th. Based on
Steven Millhauser's short story 'Eisenheim the Illusionist' it is a
supernatural mystery that combines romance, politics and magic. The
Illusionist is the latest film from the producers of the Oscar winners
Crash and Sideways. The film stars Academy Award nominees Edward Norton
and Paul Giamatti as two men pitted against each other in a battle of
wits: Norton as mysterious stage magician Eisenheim, and Giamatti as
Vienna's shrewd Chief Inspector Uhl, with Jessica Biel sharing the screen
as the beautiful Sophie von Teschen. Directed and written by Neil Burger.
Music by Philip Glass. Technical advisors for Magic:
Ricky Jay and
Michael Weber. Magician consultancy:
Dynamic FX Ltd.
Magic consultants:
James Freedman and
Scott Penrose.
Visit
www.theillusionist.com (excellent site) for trailers and more. 15.7.06
Recognition
for Objective's magical creativity. Objective Productions had three of
their shows listed in the recent Creative Report published by Broadcast,
the weekly newspaper of the UK television industry. In the category of
‘Most Creative Entertainment’, Broadcast named Objective shows ‘Derren
Brown – The Heist ‘, ‘Derren Brown – Trick Of The Mind’ and ‘Dirty
Tricks’, giving Objective more entries in the category than any other UK
independent production company - and more than the BBC Entertainment
department. Broadcast’s Creative Report aims to establish the gold
standard for the industry by analysing the winners and short-listed
entries for the major national and international TV awards ceremonies over
the past twelve months. Anthony Owen (photo), Objective’s Head of Magic
and Executive Producer of all three programmes (along with Objective’s CEO
Andrew O’Connor) said “It is terrific for the creativity of our programmes
to be recognised by our peers in the television industry. All the praise
is due to the fantastic team of performers and consultants and the great
production teams I am fortunate to have working with me. Thanks must go to
Channel Four for continuing their legacy of broadcasting and supporting
the world’s most innovative magical performers.” 15.7.06
FISM
merchandising programme. Featuring a carefully selected range of FISM
branded products including T-shirts, Polo-shirts, bags, jackets, key-rings
and other accessories this merchandise is aimed at FISM magicians and
magic fans around the world. Eric Eswin, FISM Secretary General said:
"FISM aims to enhance the art of magic worldwide while continually
improving services to members. The launch of the FISM Store is another
milestone in FISMs development." Visit
www.fismstore.com
to order online. 15.7.06
New
- Trilogy Streamline - Now in stock! Trilogy Streamline is already
receiving excellent reviews; original idea by Brian Caswell with new patter and
structure by Richard Bellars: "I first saw Brian Caswell's Trilogy as a
demo by Peter Nardi, it blew my head off and I immediately put it into my
professional act. Then a few issues arose with it, I wanted it to take up
less space in my pocket and I didn't like the idea of not having the deck
in play from the beginning. Also I didn't want any pen and paper for the
effect. I saw right at the end of the instructions by Brian that there was
the possibility of a streamlined deck handling but he merely hinted at it.
I have now taken this idea to the extreme. Trilogy Streamline comes
complete with the Trilogy Streamline deck, exact handling, justifications
and patter that I use to absolutely fry spectators and magicians." Visit
www.alakazam.co.uk
for more information and to order. 15.7.06
Buckinghamshire
Association of Magicians has just completed its first year in which
the clubs' activities included workshops, self development sessions,
learning, internal lectures and general friendly banter. BAM is still
looking for more members in the Buckinghamshire area (or further afield if
you are happy to travel). With a new venue in the pipeline it looks as if
it will be easier for those on the Milton Keynes side of the county to
join them. The next meeting is August 3rd and it's a show - you are more
than welcome to attend. For more information contact Sam X
sam@magicsamx.co.uk. 15.7.06
Come
Fly With Me... "The plot is simple, yet the magic is stunning. Not
one, not two, but three coins travel from the right fingertips across to
the left fingertips. This is visual coin magic taken to a whole new level.
Mark's revolutionary new handling for this modern classic will guarantee a
mind blowing experience for any audience." Made in the USA with Morgan silver
dollars to last a lifetime, complete with step by step instructional DVD.
Mark Mason would like to thank both Bob Kohler and Steve Dusheck for their
kind permission in allowing Come Fly With Me to be produced. Come Fly With
Me will be released at FISM 2006 - pre-order now from
www.jbtv.co.uk "When
you first showed me your coins across routine, I would have sworn you were
doing the best sleeving I've ever seen. Then, I noticed that you were
wearing a short-sleeved shirt. Honestly, I had no idea how you could make
those coins travel so invisibly! And I know all the other methods. When
you showed me what you were doing, I marveled at the beautiful, and clever
workmanship of the coins. Please let me be one of the first to purchase a
set." Bob King. Visit
www.jbtv.co.uk for more information and to order. 15.7.06
A
Key By Any Other Name by Riley. "Possibly the definitive book on how
to escape from handcuffs! For many years "Riley" and David Deval talked of
updating the SAS book. Unfortunately David passed away before they could
do so. After a little persuasion to share his years of experience, Riley
has put into print everything you need to know about getting out of a pair
of handcuffs covering methods for opening most of the styles of handcuffs
and leg irons that you are ever likely to come across. Showing you how to
adapt keys and make various shims and picks to cover almost any
eventuality, it's all here. Thinking of becoming the next Houdini? Then
there is no better place to start." Visit
www.topsecretmagic.co.uk and select the 'New In' button. (A Top Secret
Magic Exclusive). 15.7.06
Charlie
Peterson's Primary Magic lecture has just been added to the MagicWeek
Lecturers section. "This entertaining
lecture offers practical ideas on how to make a living as a magician doing
educational school assembly programmes. Charlie Peterson has been
performing magic for over twenty years, and it has been his full-time
career for the past eighteen. He currently averages 400+ shows per year
and still has over two months off for holidays (if he chooses not to work
other venues!). If you want to learn some of the secrets to making
educational magic your career, including marketing tips, promotion, and
ways to develop your own niche market, then this lecture is for you."
Charlie specialises in educational school programmes. His lecture will
include not only children’s magic, but will give you ideas on how to
change standard magic props into educational tools.
www.magicassembly.co.uk. 15.7.06
Sean
Heydon Live in Coventry. On Friday August 4th Sean Heydon will launch
his all new parlour magic show at the Menzies Leofric Hotel in Coventry,
featuring special guests "Men with Bananas" - a hilarious non-magic act!
For more information
Click Here. 15.7.06
Chris
Congreave appeared at a charity Garden Party on July 9th run by the
Heritage Foundation in aid of Royal Grammar School. The event has been
going since 1991 when the first celebrity to attend was Peter Sellers.
Chris is seen here with Nicholas Parsons OBE
www.christophercongreave.co.uk. 15.7.06
The
Return of the Chinawhite Magic Show - A Sav production for Chinawhite,
Air Street, London, Thursday, July 20th. With Sav - Chinawhite
deceptionist in residence, Noel Qualter - master of close-up magic, Rob
Fox - breaking the boundaries of magic and psychological entertainment,
Michael Korel - Chinawhite's resident psychic, Paul Zenon - one of the
world's busiest comedy magicians, Keith (The Thief) Charnley - he'll
literally steal the show, Alex Crow - presenting his Russian Roulette
routine, and Duncan Trillo - contemporary sleight of hand magician.
Members only.
www.chinawhite.com. 15.7.06
Romi
and Kerry Scorah enchanted guests attending this years Fantasia
Charity Ball in Guernsey. They were flown in specially to entertain and
left visitors spellbound after an evening of tarot reading and close-up
magic.
www.romi-enchantress.com
www.kerryscorah.co.uk. 15.7.06
Illusionist
Andrew Green will be appearing at the Gaiety Theatre, Ayr, from Friday
21st July until Saturday 26th August Wednesday to Saturday, with a matinee
on the Wednesdays. This revue style show with its full company of singers,
dancers and a comedian will be featuring Andrew performing several of his
custom made illusions within this fast paced Squires Johns Production.
Andrew is also thrilled to be joined in September by the beautiful Gwen
Hallam (from Charles Bach's - Wonders Show) and will be performing some
brand new material during their month together cruising.
www.modernmysteries.co.uk. 15.7.06
Jay
Fortune is the 'brave' guest magician to join the
Malcolm Marvelle - Master of Mystery and the lovely Rita show in
Edinburgh. The League of Gentlemen's Reece Shearsmith saw the West End
production of this spoof magic act created by Richard Leigh, Naomi Paxton
and Anthony Pearson and said... "Everything I love... magic, comedy and
pure terror!" 15.7.06
DoDeckaDeal
by John Archer. Alakazam Magic Presents a fantastic coincidence effect
using a pack of cards - as seen on the best-selling DVD Educating Archer.
"An experiment is conducted to find the relationship between chance and
choice. A deck of cards is fairly shown. After briefly shuffling the deck,
half is given to a spectator, who again shuffles them and then begins to
deal them into a small pile. The spectator is instructed to stop dealing
by chance whenever she likes. The magician shuffles his half and allows
the spectator to make a free choice from the face up cards. This chosen
card is placed face up onto the spectator's pile. Now this same procedure
is repeated twice more for the sake of scientific consistency. When the
piles are examined it is found that the card stopped at by chance in every
case is the exact mate of the card selected by choice! Can be repeated for
the same audience! Easy to do! Extremely quick reset! DoDeckaDeal is
supplied with full written instructions and special Bicycle deck of
cards." Available from
www.alakazam.co.uk. 15.7.06
Black
Artefacts are pleased to announce that at last they have been able to
produce a candle that drips 'blood' as it burns! "This new item, called
'The Bleeding Candle' makes a fantastic prop for any weird or spooky
presentation or especially for a séance. Devilishly simple in operation
the candle can be used unlit as an interesting prop or it can be used
whilst burning, just watch the blood slowly drip from the candle and
congeal with the wax. Each buyer receives a ready made bleeding candle and
the necessary 'stuff' and instructions to make even more." Available only
from the accessories and props section of the Black Artefacts online
catalogue:
www.blackhart.co.uk. 15.7.06
Northern
Magic Circle Junior Day Results: The Johnny Neptune Trophy for the
Close-up Competition was won by Michael Jordan, with Steven Bridges in
second place. The Phyllis Davison Shield for Stage Magic was won by
Michael and Siobhan Jordan as High Jinx, with Philip Nelson coming in
second. The Quiz Winners were: St Johns Circle, Steven Bridges, James
Broadbent and Christopher Michie. Presentations were made by Northern
Magic Circle President Ian Crosswaite who then closed the day with thanks
to everyone involved. All competitors received a certificate and a magic
book courtesy of Kaymar Magic.
www.northernmagiccircle.org.uk. 15.7.06
Merlins latest July/August 16 page Preview Catalogue is now out. If you are not already on their mailing list, then send them an email with your postal address, and they'll send you a free copy merlins@btconnect.com They will also add you to their new 'Premail list' and send you their twice monthly 'Premail' featuring new items, special offers, information and more. 15.7.06
Poole Magic Show. Magician Jamie Adams presents a charity showcase of magic to raise money for a little girl (Cherri) who is suffering from leukemia. The Show will be held at the Branksome St Aldhelms Centre, Poole Road, Poole on July 30th. Doors open at 6.15pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are just £5.00 from Jamie Adams on 01425 611589. There will be a buffet and refreshments and a raffle. Jamie Adams, Paul Hyland, Kelly Adams and Wesley Stone will all be performing and Mike Danata will be coming out of retirement for the evening to perform a thirty minute spot. Jamie emails "All proceeds will go towards providing a little comfort for Cherri. She is just three years of age and is suffering terribly. Please come along and help support the evening." www.jamie-adams.com. 15.7.06
News from Bolton Magicians' Club: "Just emptied out that cupboard of forgotten magic tricks? Lost the instruction sheet for that old favorite? Found the prop, but forgotten the routine? Bring your old magic problem along to Bolton Magicians' Club on 26th July at 8.30pm and we'll help you puzzle it out!" This meeting will be held at the new venue of Bolton Magicians' Club in the Club Mistry Complex, 187 Derby Street, Bolton. Visit www.clubmistry.co.uk for a map and directions. Meetings are held on alternate Wednesdays at 8.30pm. Visiting magicians from other societies are always welcome. For more information visit www.bolton-magic.co.uk or telephone Jim Heaton on 01204 403884, or Jim Burrows on 07850 356709. 15.7.06
Bath Circle of Magicians present their new international lecture programme: Friday 15th September: Charles Gaucci. Thursday 28th September: Charlie Frye. Friday 20th October: Oz Pearlman. All lectures start at 8pm at St Mary's Church Hall, Saltford, Bath. Tickets are £10 per lecture, or a special price of £25 for all three! For tickets or further details contact Simon Lane (01225) 313551 . 15.7.06
"Magic is not enjoying a golden era in Italy at the moment. Television producers realised some time ago that, given the reality TV boom, it was more profitable to show an incapable magician and make fun of him messing up the tricks than it was to pay a professional to perform his act. Thus the most famous magician currently on Italian TV is a complete disaster - a figure of fun for the audience and an embarrassment for other magicians who are finding it increasingly difficult to be taken seriously. Television work is now almost non-existent and when it does happen it is badly produced because nobody believes in magic as a viable form of entertainment..." But it's not all doom and gloom. To read the full article from Thomas Blackthorne (that includes website and video links) Click Here. 15.7.06
The
Bullet Trick by Louise Welsh is available from Amazon.co.uk
Click Here - "When magic is murder"
Click Here • See what's on offer at the dealers:
Cool Magic • As promised last week
here's the low-down on
Wedding Magic by J Prince (full name omitted to spare him from his
real-life clients!) • "Magicians gather downtown to swap tricks of the
trade"
Click Here • "Magician reveals his secrets"
Click Here • "Welcome home, Mac King"
Click Here • "Do you believe in magic?"
Click Here • Your UK magic news is always welcomed, see you next week,
Duncan. 15.7.06