Number 495 - 19th December 2009

 

Sandi Toksvig's Christmas Cracker with Pete Firman. This festive season Pete is performing in 'Sandi Toksvig's Christmas Cracker' at The Royal Festival Hall. Hosted by Sandi, the show runs from 15th-24th December and stars comedy legend Ronnie Corbett as well as different guest celebrities every night. Pete is in every show! For more details and booking information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

The Session 2010 is fast approaching (16th - 17th January) and tickets are almost sold out. Just added to a line-up that already includes Joshua Jay, Danny Garcia, Rune Klan, David Acer and Thom Peterson is the extremely creative, yet seldom seen Matthew Wright. A favourite at Jeff McBride's Masterclass in Las Vegas and winner of The Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year 2008, Matthew will be performing a number of times over the weekend (including in The Session's innovative new bar magic show) and will be teaching his magic for the first time ever at a magic convention. With only 15 tickets remaining, The Session is destined to continue its tradition of selling out every single year www.sessionconvention.com. 19.12.09

 

The Innovention - Las Vegas, October 2010. News just in from Paul Stone: "On October 5th, 6th & 7th, 2010 I will be producing a very different Magic Convention in Las Vegas. Called The Innovention it will include many new ideas never before seen at any Magic Convention. The venue is The Suncoast Hotel & Casino in Summerlin, one of the nicest areas in Las Vegas, just 15 minutes from the Las Vegas 'Strip'. Full details of this event will be available when Registration opens at the start of 2010, but I can tell you that there will be world class Close-up Shows, three International Cabaret Shows, and several Workshops aimed specifically at substantially increasing the earnings of any performing magicians. The Presenters will be covering Close-up, Cabaret, Tradeshows, Speaking, Children's Magic and also Marketing & Promotion and Show Production.

 

Performers booked so far include Johnny & Pam Thompson (The Great Tomsoni & Co), Joseph Gabriel, Jeff Hobson, Kevin James, Andy Nyman, Lennart Green, Bob Kohler, Richard McDougall, Michael Close, Al Garber (Magic Al), Seth Kramer, Shep Hyken, Graham P. Jolley, and Kris Kremo. More performers including a couple of big surprises will be added in the New Year. The venue is excellent and offers a superb and intimate Las Vegas style Showroom, a Cabaret Room and four dedicated Close-up Rooms. Numbers will be carefully limited to ensure that everyone attending will be guaranteed a 'Best Seat' and will have unrivalled access to all the performers and presenters." MagicWeek will bring you full details at the start of January 2010... watch this space! 19.12.09

 

David Copperfield - A Magic Life. Magicseen are excited to announce the forthcoming publication of the only full biography of legendary magician David Copperfield. Written by French magician and author Benoit Grenier, this book takes the reader on a behind-the-scenes trip to learn what it is like to be the most recognised magician in the world. Benoit examines what it is that makes David Copperfield such a success, how he has managed to maintain his place as the No.1 performer for so long, and reveals the huge dedication and commitment that David infuses into his every show. The book gives a real insight into Copperfield the man and performer, and it makes for a fascinating read. From childhood to the present day, A Magic Life sets out to explore the David Copperfield phenomenon with background information not revealed before - it's an essential read for anyone interested in the world's most high profile magician. Publication is set for mid February 2010, but there is a special 20% price reduction for any order placed with Magicseen before January 31st 2010. For more information and to order visit www.magicseen.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

Second Illusions Magic Bar to open in Manchester! Illusions Magic Bar owners Mark Bennett and Sylvie Dagallier would like to announce that they will be opening another Illusions Magic Bar in February 2010, in Manchester. Mark writes: "Some of you may remember that we trialed the Magic Bar idea back in 2007 and we have succeeded in getting the old venue back, Ss what was once 'Pure Magic Bar' will become 'Illusions Magic Bar', Manchester. Based in the Printworks the bar will be redecorated to our designs as a sole venture between Mark and Sylvie (no backers!). We would like to thank everyone that has shown support to Illusions in Bristol and please do not worry our venue in Bristol will be staying, that’s our baby, and we will not let this new opening affect our operation in Bristol. Mark and Sylvie will keep everyone informed of opening dates. Thanks again and we hope this won't be the last!" Sylvie and Mark will be holding auditions for magicians to work in the UK’s first branded Magic Bar concept! So if anybody would like to be involved please email Mark or Sylvie directly: manchester@illusionsmagicbar.co.uk or call 07974 005 280. 19.12.09

 

Mandy Muden appears on 'Ready Steady Cook' with Claire Sweeney this Tuesday at 3.15pm on BBC2. 19.12.09

 

Cranford, BBC1 Sunday 20th and 27th December at 9pm. A character from the original novel, Signor Brunoni (Tim Curry) is an "Italian magician" advertised as "Grand Magician of Arabia and Wizard to the King of Delhi". When tragic events in Cranford lead to his show being cancelled, Peter Jenkyns determines to invite him to return for a special Christmas performance. Colourful and quick-witted, Brunoni immediately sees through Miss Pole's attempts to discover the secrets of his show and finds ways to disconcert even the ever-certain Miss Pole. Paul Kieve was the magic consultant. 19.12.09

 

Jez Starr is The Dreaded Mentalist. "Magician and mentalist Jez Starr stars in The Dreaded Mentalist on Friday 22nd January at The Sherston Inn, Wells. In this show Jez Starr presents an exciting mix of magic, mystery and mental illusions. He will be demonstrating various techniques and skills a 'Mentalist' uses in his/her art. By using audience participation, Jez will be looking in to Group Consciousness, Personality Tests, Mind-reading and Mind-Over-Matter. Ending his show with a Death Defying Grand Finale which is not for the faint hearted! Plus the offer for one volunteer to potentially walk away with £50, this is a show not to be missed!" Over 16's only. Tickets £8 from Venue: The Sherston Inn, Priory Road, Wells BA5 1SU (Map) 01749 678040. Doors open 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm. www.facebook.com/jezstarr. 19.12.09

 

Glen Neckles and John Harris entertained James Corden at the launch of Rio Ferdinand's Live the Dream Foundation in central London last week. The star-studded guest list included JLS and David Haye. 19.12.09

 

Alan Carr's Celebrity Ding Dong Christmas Special is on E4 at 11.30pm on Tuesday 22nd December. "Alan Carr's Celebrity Ding Dong returns with a Christmas special and another double dose of celebrities. Alan Carr hosts the festive showbiz game show as two teams of celebrities - the goodies and the baddies - compete against each other to prove who knows the most about showbiz gossip. The goodies are Adele Silva as Alice Fitzwarren from Dick Whittington, Paul Daniels as Baron Hardup from Cinderella, Debra Stephenson as Aladdin and team captain Barbara Windsor as the Fairy Godmother. Taking them on are Claire Sweeney as the Wicked Queen from Snow White, John Thomson as Captain Hook from Peter Pan, Michelle Collins as the Wicked Stepmother from Cinderella and team captain Joe Pasquale as Smee the Pirate from Peter Pan." 19.12.09

 

Merlins of Wakefield are proud to announce that they are the UK Exclusive retailer for Raven Magic. Raven specialise in 'Bizarre Magic' and will be releasing effects throughout 2010. The first is in stock now: www.merlinswakefield.com. 19.12.09

 

MOJOE! By John Kennedy - watch the clip and you'll flip! You'll know the name Nathan Kranzo from his Moving Tanline release or his monthly column in M.U.M. magazine, well, now Kranzo Magic is proud to offer John Kennedy's new effect MOJOE which will have you scratching your head if you watch the video at www.kranzomagic.com. Kranzo recently teamed up with our own Keith Fields to present their 'Mad, Magic And Mental' show; learn all about it here www.twoprostalking.com (episodes 7-10!). 19.12.09

 

Congratulations to Kelly Cummins (right), winner of the Bernard Weller Comedy Award at The Surrey Society of Magicians two weeks ago. The photo shows Stage Competition Winner Stephen Baker on the left and Magic Circle President Jack Delvin in the centre. This was the first time that Kelly had ever performed in front of an adult audience, usually working as a children's entertainer. www.jellykelly.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

The January 2010 issue of Magicseen is out already in time for Christmas. Editor Mark Leveridge offers a round-up: "Our cover star is Guy Bavli from Israel, and we sit down and bend a few spoons with him as we find out more about this mental master. We also talk to Steve Dela, who has more magic awards than is probably healthy for him, to Mel Mellers, who knows more jokes than is probably healthy for him, and with Sav, who knows more commercial close up routines than is probably healthy for him. We have two big features in issue 30, one on Comedy and one on Ventriloquism, both of which make for a really interesting read. Then there's part 3 of Craig Petty's excellent series on Fake Coins, the Masterclass has a mental effect and a game for children's entertainers, and then of course we have the usual colourful round up of reviews, letters, news and other bits and pieces to ensure that you have a better Christmas than your turkey will! Available now on subscription, as a single paper copy or an instant download from www.magicseen.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

Robert Fox was chosen as the only entertainment at this year's X Factor wrap party for a 4th consecutive year. The party brought together the judges, the contestants and the production team to celebrate another successful year for the show. Pictured, Robert and Joe the eventual winner. www.r-fox.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

Amethyst (Danny Hunt and Annette Claire) are to perform at Hanley's Victoria Hall on Saturday 19th December (telephone 01782 213800) and Wolverhampton Civic Theatre on Sunday 20th December (telephone 0870 320 7000) in the final two dates before Christmas of the Ken Dodd Happiness Show. Amethyst have had the pleasure of touring with legendary comedian, Ken Dodd, throughout 2009. Whilst Ken takes a short break over Christmas, Danny and Annette will continue to perform at several private and corporate events, before rejoining Ken as he kicks off his tour for the new year at Lakes Leisure on Saturday 2nd January. Amethyst will be appearing at various dates throughout 2010 in the Ken Dodd Tour www.amethyst-illusions.com. 19.12.09

 

Exclusive offer from Magic2Wear.com! Purchase "Quick Change 2" at the full price, together with "Time for a Change?" and you'll be refunded $20.10 (USD) via your PayPal account. This offer is for direct orders placed through www.magic2wear.com between now and December 31st. Normal shipping costs will apply. "Thank you to all magicians and friends who have supported our many projects during 2009 and looking forward to a blast in 2010!" Lee Alex. 19.12.09

 

One Magical Night, in Woburn, Bedfordshire. MK:Magic are hosting a Magical Dinner evening on the Friday 30th April 2010 at The Inn at Woburn in support of Cancer Research UK. The evening will include close-up illusionists and mind magicians to enthrall and entertain you as you dine. The evening starts at 7pm with a drinks reception and light entertainment. This will be followed by an exquisite three course meal and two after dinner cabaret acts. Dress Code: Formal evening wear. Tickets are on sale at £68.00 with proceeds going to Cancer Research UK. For bookings and more information visit www.mkmagic.co.uk (group bookings welcome). 19.12.09

 

Details of Tony Griffith's lecture have just been added to our 'Lecturers' page. The material in Tony's current lecture is taken from his highly acclaimed books Reflections, Further Reflections and Final Reflections. However, there is no need to be in possession of the books as everything is very fully explained. www.tonygriffith.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

Many congratulations to Richard Leigh, celebrating 10 years of producing magic and illusion shows in London Theatres, today, 19th December. Keep up-to-date via www.falseimpressions.co.uk. 19.12.09

 

Cinderella: A sparkling new adaptation with magic and circus! "This Christmas Jacksons Lane (Highgate, London) is giving the classic rags to riches tale a makeover! In our brilliantly updated version, Cinderella finds herself transported into a world of reality TV, fame and fashion as she seeks her true love on Britain s favourite talent show, set against a modern, funky soundtrack. Our innovative version includes amazing, jaw-dropping acrobatics and stunning magic tricks... expect floating tables, breathtaking stunts, disappearing acts, lots of audience participation for the little ones and a mystical mouse, all wrapped up with a sprinkling of magic in this colourful, funny, festive show for all the family. Featuring the award-winning magic performer Christian Lee as our 'Prince', who has performed at some of London's best-known venues and starring in his own TV show. At the moment, most people probably know him as the many faces of Max Magic on Sky One but to cabaret fans around the country he regularly appears as headliner and host on countless stages, including Magic Night at the Soho Revue Bar and Meet the Magic Circle, the two most prestigious events of their type in London." To Sunday 3rd January. £12.50 adults, £9.50 children & concessions, £40 family ticket. Box office: 020 8341 4421 www.jacksonslane.org.uk. 19.12.09

 

Stuart and Jayne Loughland’s Magic Light Puppet Company have Black Art UV puppet acts and Puppeteers featured in various Pantomimes across the UK: Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates of the Caribbean (Under the Sea) at the Kings Theatre Edinburgh. Jack and the Beanstalk (The Magic Garden) at the Bedworth Civic Theatre, Dick Whittington (Under The Sea) at the Carlisle Sands Centre, Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs (Haunted Forest) at Welwyn Garden City, Beauty and The Beast (Haunted Dungeon) in Clacton, and Aladdin (Wonders of the Magical Cave) at Rochdale Gracie Fields Theatre. Visit www.magiclightpuppets.com for more info. 19.12.09

 

"Magic Highlight of the Year" We'd love to hear from you. What was your personal magic highlight of the year? Large or small, something you achieved or something you saw, just for you or enjoyed by many... tell the magic world via MagicWeek! Please send a few lines to MagicWeek and we'll run them just before the end of the year. 19.12.09

 

Jilli Dog and the Magic Card Trick Click Here • "Professor Richard Wiseman's Top 10 quirky science tricks for Christmas parties" Click Here • "Ten Things You Never Knew About Derren Brown" Click Here • "Master of Panto magic" Click Here • ""So, does Paul Daniels share the Becks magic? Magician parodies David Beckham's famous Armani underwear advert" Click Here • "Paul Daniels reveals £2.5million home was burgled while he sat downstairs watching television" Click Here • "Paul Daniels burgled ‘Oliver Twist’ style" Click Here • "Conjurers offer a magical day out for families" Click Here. 19.12.09

 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our readers all over the world from the MagicWeek team, Duncan, Keiko, Amelia and Louis. Thank you to everyone who contributed throughout the year, and to all our advertisers too. Have a wonderful Christmas! (Please note: The deadline for news submissions next week is 12 noon Wednesday). 19.12.09

 

Back

 

© www.magicweek.co.uk