Number 506 - 6th March 2010

 

A-Bar-Cadabra! Illusions Magic Bar opens in Manchester. While other bars may claim to have a 'magic' atmosphere, Illusions is the only bar in Manchester that literally does. Illusions is the UK's first branded Magic Bar concept, dedicated to the art of magic, featuring live magic shows every night from some of the best home grown talent, together with visits from international magicians throughout the year. Manchester is home to the second Illusions magic bar for business partners Mark Bennett and Sylvie Dagallier. The first is in Bristol, which last year was awarded 'The Best Entertainment Pub of Great Britain 2009' and the owners hope to bring the same success to the new Manchester venue. Mark Bennett said: "The first bar in Bristol has only been open for two years and to win the Best Entertainment Pub of the Year award was a dream come true for us... we hope to replicate that success here in Manchester." Specialising in live magic and live music, the bar has its own baby grand piano and will see some dazzling performances from local talent. For budding Manchester magicians every Wednesday night there is an open mic night, for local talent to show off their tricks. Illusions Magic Bar does not charge entry and the magic shows are free - the perfect way to start your night! Visit www.illusionsmagicbar.co.uk for more information. 6.3.10

 

P C Sorcar Jr performs at the London Ananda Utsav 2010 on Saturday and Sunday March 20th and 21st in the Great Hall, Alexandra Palace. "Anandabazar Patrika presents a unique and fun-filled event to be held in London, UK from the 19th to 21st March 2010. The P.C. Chandra London Ananda Utsav is an initiative to bring together the vast Bengali community living in the UK by providing a platform where they can celebrate the essence of Bengal. This festival is the first of its kind in the UK and the venue for this fun fiesta will be the incredible and splendid Alexandra Palace situated in North London. The three day event will see outstanding performances by the best of Bengali and Indian artists and performers." Visit www.londonanandautsav.com for booking details. 6.3.10

 

South Tyneside International Magic Convention Friday 12th to Sunday 14th March. Germany's Gentleman Juggler Jeton (photo) has just been added to the line up of artists appearing at the convention next week, together with added talks from Israel’s Roni Shachnaey and the UK’s Richard McDougall. The registration fee of £65.00 includes all eight lectures, close-up sessions, the two Gala Shows, and free access to the exclusive “Midnight Show” on Friday night at the convention HQ. Magic dealers attending include: Magic Box, Five of Hearts Magic Productions, Wayne Dobson (Dtrik), Kaymar Magic, Magicians Cave, Adrian Sullivan and Dave Forrest. Visit www.southtyneside.info/visitingus/magic-festival for full details. There will also be a number of additional Master Classes on Sunday 14th March at Customs House. Each session is limited to just 20 people and costs £60.00 per class. Featuring: Lennart Green - From Chaos to Order & Impossible Locations. "Lennart will lead you through the skills involved in card control, how to secretly arrange cards and will show you a variety of self-working effects." Tim Sonefelt - To Sell or Not to Sell, Insider Secrets to Back of Room Sales "You will learn the secrets to substantially Increasing your income through back of the room sales! Bands do it, speakers do it, touring theatre shows do it and so should you!" and, Joshua Quinn - Conjunction. "Joshua will present a workshop on his acclaimed gimmickless, examinable, self-linking business card effect, Conjunction." 6.3.10

 

Thom Peterson joins the line up for the Irish Ring 85 Diamond Jubilee convention (April 30th-May 2nd) in Belfast. He will be lecturing, performing stage and close-up magic and will also have a dealer stand. Thom’s performance has been sponsored in memory of the late Wallace Blair - long term society member and previous convention organiser. The Headquarters Hotel is now fully booked, except for those rooms which have been reserved for conventioneers. These will be released to the public on March 19th so anyone wishing to stay is therefore asked to contact the hotel without delay. The convention website www.online-usm.com/Convention.html has now been fully updated with a list of lecturers, performers, dealers and a provisional schedule of events. 6.3.10

 

Magic Moments Day. Jay Fortune launched Magic Moments Day in 2008. The idea being to set aside a day each year where magicians across the country could stage a show for charity, performing to an audience of their choosing, raising funds and smiles, simultaneously. Jay proposed that I set up a page on MagicWeek so that the day could build more momentum by having a permanent 'home' that could be seen weekly by thousands of magicians, and I was happy to agree. So, please do keep an eye out for updates on the new 'Magic Moments' page as the day develops in 2010. Details of this year's day will appear in the coming weeks. DT. 6.3.10

 

Conjuring at the Court. On the last Thursday of every month, the Drayton Court hosts an evening of mystery and magic: "For our show on 25th March, we’re delighted to feature the very funny mind-reading of Graham Jolley, the silky-smooth sleight-of-hand of Michael Vincent; the comedy double-act of Dave Loosley and Joe Derrington; and the charming young Ed Hilsum producing doves from nowhere. The show is presented by genial up-and-coming TV personality Paul Metcalfe." The venue is the lovely theatre of the Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing, London W13 8PH (Map). It seats over 90 people comfortably and you can have a drink while watching the magic." Tickets £10.00. Doors open at 7.30pm and the show starts at 8pm. Free parking after 6.30pm on adjacent roads. To book visit www.conjuringatthecourt.com or buy on the door if any are left, this show does sell out. 6.3.10

 

The Production Suite are on the hunt to find Britain’s Best Crazy Kid’s Entertainer. The Production Suite have a progressive, forward thinking view of children’s entertainment and have written a very successful programme utilised by major tour operators. Fantastic prizes on offer include a development session with their team of expert producers and guaranteed bookings. Auditions to be held in early/mid March; Competition 6th – 10th April in London. For more details call 020 8407 2911/12 or visit www.productionsuite.co.uk. About The Production Suite: "The Production Suite are a talented group of entertainment professionals who are passionate about delivering great results for our clients. Born in 1996 we are the UK’s Number 1 provider of top to tail entertainment to the holiday industry. We have over 75 combined years of experience producing entertainment for all of the UK’s Tour Operators. We create exciting production shows, original game shows, imaginative daytime entertainment, children’s shows and formats for all age-groups. Our agency books and contracts cabaret artists, comedians, children’s entertainer’s, vocalists, bands and speciality acts and if it doesn’t exist? Then we produce and deliver to your exact requirements." www.productionsuite.co.uk. 6.3.10

 

Introducing MagicianFX.co.uk "Magician FX magic site owner Gary Bryson has been working as a professional magician for over 11 years, performing all over the UK. Gary feels suitably equipped to pass on his professional advice, help and working knowledge to customers. The shop features over 35 exclusive magic tricks and DVDs together with a large range of magic tricks, DVDs and books. During March, all customers will benefit from a 10% discount on the entire range: www.magicianfx.co.uk, and to book and Magician FX for a free Magic Club Dealer Demonstration evening contact Gary via www.magicianfx.co.uk." 6.3.10

 

Wessex Magical Association presents Gary Jones on Tuesday 9th March. Gary Jones's lecture offers something for everyone including those interested in table hopping and/or in working in corporate environments. It will also contain information of particular interest to those who are anxious about using sleights. This will be a great lecture and a highly entertaining night. The evening starts at 7.30pm for 8pm and visiting magicians are especially welcome for a nominal £5 fee. The location is the Bourne Valley Community Association, 56 Herbert Avenue, Poole, Dorset BH12 4EE (Map). More info from Dr Alan Chitty, WMA Publicity Officer on 01202 883474 or achitty@tiscali.co.uk. The Wessex Magical Association attracts members from Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and beyond. www.wmagic.co.uk. 6.3.10

 

The Working Magician - new interviews added. Scott Pepper was armed with his microphone at the Blackpool Magic Convention a couple of weeks ago, and has now added more magic interviews to 'The Working Magician' page of his website. There are interviews with Dave Allen (children's entertainer), Mike Rose (close-up magician), Richard Whymark (comedy magician) Amy Lauren (agent, booker and comedy magician), Jay Fortune (magician) and Duncan Trillo (MagicWeek). Visit www.scottpepper.com and click on 'The Working Magician' to see, and listen to, the full range of free audio downloads. Scott would like to hear from you if you'd like to be interviewed. Contact Scott at info@scottpepper.com. 6.3.10

 

British Magical Society - Annual Dinner. On Saturday March 27th the British Magical Society, with President Mike Gancia and President-Elect Elizabeth Warlock presiding, holds its Annual Dinner at the Ramada Hotel, Penns Lane, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham. This sparkling event with great food, brilliant cabarets, Tombola, raffle and close-up magic at the tables, is noted by many around the country as one of the main events in the magical calendar. For such a special evening tickets at only £35.00 are a snip. This year's cabaret features the sparkling comedy of Mark Shortland, brilliant manipulation by prize-winning teenager Danny Jewel, and the amazing illusions of Martyn James & Co. Presentations include the David Berglas Award for outstanding service to magic. Treat yourself to a great night out by contacting Pamela Buckley on 01827 715660. 6.3.10

 

Hey Presto Show, Bingley. Bradford Magic Circle are hosting their annual Hey Presto Magic show at Bingley Arts Centre on March 20th at 7.30pm. "This year's show includes current Magic Circle Young Magician of The Year, Michael Jordan, as well as Junior World Magic Champion, Stephen Williams. Other acts include Bradford Magic Circle President Jon Harris, the young and talented Patricia Duncan, as well as multiple award winning illusion act, High Jinx. The Compère this year is the hilariously funny Terry Herbert (photo). The show will also include dancing from The Spotlight Dancers." Book early via www.bradford-theatres.co.uk, telephone 01274 432000. Tickets are also available from Keighley and Shipley Information shops, The Council Shop and Travel Options on Main Street Bingley, or any Bradford Council ticket agency. 6.3.10

 

Book early for Blackpool 2011! Even before the Blackpool Magicians’ Convention 2010 had ended magicians were booking for the 2011 Convention, which will open on Friday 18th February 2011. The full cost of registration is just £85.00 and every member of a FISM associated magical society will automatically qualify for a free book 'The World’s Most Ingenious Magical Apparatus'. There will be no Day Tickets or VIP Tickets and no After Gala Party. The Blackpool Magicians' Club have also announced that, after extensive meetings with the FISM European Board, they will host the first ever FISM European Championships of Magic in 2011 as a part of the Convention. Early registration is recommended for the World's Largest Magic Convention! Registration forms can be downloaded from www.blackpoolmagic.com. 6.3.10

 

Magic ebook for Chile. Graham Justice emailed last week with details of Pablo Amirá's ebook that is being sold to raise money for Chile following the major earthquake that the country suffered on February 27th. "Pablo Amirá is a young magician living in Temuco, a city in southern Chile, capital of Cautín Province - As you know Chile has suffered a catastrophic Earthquake some small towns have been completely destroyed. Thankfully Pablo has not been injured, he is offering his latest ebook for $15 and is donating the proceedings to assist his country." Visit Graham's website for full details and to support this project: www.digiquick.com.au/chile.html. 6.3.10

 

Tin Opener. News from Mark Southworth: "The Blackpool Convention saw the pre-release of my new effect, Tin Opener. For those of you that haven't heard about the effect, it is a signed card to impossible location effect (a mint tin!). Tin Opener is now available via www.marksouthworth.co.uk. 6.3.10

 

Steve Dela, two time British Ring IBM close-up champion, Young Magician of the Year, three time winner of the IBM Rovi Trophy for card magic and star of the sell out show Fantasmagoria, lectures for The Academy of Magic this Sunday (7th March). The lecture will be held at The Phoenix Artist Club, Charing Cross Road, London (doors open 7.30pm) or watch the whole lecture live online from 8.30pm on www.academyofmagic.com. 6.3.10

 

The organisers of The Comedy Magic Workshop www.comedymagicworkshop.co.uk are pleased to announce the addition of Ian Keable www.iankeable.co.uk to an already fantastic line-up... "Ian is quite literally the man who wrote the book on Stand-Up Comedy Magic and the experience and knowledge that he will bring to the Workshops is certain to add a powerful extra dimension to the expertise on offer. If you have even a passing interest in using comedy in your magic, you owe it to yourself to book a place at one of these exciting events! The CMW team will be running further Workshops in Sweden, Denmark and Norway in early November. Details and dates to follow." 6.3.10

 

Phenomenon Magic Cabaret - Shrewsbury. Phenomenon Magic Cabaret returns at 8.30pm on Sunday 7th March at the Loft, The Old Post Office Public House, Shrewsbury. Tickets are £6.00. "After the first two sell-out shows Phenomenon returns with host Magic Kev 'self proclaimed alpha male and zombie killer', Phil Hasted (comedy and magic) and multi award winning magician Paul Dabek (photo)." Call 01743 241071 to reserve tickets; un reserved tickets will also be available on the door. 6.3.10

 

News from MagicWorld.co.uk: "Andrew Normansell, a well-known creator and innovator of close-up and truly workable magic, has brought out a new lecture booklet entitled, Twilight Lounge. The booklet contains 13 truly unique pieces of magic, ideal for the casual amateur, through to the professional worker. The booklet is created around the idea that many amazing ideas come to light after a few Martini's, and offers you solid performing material that is extremely strong magically." For details visit: www.magicworld.co.uk. 6.3.10

 

The Northern Magic Circle are offering a chance to win an exclusive masterclass with Kostya Kimlat. Twelve lucky winners will enjoy a free two-hour masterclass with Kostya at this year's convention which will be held on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th March at the Marine Hall, Fleetwood. To enter simply mention 'Masterclass Draw' at the time of booking and you will be entered into the draw. Book online via www.northernmagic.co.uk. Along with Kostya, this year's convention is set to be one of the best yet, starring Nathan Kranzo, Guy Barrett, Chris Priest, Steve Royle, Marc Paul, Steve Hewlett, Roger Woods, Maurice Howarth, Paul Joyce, Brian Sefton, John Dixon, Darren Bonas, Stephen Williams, John Hotowka and Thom Peterson. 6.3.10

 

Scott Creasey lectures for the SCA on Wednesday 10th March at 8pm. Scott Creasey, the ESPecialist and originator of the BIP book test, will be bringing his lecture to Glasgow on Wednesday. In addition to his lecture, Scott is offering his workshop "Performing Mentalism Professionally". The workshop starts at 6pm, with a fee of £10 (includes a CD-rom for every participant). To attend the workshop contact Scott Cuthbertson scottcmagic@ntlworld.com in advance. The lecture starts at 8pm, visiting magicians welcome. Venue: Walton Conference Centre, Southern General Hospital, Glasgow G51 4TF (Map). www.scottishconjurersassociation.org.uk. 6.3.10

 

The Dreaded Mentalist presents By Hook or By Crook. Friday April 30th, Saturday May 1st, Doors open 7.30pm, show starts 8pm. "Jez Starr, The Dreaded Mentalist, brings you a unique mentalism show based on themes from the cult 1960's TV series 'The Prisoner'. In this show Jez will be demonstrating various techniques that can be used to Gather Information and predict Human Behaviour. As you enter the performance hall you will each be issued your own 'Number' which you will wear with pride throughout the show. You will then have your identity taken from you as you will now be referred to by this number for the rest of the night. Don't let this put you off, Jez promises a fun and exciting show with tests of Intuition, Lie Detection, Mind-Reading, Memory Feats and more surprises to come! You've seen the series, now become a number!" Ticket £8.50 available from The White Hart or contact Jez on 07749 538016 or www.facebook.com/jezstarr or Jezstarr@dreadedmentalist.com. Booking Advised Over 16's. For more information and tickets visit www.dreadedmentalist.com. Venue: The White Hart, The Bays, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3QF (Map). 6.3.10

 

London's World Famous and Original Jack the Ripper Séance is offering a crazy ticket deal for all magicians. Their Saturday March 13th performance has tickets priced at £15 each. However by emailing the organisers via their website and stating the words 'Séance Offer' in the email, you will be offered two tickets for the price of one! The Jack the Ripper Séance combines illusion, suggestion and mystery, and is hugely popular both within the magic community and with the broader general public. Visit www.seancenights.co.uk for further details. 6.3.10

 

Doctor Diablo. Following a successful appearance at 'Showzam 2010', Doctor Diablo has launched a new website www.doctordiablo.co.uk featuring "loads of video footage featuring sideshow classics, fire, escapes, nails, swords, freaks, oddities and many other dark delights!" 6.3.10

 

Congratulations to Naomi Rush winner of the Junior Performer of the Month Trophy at the Mid-Ulster Magic Circle, with an entertaining square-circle routine which culminated in the production of Easter eggs for everyone present. The juniors have all been working extremely diligently honing their skills since their recent appearance on Ulster Television. The Club meets every Wednesday in Lurgan Town Hall at 8pm. New members are always welcome. www.midulstermagiccircle.co.uk. 6.3.10

 

Theo The Magician’s Magic Sunflower Competition. News from Theo The Magician: "In Memory of Sarah Cure and Bill Shrimpton. Sarah had a Premature Baby boy Christian the same time Theo’s daughter Elena was born 10 weeks early weighing 2lbs. Christian weighed even less than Elena and his twin brother did not survive. Sarah passed away only 42 years old with Cancer in August 2009. Bill was Captain of Cheam Fields Bowls Club last year and in May 2009 also passed away with Cancer. His grand children were also cared for at The Neonatal Unit. Theo The Magician is organising this, to raise funds for both the Neonatal Unit at St Helier and The Royal Marsden, Carshalton. It will be £5 to enter; you will receive 10 Magic Seeds grown by Theo with an Authenticated Certificate. There are prizes for Tallest Sunflower, The Widest Head and the Funniest Photo with a Sunflower. Seeds can be bought now to be grown between late March and May. Magic launch night with wine and refreshments, raffle, auction, and magic show." Monday 22nd March 7pm - 9pm at Aberdour School, Brighton Road, Burgh Heath, Tadworth, KT20 6AJ. For further information and an entry registration form visit www.magictheo.com (see 'Magic Sunflower Competition') or call Theo on 07711 724129. 6.3.10

 

Magic table top sale. At Mysticals Magic Bar, 9 Rigby Road, Blackpool on Saturday 14th March from 11am to 4pm. There will be food available and the bar will be open from 12noon to 11pm. There are limited tables available, call 01253 408893 or 07810 511655 to book. 6.3.10

 

Ed Ellis from the USA lectures for The Chester Guild of Magicians on Monday 8th March at 8pm. Venue: The Bull & Stirrup, Upper Northgate Street, Chester CH1 4EE (Map). Visiting magicians welcome for a £5 door charge. Contact Steve Cooil 01244 881462 stevecooil@me.com for details. 6.3.10

 

Ed Ellis Masterclass Workshop, Sunday 14th March, 10am - 3pm. "Magic Castle regular and one of the highlights of this year's Blackpool Convention, Ed Ellis, will be hosting an intimate workshop and session here in the UK before he travels back to the States. Learn incredible routines, including 'You Blue It' and 'Ringature' with one to one tuition from 'The World's Fastest Hands', this is a brilliant opportunity with a very limited number of places available, so email as soon as possible to book your place." £30 per delegate (includes lunch, tea & coffee). Strictly limited to 15 places. Venue: The Littleton Suite, Longford House, Watling Street, Cannock, Staffs. WS11 1SJ (Map). Contact Jonti Sparrow info@po-go.co.uk to book. 6.3.10

 

House of Secrets, Blackpool. Bill Thompson's House of Secrets Magic Studio in Blackpool welcomes visiting magicians at 12 Caunce Street, Blackpool FY1 3DN (Map). For opening hours telephone 01253 620902. 6.3.10

 

Adrian Sullivan lecture. On Tuesday 9th March, the master of mystery, Adrian Sullivan will be lecturing and demming at The Pentacle Club, starting at 8pm. Visiting magicians welcome. Venue St Laurence's School, Arbury Road, Cambridge CB4 2JX (Map), £5 on door. 6.3.10

 

"You're not going to like this a lot" Click Here • "Mazuma Mobile hires Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee for TV ads" Click Here • For those that missed Blackpool this year, Russ Stevens has put up some clips from his performance on the Gala show: clip 1, clip 2, clip 3 • "Magic Business Communication" Click Here • "Hanz Ferrari Tower Vanish" Blackpool convention MC Tony Stevens has been up to his old tricks again... Click Here • "World Magic Seminar’s all-star lineup pays tribute to Siegfried & Roy" Click Here • Thanks to Dale Shrimpton for spotting the P C Sorcar Jr news. When submitting news items please let us have just a few succinct sentences, and remember the Friday 12 noon deadline. Many thanks, Duncan. 6.3.10

 

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