Number 548 - 25th December 2010

 

The Magicians - BBC1. "Incredible illusions, mind-bending magic and classic tricks with contemporary twists, performed by some of the world's best magicians. Performers include illusionist of the decade, Luis De Matos; winners of Best Comedy Illusionists at the World Magic Awards, the dark and twisted Barry and Stuart; and the King of Close-Up Magic, Chris Korn. Each week they will be joined by three different celebrities, and together they will compete to win the studio audience vote and escape the dreaded forfeit trick - an extreme feat of courage, mind over matter and a test of trust." In the first of this five-part series, the magicians are joined by Ashley Banjo, Bruno Tonioli and Sian Williams. Saturday 1st January at 7.30pm on BBC1. www.bbc.co.uk/bbcone/magicians. 25.12.10

 

Penn & Teller: Fool Us - ITV1. "Already world famous for pushing the limits of magic and illusion, the duo challenge aspiring magicians across the United Kingdom to show them their most baffling trick, from grand illusion to sleight of hand. The prize of a five-star trip to Las Vegas  and the opportunity to perform in Penn & Teller's hit stage show is up for grabs if the grand masters of magic are left baffled as to how any of the spectacular tricks were pulled off. Hosted by Jonathan Ross." Friday 7th January at 9pm on ITV1. See TV Magic for listings. 25.12.10

 

The David Meade Project - BBC1 Northern Ireland. "The David Meade Project - an innovative series that follows professional mentalist and academic Meade in what promises to be a dynamic and fresh format launches on January 12th on BBC1 Northern Ireland. Each week, David explores a different topic that sees him take his participants on an often moving, sometimes controversial, and always astonishing journey investigating themes of luck, fear, intelligence, and creativity. A celebrated academic and one of the most sought after speakers and entertainers in Europe, Meade created the series alongside Jerry Bruckheimer partner Wild Rover Productions. 'I've had an amazing 18 months working on the series, building the format and demonstrations from scratch with one of the best development teams in the world. Many participants have reported having what they consider to be life changing experiences through their involvement in the show. I've got to thank the BBC for offering me the opportunity and I hope fellow performers and the public alike will jump in and try the series out.'" For further information visit facebook.com/thedavidmeadeproject. Click Here for a sneak peek of the 'fear' episode. Wednesday 12th January 12th at 10.45pm on BBC1 Northern Ireland. 25.12.10

 

South Tyneside International Magic Festival. In addition to recently announced Jason Latimer (USA), presenting his first-ever lecture in the UK, the following magicians will be appearing at next year's South Tyneside International Magic Festival (Friday 11th - Sunday 13th March 2011). Paul Vigil (photo - USA) making his first UK appearance. In the States Paul Vigil has appeared on several hit television shows, including the Emmy award-winning Penn & Teller’s “Bullsh!t” and multiple performances on “Hocus Pocus”, hosted by Fielding West and Teresa Livingstone. David Stone (France) with an all-new lecture. David Stone started working in Saint-Tropez at some of the most prestigious restaurants of the Riviera, including 7 years in La Voile Rouge, an amazing beach restaurant where he honed his craft. His most recent book (2005) ‘Close-up: The real secrets of magic" is a best-seller in France and was sold out in less than 15 days after its release. And Norbert Ferre (France) the FISM Grand Prix, World Champion of Magic 2003. From Sydney to Las Vegas, Monte Carlo to New York, the child within Norbert Ferre lives a dream that will be shared by all those who see him. Together with, from the UK, Nicholas Einhorn, Andrew Van Buren and Gary Dunn. To pre-register email Karri karri.prinn@southtyneside.gov.uk. Facebook users Click Here. 25.12.10

 

Look who magically appeared in someone's back garden "just like that" Tommy Cooper the snowman, created and photographed by illusionist Paul Ormonde in Ireland on the morning of December 18th! www.paulormonde.com. 25.12.10

 

Derren Brown: Enigma is released on DVD on January 17th. To Pre-order from Amazon.co.uk and save 40% Click Here. "Enigma is another jaw-dropping, show-stopping theatrical event that leaves the live audience and viewers in awe of Derren’s incredible abilities to control minds and manipulate thoughts. A special tone leaves the audience hypnotised and a woman finds herself sleep-walking through the rows. Is a supernatural force summoned within the Spirit Cabinet or is the medium somehow doing Brown's bidding? Derren is at his funniest and finest in this stunning theatrical event, which brought him more rave reviews up and down the country and 'sees him climb to artistic heights rarely, if ever, achieved by any other legends of the magical arts'" (Time Out). Filmed live in front of a sold-out crowd at the New Wimbledon Theatre, the show was nominated for an Olivier Award in 2010." 25.12.10

 

QI - Hocus-Pocus (XL edition). Stephen Fry conjures up some hocus-pocus in a special Christmas edition of the quiz, with Daniel Radcliffe, Lee Mack, Graham Norton and Alan Davies. This extended edition of the show that went out on the 24th can be seen at 10.30pm on Wednesday 29th December on BBC 1. 25.12.10

 

The London Palladium Story is a two part documentary celebrating the centenary of the world's most famous theatre. Presented by Michael Grade, the programmes tell the story of a true temple of popular culture, from performances by international stars like Judy Garland, Jack Benny and Marlene Dietrich, to those of such home-grown legends like Morecambe and Wise, Tom Jones and Bruce Forsyth. Including commentary from magician and magic writer Chris Woodward. Written and co-produced by Magic Circle member Brian Sibley. Part One: Saturday 25th December at 7pm on BBC Radio Two, and Part Two Sunday 26th December at 7pm. More info Click Here. 25.12.10

 

Crisis At Christmas - Crisis, the national charity for single homeless people, would love to hear from any magicians who would be able to entertain over Christmas at their day centres between now and 29th December in Finsbury Park, Bermondsey, Stratford, Hammersmith, Ealing, Deptford, Royal Docks, Ladbroke Grove and other locations. Contact Russell Haynes, Crisis Entertainments Coordinator (Christmas Team) email: russell.haynes@crisis.org.uk Telephone: 020 7036 2810 Mobile: Mob: 07581 154 841. 25.12.10

 

Merlins of Wakefield will mail out have their new January 2011 'Preview' shortly: "With over 60 great effects, there's bound to be something for everyone. The best thing is it's free! Just call 01924 339933 and we'll send you one in the post, or email merlins@btconnect.com, and receive a PDF copy. Due to huge demand, we are also continuing our 'Friday Special Offer' promotion throughout 2011. Every week we offer one effect at a very special price, so keep checking the website for the 'Friday Special'. Merlins wish all customers and friends a very Merry Christmas." www.merlinswakefield.com. 25.12.10

 

Renegade Films are pleased to offer MagicWeek readers a special Christmas treat. You can own a new factory-sealed copy of Paul Squires' amusing 'Ever So Sleightly' film - an entertaining documentary looking at magic and featuring a host of stars giving advice and insights into what makes them magically tick - including Paul Zenon, Joe Pasquale, Men in Coats, Wayne Dobson and many more, at a specially reduced price. MagicWeek reviewed the disc back in 2006, Click Here. The DVD includes many extras including unseen clips and film-maker's commentary. Renegade Films have ten copies up for grabs and at just £5.00 each (with free postage!). Simply email eversosleightly@yahoo.co.uk with 'MagicWeek offer' in the email subject heading and they will send you an email with full ordering details. 25.12.10

 

Magician Zane of www.zanesmagicshop.com has another string to his bow, "performing cool magic whilst singing songs from 'The Rat Pack' era" as Joe Swing 'The Singer with the Magic Touch' see YouTube. Zane is now taking bookings for 2011 and would be interested in performing at magic conventions or magic society dinners. Visit www.joeswing.co.uk for more info. 25.12.10

 

The Care & Share Balloon Fun Days run by Graham Lee and now being sponsored by Qualatex Balloons, and kick off in 2011 with a “New Year Party Day” at Bishops Stortford on Wednesday 19th January. The day runs from 10am - 5pm, Click Here for details. There will be three mystery lecturers covering, Valentine Balloons, Golden Nuggets and Line Work, "A fantastic day is lined up with an early bird discount available until the 4th January." Numbers are limited so you are advised to book as early as possible: www.qualatexballoons.co.uk. 25.12.10

 

The Carny Cabaret Show. The Grand Launch of 'The Carny Cabaret Show' in London took place on the 25th November at Madame JoJo's. It was a great success! "Crazy extrovert Chris Cross presents a show that’s twisted, freaky, and off the hook – Carny Cabaret is a show for the strong stomach and the thirsty liver!" Deni Kirkova, Metro. Dates for 2011 are as follows: Wednesday 9th March, Wednesday 13th April, Wednesday 11th May, Wednesday 8th June and tickets will shortly be available from www.carnycabaret.com. To read the SonicShocks review Click Here. 25.12.10

 

Messing with Magic. Five Magicians take to the Stage on Saturday 5th February! Hosted by young magician Ryan Adams. Performers include Ryan Adams, Jamie Docherty, Graham Sargeant, Barry Smith and Steve Cheeseman (Comedy Magic). The Masque Theatre, Latimer Arts College, Kettering, Northamptonshire on Saturday 5th February 2011 at 7pm. Tickets U16 £5, Adults £7, Family Ticket (2+2) £20. Contact: 01536 723039 or email ryoliverla@yahoo.co.uk. 25.12.10

 

Lost magic friend. Malcolm French would like to make contact with lost magician friend Trevor Outhwaite, who lived in Nottingham. If you can help put Malcolm back in touch please email Malcolm directly: malcolm.french3@ntlworld.com. 25.12.10

 

One Day Paranormal Workshop. News from Jonathan Royle: "Paul Voodini - Master of Séance and Paranormal Entertainment has teamed up with Psychological Illusionist Jonathan Royle for a one time special full day workshop. During the day you will learn everything about Tarot - Palmistry & Astrology Readings, how to duplicate the feats of clairvoyants and how to earn big money from Séances and Ghost Hunts using Mentalism. Plus you'll master the art of Past Life Regression. Spaces are Limited" More information: myspace.com/magicalguru. 25.12.10

 

"Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee climb the beanstalk" Click Here, Tickets: Click Here • "Keith Barry - Mentalist, Magician, Hypnotist" Click Here • "The Illusionist. Conjuring a Magical Relationship" Click Here • "To David Alexander, and his endlessly fascinating life" Click Here • "Dynamo rocks Ian Brown with his magic - Dynamo TV Episode 8" Click Here • Happy Christmas! See you next week, Duncan. 25.12.10

 

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