Number 624 - 9th June 2012

 

Juan Tamariz and Jeff McBride are the first two headliners to be announced who will be appearing at The International Magic Convention at The Mermaid Theatre in central London later this year. The 41st Convention (known affectionately as 'Ron’s Day' after its founder Ron MacMillan) will run from the 16th to the 18th of November, and will continue its long-standing reputation for presenting some of the best known names in magic, along with underground stars and emerging new talent.

 

Juan Tamariz will be lecturing and performing within the Convention and will also be presenting his One Man Show on the Saturday Night, as an extra event. This show will be held at The Bridewell Theatre and continues the Convention’s desire to showcase some of the world’s greatest performers, in a solo show environment. We know that the audience this year will experience the same sort of theatrical and memorable event as those who have attended Rene Lavand and Max Maven’s shows in previous years. Tickets to this show will be sold separately to the main Convention and will act as an alternative to the Gala Show on the Saturday (but don’t worry if you want to see the Gala Show it will be repeated as always on the Sunday night too - Martin MacMillan, who runs the Convention, has always been keen that Conventioneers get the chance to see all the events of the weekend and not have to make choices between one event over another).

Jeff McBride, another universally recognised figure in the world of magic, will also be appearing over the weekend not only as a lecturer but with some of his modern day classics in the Gala Show. More headline names will be announced over the next few weeks, together with full details of the Festival of Magic (November 12th – 16th).

The Festival runs at the Bridewell Theatre in the week leading up to the Convention, with each day being themed around a particular aspect of magic allowing real in-depth analysis of themes, performance and technique. The Festival ran for the first time last year and was an unqualified success in allowing magicians to spend more time with some of the stars of the Convention, on more ‘niche’ elements than the general Convention allows. “Last year's Convention celebrated the 40th annual Convention and we pulled out all the stops, with people saying it was one of our best ever. We set the bar high and look forward to reaching it again this year.” Noel Britten, Convention Event Coordinator. www.internationalmagic.com.
9.6.12

 

Noel Britten, Lords of Strut, Richard McDougall, Mat Ricardo... Plus, a very special interview guest from the golden age of variety and more rare archive variety footage. It can only Mat Ricardo's London Varieties, at Bethnal Green Working Men's Club on June 14th, doors 7pm, show 8pm, Tickets £10 www.wegottickets.com More info: matricardo.blogspot.co.uk. "Guaranteed entertainment!" ThisIsCabaret.com. "Ehilarating! You have to go!" ToMaxTalks.com. "East London variety show returns Jun 14" Click Here. 9.6.12

 

Young Magician Competition. A new competition for UK young magicians has been announced by Rotary International - it will run alongside their national competitions for young artists, chefs, musicians etc., as part of their New Generations initiative promoted through schools. For the first year it will be held just in Lancashire and Cumbria as a pilot, but should expand to a regional and national competition next year. The project is the brainchild of Rotarian Sue Hind and magician Shaun McCree and is open to young magicians aged between 11-17 regardless of any magic club membership - there are two age groups and both close-up and stage performances are eligible. Entry will be via a 3-5 minute DVD which should be sponsored by their local Rotary club - Rotarians will begin promoting the competition shortly in their own local schools, scouts and so on - look out for the poster! Prizes have been kindly sponsored by Kaymar Magic and Magicseen magazine, and interested young magicians can contact Sue Hind at s1ueh@aol.com or Shaun McCree at shaun@mccree.co.uk for further information, or to download a copy of the rules Click Here. 9.6.12

 

Richard Leigh's Festival of Magic, Barons Court Theatre, London, 19th July - 25th August 2012. To celebrate 10 years of producing magic and illusion shows in London, Richard Leigh is staging a 'Festival of Magic' which will run for six weeks at The Barons Court Theatre. See What's On for show details and dates. 9.6.12

 

Is your magic act worth £1,000? The IBM British Ring are looking for entrants for the British Ring Shield (Stage) and Zina Bennett Trophy (Close Up) competitions in their forthcoming convention to be held in Great Yarmouth (26th - 30th September). The cash prizes in both competitions are first £1,000, second £500 and third £250 together with certificates. Other prizes that may be also awarded include 'The Tom Harris Cup' for Comedy, 'The Dittia Shield' for manipulation and the 'Conventioneers Trophy' for originality in the stage competition, and in the close-up the 'Rovi Trophy' for skill with playing cards. Conditions of entry are on www.magicconvention.co.uk where you can also find details of artistes appearing and registration details for the convention. Geoffrey Newton PRO. 9.6.12

 

"Awards week in New York and onstage magic" Congratulations to Paul Kieve, joint Drama Desk Award winner and the first illusionist to receive this award in its 57 year history. "...talking of Kieve and Ghost, I finally caught up with the Broadway edition of this London import here earlier last night, and his contribution is literally amazing. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen magic effects used to such thrilling theatrical effect in the theatre before; or to actually serve a story as they do here, instead of being an end in itself." To read the full story Click Here. 9.6.12

 

Wayne Dobson's Exchange, the trick that they were all talking about at the Blackpool Convention back in February is now available for pre-order. "One the simplest and funniest routines I have ever done, Wayne Dobson is a genius." Joe Pasquale. "Here is yet another great routine from Wayne. I hope this one doesn't get noticed. I want to keep it for myself. This is great!" Jeff Hobson. "'Wayne'S EXchange' has it all! Drama, comedy, mystery, surprise and yes sex!" Jeff McBride. Find out more and watch the video at www.waynedobson.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

Dude that’s Cool Magic: "Dude That’s Cool Magic, is one of the United Kingdom and Ireland's leading suppliers of Magic Tricks and equipment and has been trading for over 7 years. Our online Magic Shop, has a wide range of DVDs Tricks and Props suitable for all ages and skill levels. So, if you’re an amateur magician looking to perform to friends and family or a professional performer who’s hunting for the next big illusion, www.dudethatscoolmagic.co.uk is certainly the place to start looking. Contact us on 01635 876565 or email sales@dudethatscoolmagic.co.uk". 9.6.12

 

Steve Evans BMS Lecture. Paul Cadley, President, British Magical Society writes: Steve Evans the one and only Magicbloke (who also does balloons) will be presenting his “Diamond Jubilee lecture” at the BMS Birmingham on Tuesday 12th June 2012. Steve is ‘one of us’, a BMS member, an all round entertainer much in demand as compere, lecturer and performer. Steve has a wild sense of humour and is bound to produce something unusual, be there to find out what. 7.30pm Selly Oak Ex Serviceman’s Club, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 7DL (Map). See www.britishmagicalsociety.co.uk for details. 9.6.12

 

Michael Vincent Lecture: "Cotswold Magical Society is delighted to announce that we are to have a lecture from the fabulous Michael Vincent on Wednesday July 4, - 7.30 for 8pm. Non-members are invited to attend for a modest fee of £5. Venue: The Hucclecote, Community Centre, Hucclecote Road, Gloucester GL3 3RT (Map) www.cotswoldmagic.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

Three from Alakazam... Random, Captiv3 and Wayne's Exchange are now available for pre-order from Alakazam: "Peter Nardi’s Random feels totally organic and shows you can truly control apparent random actions. Your spectator makes numerous 'random' choices (with a deck of cards) yet you clearly and unbelievably predict their actions every step of the way." Captiv 3: "Imagine taking the cap from one bottle and penetrating it through another sealed bottle, While its in your spectators hand. They see the cap sink to the bottom of the sealed bottle." Wayne Dobson's Exchange: "Once in a while an effect comes alone with a presentation so funny in its own right that all you have to do it perform it and you’re guaranteed laughs..." For more info and to pre-order visit: www.alakazam.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

PaulHarrisPresents.co.uk - Free Trick! Mark Traversoni writes: Paul Harris Presents.co.uk are offering a free trick to anyone signing up for a new account (no purchase necessary). The effect is my Bill in Egg method which I use in all my cabaret or close-up shows. This is an easy to do method and the bill is actually in the egg at the end of your routine. To obtain a free copy go to www.paulharrispresents.co.uk and click on new account at the top of page, enter your details and access to the trick will be emailed to you. 9.6.12

 

Blackpool Magicians Club have booked Franklin, the International Mindreader with his new lecture "Beyond The Veil" for Tuesday 12th June (replacing Roger Curzon). The lecture commences at 8pm in the Blackpool Magicians Theatre Club. The lecture reveals Franklin's closely guarded secret mentalism techniques. Members and associates only. www.blackpoolmagic.com. 9.6.12

 

Mark Elsdon's Equivoque Workshop, Saturday June 16th in central London. There is just one place still available for this intensive day of expert tuition. For testimonials, full details of the day's agenda and booking, visit: elsdon.blogspot.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

Paul Voodini live in York! On Saturday 16th June, Paul Voodini will be performing an intimate show in York for just 25 guests. Expect a unique combination of mind-reading, the paranormal, and mentalism! Tickets are priced at just £9 with discounts being available for multiple purchases. Full details and tickets can be obtained from www.readerofminds.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

Chris Hare Lecture - London Society of Magicians. London Society of Magicians would like to invite you to Chris Hare's Live Lecture! The Lecture will be held on Tuesday 26th June at 7pm at Davenports Magic Studio, 7 Charing Cross Underground Arcade, The Strand, London WC2N 4HZ (Map) Lecture is free for members. Visitors are very welcome, there is a small fee of £10 payable on the night. Chris Hare is the creator of Birthday Detector and the author of Sensational Memory and has recently released two new effects "Where in the World?" and "Where Next?" He presents an entertaining and informative lecture of approximately 2 hours (plus) in duration. The powerful mental effects in the lecture can be performed using everyday items and require 'know-how' as opposed to any sort of physical manipulation skill. During the lecture he also teaches people how to increase their memory more than perhaps they could ever possibly imagine! Visit www.lsmmagic.magicandweb.com or email lsmmagic@hotmail.co.uk for further information. Mark Saltissi. 9.6.12

 

Etienne Pradier lectures at The Surrey Society of Magicians on June 14th. "Born in France, Etienne became fascinated by magic at an early age and rapidly made a name for himself as a truly gifted close-up magician that was assured to be 'going somewhere.' And he did … twice! He moved to England and achieved international recognition as one of the world’s finest close-up table magicians. After only 3 years as a member of the elite Magic Circle, he was invited to take membership of The Inner Magic Circle, with Gold Star, in recognition of his excellence as a professional magician. Uniquely skilled, creative, charismatic and immensely entertaining, Etienne Pradier is now one of the UK’s most successful London based magicians." Members are free and visiting magicians are welcome for a £10 entrance fee, the lecture takes place in Bookham, Surrey at 8pm for full details email Adam Mosley addmoses@blueyonder.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

The Leamington Day of Magic on Wednesday 20th June is now just over a week away. Lectures on the day include Pete Wardell, Richard Pinner and David Tomkins, and there is a good range of dealers. Entrance is only £21 for the full day including, breakfast lunch and a BBQ weather permitting. You can order your tickets on-line and find full details at www.lawms.wordpress.com/day-of-magic. Mark Traversoni. 9.6.12

 

Steve Gore is presenting his popular lecture “Ramblings from a suspender… of disbelief” for the Chester Guild of Magicians on Monday 11th June at 8pm. His lecture which received great reviews at the Modern Mystic League, Blackpool Magician Club and British Magical Society includes lots of his original effects, including ‘Trick Photography’, which MagicWeek called “Close up Trick of the Year in 2010” YouTube. It’s not all close up though, there are effects for stage, parlour and children's entertainers too, so there really is something for everyone. Everyone who attends will receive a free copy of his PDF lecture notes. Visiting magicians welcome; £10 door charge. The Bull & Stirrup (Upstairs), 8 Upper Northgate Street, Chester CH1 4EE (Map) www.stevegore.co.uk www.makebelievemagic.co.uk. 9.6.12

 

The Home Counties Magical Society: "Marc Oberon, James Prince, Paul Gordon and Chris Congreave, are just a few of the name lecturing this year at The Home Counties Magic Society based in Reading, Berkshire. Anyone interested in joining please visit our website www.hcms.org.uk" Andrew Lewis. 9.6.12

 

Owen Lean has been entertaining the stars of the literary world all week at The Hay Festival. Tonight (Saturday) he'll be finishing his time there performing at the festival's 25th Birthday Party at Clyro Court alongside Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank. 9.6.12

 

It's Magic! A fun-filled magic show for all the family, staged by the Young Magicians of Mann. 7pm - 8.15pm on Friday 15th June. All tickets £4 from Laxey Chemist, New Road, Laxey. Venue: The Institute, New Road, Laxey, Isle of Man IM4 7BD. www.laxeywmi.org. Organised by the Young Magicians of Mann. 9.6.12

 

UKC Magic Society Wins First Award. Megan Knowles-Bacon writes: The University of Kent Canterbury’s Magic Society recently won ‘Best New Society’ in the Kent Union awards. The society has only been running since September, but already has quite a name for itself around the university. Their achievements this year which helped them win the award include producing their own very successful stage show (featuring several members’ debut performances), securing a grant enabling them to subsidise a trip to The Magic Circle, and raising over £180 for Kent Air Ambulance Trust (KAAT). With a bigger committee ready to work hard, and plans for the next show already underway, next year promises to be even more successful. Photo (L to R) May Watson, Emma Durrant, Megan Knowles-Bacon (VP), Kalysha Howard (Secretary), Simon Smith (President), Matt Medland, Anthony Dixon and Lee Palmer. 9.6.12

 

Magic! A family magic show to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Young Magicians of Mann. 7pm on Friday 14th September. Tickets from £14, concessions £8. Tickets from the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal in Douglas, www.villagaiety.com or tel. 01624 600555. Venue: Gaiety Theatre, Harris Promenade, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2XP www.villagaiety.com/eventinfo. Organised by the Young Magicians of Mann. 9.6.12

 

Looking for a magic lecturer? Visit the MagicWeek Lecturers page. 9.6.12

 

Best of Peter Duffie Volume 4 is reviewed by Al Smith this week, Click Here • "Showbiz: Grandma and I" Click Here • "Rule-breaking magicians Barry and Stuart head to Glee" Click Here • "Magician Arrested in Series of Brooklyn Bank Robberies" Click Here • "Seeing is believing" Click Here • "7 Things You Didn’t Know About David Copperfield, Courtesy of Reddit" Click Here • "Pete’s magic touch is sure to pull in crowds" Click Here • "Star turnout for Murray Sawchuck at Tropicana dazzles like his magic" Click Here • "Jonathan Creek is back this Christmas – for a one-off episode" Click Here • "Phil Lord and Chris Miller Slated to Adapt 'Carter Beats the Devil' Now" Click Here • "I want to see Indian rope trick" Click Here • "Try The McGurk Effect! - Horizon: Is Seeing Believing?" Click Here • From June 1st: "15-Year-Old Buried Alive By His Awesome Parents" Click Here • Your UK magic news is always welcome. Please let us have it by Thursday to guarantee inclusion. Absolute final deadline for all submissions: 12 noon Friday. See you next week, Duncan. 9.6.12

 

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