Number 644 - 27th October 2012

 

Derren Brown - "how I convinced one man the world had ended." The TV illusionist explains how creating a zombie apocalypse brought his subject back to life... Read the full story in Radio Times, Click Here. Apocalypse Part One was shown on Friday evening, and is being repeated throughout the week, Part Two airs at 9pm this Friday. See TV Magic. Derren is preparing an all-new live theatre show for 2013. Visit www.derrenbrown.co.uk for current dates (with more to be added). 27.10.12

 

International Magic Convention & Festival of Magic. Talent coordinator for the International Magic Convention and Festival, Noel Britten, writes, "In addition to all the events and outstanding talent in the line up of our Convention and Festival that have been announced over the last weeks, add over 30 dealers from 15 different countries (many of whom only appear at this UK Convention), 12 competitors from 9 different countries vying for the title of International Close Up Magician of the Year, extra walk around magic alongside Michael Vincent's' parlour-type pre Gala Show performances and an additional last minute surprise guest appearance. If you booked for all the Festival and Convention events (and many have!) you will have signed up for over fifty fantastic hours of magic over the seven days with 27 lectures, 13 individual shows, the presentation of the David Berglas Award, the Close Up Competition and much more - which works out at just over £4 an hour - surely the best magic value in the UK this year for such a range of outstanding international talent with true legends of magic and some of the best up and coming and new-to-UK talent around." And there's still just time to climb aboard! Full registration details at www.internationalmagic.com. 27.10.12

 

Z-Ray Deck and Day of the Dead Party! Paul Zenon has collaborated with cult underground comic book artist Vince Ray, to produce the Z-Ray Deck. Manufactured by the USPCC under the Bicycle brand, the court cards, aces, jokers, box and backs have original artwork. A blank-facer is included with the deck that has a hidden card revelation on the back, and there's also a prediction in the bar code on the case, and a subtle one-way back design. The deck will be available, both retail and wholesale, from www.paulzenon.com and www.bigblindmedia.com late November. The launch party takes place in Brighton on Saturday, 3rd November, at live music venue The Prince Albert, Trafalgar Street, Brighton BN1 4ED (Map) with a Day of the Dead theme. Advance decks will be available (www.wegottickets.com) and they'll be shooting a short viral-type promo video on the night. If anyone is interested in being involved by dressing up appropriately (Voodoo Vegas Latino Schlock Horror!) and/or doing an odd close-up bit using the deck, Paul would love to hear from you, either on Facebook or via email: admin 'at' paulzenon.com. 27.10.12

 

Piff the Magic Dragon will be heading off on tour with Mumford & Sons at the end of November. Piff performed a couple of shows with them over the summer and they asked me to be on their new album cover Babel, which was released a couple of weeks ago and went straight to number one, becoming the biggest selling release of the year so far. The band is doing a tour of two halves, and Piff the Magic Dragon will be in the first half from 21st-27th November, see www.nme.com. "Piff the Magic Dragon joins as support on Part One of UK tour" Click Here. Piff is currently on his first headline tour. For remaining dates Click Here. "Review: Piff the Magic Dragon- Jurassic Bark" Click Here. 27.10.12

 

Magic Night, Madame JoJo's - London. 16th November. "The November trick fix where things are not as they seem, with objects that move faster than the eye can track, sightless riddles, a quick change dancer and the creation of money from no-where! Illusions abound this Magic Night with Harrison Richards who will use your eyes to solve a riddle using a Rubik Cube whilst Michael Vadini (photo) produces money in such abundance he makes water utility companies look incompetent. Meanwhile Jayde Adams clowns into quick changes, AJ juggles knives in dangerous places and the Ninja is back with his flying and slicing cards – you can run but you can’t hide from the Ninja cards. All proceedings ably compered by the very Tommy Cooperesque Christian Lee." Doors open 7pm show starts at 7.45pm. Tickets £12 or £25 with food. All tickets include entry to The Good Foot club night after. Tickets: www.ticketweb.co.uk www.lastminute.com or Ticket Web on 08444 77 1000. Madame JoJo’s, 8-10 Brewer Street, London W1F 0SE (Map) 020 734 3040. For details visit: www.magicnight.co.uk. 27.10.12

 

Julian James and Michael Vincent are back for another season of 'Late Night Magic' at the Jermyn Street Theatre, for Richard Leigh's 'False Impressions'. Join Julian and Michael on the 2nd, 16th and 23rd of November for a brand new show of contemporary mind reading and classic sleight of hand magic not to be missed! See www.falseimpressions.co.uk/latenightmagic for details. 27.10.12

 

The Young Magicians Club, part of the youth initiative of The Magic Circle, held their annual competitions during J-Day at The Magic Circle Headquarters on Sunday 21st October. Six competitors battled in each competition. The Mark Leveridge Cup for Close-up Magic was awarded to Ollie Ward with Charlie Adorian in second place and Roman Armstrong in third. The Home Counties Shield for Stage Magic was won by Elizabeth Rogan with Ollie Ward second and William Tibballs third. William also won the Pete McCahon Prize for originality and the Kaymar Komedy Kup. The cup for Member of the Year was awarded to Jack Taperell. All awards were presented by President Jack Delvin. Nicholas Einhorn started the day with a lecture and in the afternoon John Archer was the subject of a motivating interview conducted by Brian Sibley for these young future stars. A Gala Show featuring Steve Price, Dave Andrews, John Archer and Amethyst and compered by David Weeks rounded off the successful day. Reported by Kevin Doig, Chairman of The Young Magicians Club. Photographs by Mandy Davis. (L to R: President Jack Delvin with Ollie Ward, Elizabeth Rogan and Jack Taperell). 27.10.12

 

Wayne Dobson & Friends. Wayne Dobson’s previous book, WD40, was a huge international sell out success, and now Wayne is back with an even bigger book full of stories, articles and routines from Wayne and a star studded array of his magic friends. In the 200 large size pages, you will find 31 articles and effects contributed by 21 different performers featuring close up magic, mentalism and stage magic. The contributors are: Andy Nyman, Bill Abbott, Charlie Frye, Danny Buckler, David Regal, David Stone, David Williamson, Dirk Losander, Eugene Burger, Gregory Wilson, Hans Klok, Jeff McBride, Joe Pasquale, John Archer, Joshua Jay, Ken Brooke, Kevin James, Kozmo, Mark Mason, Max Maven, Patrick Page and of course, Wayne himself. Visit www.waynedobson.co.uk for more info and to order. 27.10.12

 

Creepy, Spooky and Mental that's what you can expect on Tuesday 30th October at the Top Secret Comedy Club in Covent Garden. "We've got a cabaret, late night Houdini séance, some creepy things happening and a ghost walk from 6.15pm for the early birds." For more info and tickets visit www.topsecretcomedyclub.co.uk. 27.10.12

 

'Experience: The Magic of Jon Allen' was universally acclaimed when it was first released. After being out of print for two years, it is once again available to buy, this time in softback. Produced by Vanishing Inc., the book is full of finely-honed routines, practical advice and thought-provoking essays from one of the UK's most experienced and respected close-up magicians. Priced at £22.50, email jallen@close-upmagician.com for purchasing details. 27.10.12

 

Mark Shortland: ‘Live in 3D’ at the Picturedrome, Northampton. On Sunday 25th November, comedy magician Mark Shortland, will be performing his brand new show in his hometown, Northampton. Mark has travelled the world with his unique blend of comedy and magic. A regular performer on luxury cruise ships and for private and corporate events; Mark has just returned from an 8 day, 21-show booking at the Magic Castle, in Hollywood and is now ready to perform his brand new show, ‘Live in 3D’ back home. When asked why he is performing his new show in the town, Mark said, “If I can survive Northampton, I can survive anywhere!” If you fancy an afternoon of mystery, mind reading and pure fun, tickets to Mark’s show are available via www.markshortland.com priced from £8.50 for adults and £6.00 for children, you are sure to have a magical afternoon. 27.10.12

 

Celebrating 350 years of Punch & Judy. "Magicians who share a love of Punch & Judy will find this new DVD a wonderful record of many contemporary shows. Mainly filmed at the 2012 Covent Garden May Fayre in London, it includes interviews and performances." More information via www.punchandjudy.com. 27.10.12

 

Fergus Roy and Betty Davenport: The Goodliffe Memorial Lecture. Paul Cadley writes: On Tuesday 30th October the British Magical Society is proud to present The Goodliffe Memorial Lecture. For over the last thirty years the British Magical Society has presented a special lecture in memory of Charles Goodliffe Neale (1912 – December 26, 1980). Three times BMS President, Goodliffe created Abracadabra the weekly magic magazine. The first issue was published on 2 February 1946; the last issue was published on the 28th of March 2009; a total of 3,296 issues. Abra was to continue for many years after Goodliffe’s passing, and this was very much thanks to our two guest lecturers this evening: Fergus Roy and Betty Davenport will present a special lecture “The Davenport Story”, an illustrated story of a magical institution older even than the BMS itself. This promises to be an intriguing evening as our speakers reveal aspects of the development of Davenports, at 114 years the oldest of magical dealers. Not a dealer dem., but an illustrated journey through this famous family’s history featuring the past, present and future, with details of Davenports Magic Kingdom, an exhibition of the Davenport Collection of illusions and magical ephemera, due to open in Norfolk next year. The date is Tuesday 30th October at 7.30pm, at Selly Oak Ex Serviceman’s Club, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 7DL (Map). Non-members are invited to attend for a modest £5 fee. See www.britishmagicalsociety.co.uk for details. Paul Cadley. 27.10.12

 

Psycrets - The British Society of Mystery Entertainers are proud to announce the publication of Liber Mentis, a unique collection of essays, effects and routines published in celebration of the fifth anniversary of Psycrets: The British Society of Mystery Entertainers, 2007-2012. With over 380 pages, the book features 45 contributions on mentalism, bizarre magick and psychic readings, as well as key insights on the business of mystery entertainment. Contributors include David Berglas, Banachek, Docc Hilford, Scott Grossberg, Shelia Lyon, Dr Todd Landman, Roni Shachnaey and many more. The foreword is by David Berglas. Author Steve Drury. Further information via www.psycrets.org.uk. 27.10.12

 

The Scottish Conjurers Association's Mega Magic Auction takes place on Sunday 4th November at the Premier Inn, 80 Ballater Street, Glasgow G5 0TW (Map). Doors open 12 noon and the auction begins 1pm. Entrance fee £3.00. Free car parking. Sellers welcome, 10% commission. For details contact the Secretary, Brendan Kirk via www.scamagic.org. 27.10.12

 

Mark Leveridge Magic Dealer Night, Manchester. Just a few days left to get free entry to the Mark Leveridge Magic Dealer Night which is taking place at the Britannia Airport Hotel, Northenden, Manchester on Sunday 4th November at 7pm. Although there is a small charge for entry, if you register in advance you receive a Credit Voucher to spend on the evening worth the price of the entry, thus making getting in a no-cost, no-brainer decision! As well as getting a 10% discount on purchases plus the chance to win prizes, there will be a mini lecture featuring three new routines not published before, a dealer dem, plus plenty of time to browse and ask for dems of things that particularly interest you. So, make my long journey up from Exeter to Manchester worthwhile and make the effort to come along, grab a drink from the hotel bar and settle in for a fun, relaxed evening of magic. Online registration can be found at www.markleveridge.co.uk/DealerNights.php. 27.10.12

 

The Nine of Diamonds. Adrian Harris writes: "The Nine of Diamonds is the title of a new book by Neil Stirton and Mark Beecham featuring some brilliant card magic. Last week, Perth Magic Circle members were treated to a demonstration of many of the effects described in this outstanding book. Neil, Mark and Luke Eaton all contributed to what turned out to be an evening of really entertaining and funky card magic, although Neil also performed a three part mental coin routine by another contributor, Eireann Leverett. The contributors are all based in (or around) Edinburgh, and for the past six years have met in a local bar on a weekly basis to discuss, show and evolve new sleights and routines and the book is the result of these sessions. The book has already received glowing reviews both here and in the U.S.A. and rightly so. To find out more about it, go to www.nineofdiamonds.co.uk - you will not be disappointed! Perth Magic Circle look forward to having the boys back whenever their second book is published! L to R, Luke Eaton, Derek McInnes, Mark Beecham, Perth M.C. President Angus McGregor and Neil Stirton. 27.10.12

 

David Meade – Make Believe. Halloween night will see the launch on BBC Northern Ireland's ‘David Meade – Make Believe' - an innovative series that follows mentalist Meade in what promises to be a dynamic and fresh format. Each week, David transports his audience to a secret location where his task is to make them believe that he can do the extraordinary. Viewers will see him take ordinary people on an often moving, sometimes controversial, and always astonishing journey investigating themes of thought control, the unexplained, sales, and swindles. Now a household name in his native Ireland, Meade’s shows have been breaking the records after four years on BBC One in Northern Ireland. "This has been the most challenging show to plan – it’s all live, in front of a studio audience with no room to hide. I can honestly say, I don’t think there’s ever been a show quite like this, and I hope the audience enjoy it and come along for the ride” For further information and to keep up to date with exclusive previews visit www.facebook.com/davidmeadelive. The show airs on BBC1 in Northern Ireland on Wednesday October 31st at 10.35pm and for thereafter for 6 weeks. UK Sky viewers can get watch the show on their Sky boxes Channel 953/974, and on Virgin 863. It will also be available on iPlayer. 27.10.12

 

Bondini doves to make Bollywood debut: "Yamla Pagla Deewana II is being filmed in Leicester at the moment and is due to be screened next year. The production manager contacted Bondini looking for doves to feature in scenes for the film. The Bondini doves are highly trained but they needed to perform a particular move for which Doctor Bondini only had days to train them for! On the day, the doves performed impeccably, it was just one of the stars of the film that was scared of them. Doctor Bondini enjoyed his day on the film set and was very well looked after by the crew. The Indian feast for lunch was a particular treat!" "'Yamla Pagla Deewana 2' to be filmed at Leicester University" Click Here. 27.10.12

 

The Order of the Magi (Manchester) held their annual Stage Competition last week with Alan “Snaggers” Russell (right, with President Joe Abrahams) taking the main prize and Brian Berry runner up. The Ralph Mathews comedy cup went to secretary Mike Sharples. It was an interesting and well attended night with wide and varied styles of magic on offer. The next two meetings are Chris Stickland on 13th November and Steve Evans on the 27th. Both events promise to be very informative evenings from well established entertainers who both have a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer. Directions on www.orderofthemagi.org.uk door charge for non members. Geoffrey Newton PRO. 27.10.12

 

Ravi Mayar's 'Hit & Run' 2 disc DVD set featuring 15 tricks (no cards!) and produced by Chris Dugdale is now available from www.mayarmagic.com. 27.10.12

 

IBM / Magi news. Geoffrey Newton PRO reports: New IBM British Ring President John ‘Sly’ Smith (left) has wasted no time in making headway to promote the society. The first engagement was to visit his local club The Order of The Magi in Manchester on 23rd October where he has been a member for over 50 years and also holds a life membership (seen here with Magi President Joe Abrahams). The occasion happened to be when Richard Cadell was presenting a talk on his magical life, and of course Sooty. This proved to be a fascinating evening with someone so well established in showbusiness. Since purchasing the rights to Sooty he has made a 26 episode series for CITV. This is currently the second highest viewing figure for young children's’ programmes. A further 26 editions are scheduled for next year. There were a number of Magi/British Ring members in attendance including Peter Moran (who worked with Richard over the 2 years when Granada TV produced the Sooty show), Jack Griggs (former Budget Editor), Alan ‘Snaggers’ Russell (appears regularly on the convention Special Venue Shows), Brian Berry (regular dealer at the conventions) and new member Dave Magee (who has joined the IBM clowns). It is hoped Sooty’s Magic Show will be coming to the 2013 Buxton convention (4th – 8th September). Photo Editor: Peter Moran. 27.10.12

 

Take Me Out. New from Twins FX: "The Twins FX are creating special effects and props for the new series of ITV’s hit Saturday night television show 'Take Me Out', the award winning dating show hosted by Paddy McGuinness. The object of the show is for a single man to gain a date with one of thirty single women. 'It's been Great to work on such a fun show, there is a great buzz in the studio' commented Gary. The new series is currently airing." www.ITV.com/takemeout www.thetwinsfx.com. 27.10.12

 

JezO to appear in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Harlow Playhouse. "JezO will be treading the boards playing Silly Billy from 7th December until 6th January alongside Pui from CBeebies. Pantomime is a new venture for JezO and he is very much looking forward to it. Audiences can expect JezO’s usual brand of humour and physical comedy plus a lot more besides; there’ll be thrills and spills while he and the rest of the gang try to rescue Daisy the cow from the giant." For more information visit www.jezo.co.uk or for tickets visit www.playhouseharlow.com, or call the box office on 01279 431945. 27.10.12

 

Joe Swing otherwise known as Zane (owner of Zane's Magic Shop) has been rebooked this year to sing at The Rat Pack Theme Nights at The Bridgewood Manor Resort & Hotel in Chatham, Kent. Joe Swing is booked on 15th, 22nd and 31st December. If you would like to go along and watch Joe Swing in action, contact the hotel for details and to book: "It is a great night out during the Festive period and guests enjoy a wonderful three course meal followed by Joe Swing singing live Rat Pack and Swing hits for an hour, finishing off with the resident DJ playing music for dancing into the wee hours. Tickets are limited now as this is a popular event!" To book Joe Swing for your event visit www.joeswing.co.uk. 27.10.12

 

2 Minds Combined. Ian Hamilton writes: "Just a few weeks ago 2 Minds Combined were featured performers in the IBM convention Great Yarmouth and now they are pleased to announce their first theatre show for the public. At the Thameside Theatre, Grays on November 16th at 8pm. Any magicians who would like to support the show can purchase tickets at a discount rate by quoting the code "magic2012" (phone bookings only) and receive £2 off per ticket purchased making the ticket price just £10 each. 2 Minds Combined have created a new concept in mentalism, 'Visual Mindreading' by taking highly visual magic illusions and combining them with a mindreading twist to create an entertaining and enjoyable experience. '2 Minds Combined' fuse magic, mindreading, psychic speed painting and shadowgraphy to add a little touch of mystery to any event. Tickets from the box office 0845 300 5264 or www.2minds.co.uk." 27.10.12

 

"One Direction to work with magician pal Dynamo on 2013 world tour?" Click Here • "Dynamo interview: Magician talks tricks and his nan as series 2 launches on DVD" Click Here • "New York gets first museum on famed magician Harry Houdini" Click Here • "Magician Dynamo 'will be ace parent'" Click Here • "Flint conjurors: Who says you can't teach a young magician old tricks?" Click Here • "Illusionist Derren Brown on how he destroyed the planet for one unsuspecting man in controversial new TV show" Click Here • "Watch Out Kanye West! Kim Kardashian Fancies Dynamo The Magician! The British magician claims Kimmy asked if he was married..." Click Here • "That One Time Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Punked Houdini With Dinosaurs" Click Here • "Govt must protect the art of magic, says Jadugar Anand" Click Here • "Illusionist astounds students" Click Here • "Burton's mom gets restraining order" Click Here • The Blackpool Magicians Club President's Dinner is reported by Elizabeth Warlock this week, Click Here • Steve Short's Dennis & Jean Collins Memorial Lecture at The Pentacle Club is reviewed by Alan Maskell, Click Here • The Magicians of Facebook UK mini convention is reviewed by Alex Fisher, Click Here • "Magician totally 'loses his head' from the Halloween excitement" Click Here • "On The Road: Meeting Houdini" Click Here • "Magician Challenges Minds at Stafford Library" Click Here • That's all for this week, see you next week, your news and reviews always welcomed, Duncan. 27.10.12

 

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