Number 711 - 8th February 2014

James Freedman is The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year 2014. On Monday evening The Magic Circle staged the finals of its annual competition to find the Close-Up Magician of the Year. Proving that "it ain't what you do but the way that you do it", James Freedman performed a slick version of Al Leech's classic 'Hot Card Trick' and his signature 'Ring & Rope' routine. Eight of the club's top magicians competed in front of a specially invited audience at The Magic Circle Headquarters. The President of the Magic Circle, Jack Delvin said, "To win this competition requires outstanding technical ability, sleight of hand, performance skills and a strong personality. James rose to the top across all these criteria." This is the second time that James has won this award. A delighted James said, "I was amazed by some of my fellow performers tonight and am thrilled to have won this very coveted trophy and the prestigious title 'The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year 2014'. magicians.co.uk/performers/james-freedman.html. Brendan Rodrigues was placed second and Lewis Starnes third. Winner of the Originality Award was Noel Qualter. 8.2.14

Troy. E4's new one-hour, six-part, magic series, simply titled, Troy, starring Troy Von Scheibner launches on Tuesday 11th February at 10pm on E4, with a 'Sneak Peek' 5 minute preview tomorrow at 5.55pm on E4. From the programmes makers: "South Londoner Troy may look like an ordinary 24 year old; but don't be fooled by his unassuming manner as he is one of the UK's most impressive magicians. This brand new series enters Troy's world, where he uses everyday objects and situations to baffle and amaze unsuspecting members of the public. With his distinctive blend of close-up magic, studio illusions and spectacular stunts, Troy makes the pulse race and jaws drop as he shakes up the magic world. In this episode, Troy proves that it pays to be nice and also does speed dating with a difference." See TV Magic for full listings. 8.2.14

Blackpool Magic Convention - Record Sales! From the organisers: Blackpool Magic Convention 2014 enters the history books for the incredible achievement of smashing all box office records as the turnover hits a quarter of a million pounds for the very first time! Celebrations however are slightly muted due to the fact that their overheads have increased by £10,000. Takings have been boosted by a large increase in registrations from overseas and a 10% increase in British registrations. There are still a few tickets left for the Jeff McBride four hour Super Session Workshop on Saturday at 1pm at the bargain price of £95.00. Please be patient when trying to register as Arthur Casson is currently inundated with requests for registrations. The Dealers Fair is the largest ever this year with a number of new faces exhibiting for the first time. An innovation this year has resulted in 1,000 magicians being sent the Convention Newsletter by email with all the up to date information about the Convention. You can receive a copy by visiting www.blackpoolmagic.com. To register for the Convention email the Registration Officer on email arthurcasson@aol.com or visit www.blackpoolmagic.com. 8.2.14

The Bar Magic Event Returns! Following the success of the extra Bar Magic Night at last year's International Magic Convention in London, the organisers plan to repeat the event this year, on Saturday November 15th. Those who attended last year will know how great it was to be able to see close-up magic performed in a natural setting, a beautiful and intimate wine bar just around the corner from the Bridewell Theatre. Artists performed different length sets over the course of the hour and the audience had the chance to wander from one performer to another.

"In terms of bar magicians this year we have managed a real coup in being able to book two performers who really shaped how Bar Magic is seen in the US today; Doc Eason and Bob Sheets (photo)" says Noel Britten, the talent coordinator for the Convention, "Those who know their magic history will know that it was Bob who started the legendary Tower Magic bar in Aspen, Colorado. Doc saw him perform there, was mentored by him and then took over as the resident magician when Bob left. With almost thirty years of performances at the Tower Bar for Doc, and international performances and the tutelage of legendary bar magician Heba Haba Al with Bob, this promises to be an exhilarating and fun packed night that you can happily bring friends and family to, to see these two world class performers in their natural environment. They will be joined by other top performers still to be announced. As part of the ticket price you will also get to see Tom Mullica's one man Tribute To Red Skelton show on the same evening. As one of the world's most famous bar magicians while he ran his Tom-Foolery Bar, Tom always cited Red Skelton, a legendary American comedian, as one of his major influences, and in this special show Tom recreates some of Red's most famous and funniest routines. It promises to be an exceptional and unforgettable night of laughter and magic."

Tickets are available either individually, as part of a Convention registration package instead of the Gala Show, or in the full registration package with an additional Gala Show ticket for Sunday. Full details at www.internationalmagic.com. 8.2.14

Ever wanted to join The Magic Circle but were not sure if you were quite up to the exam? Well, The Magic Circle has introduced an Apprentice Scheme in order to allow those wishing to join, the opportunity to enjoy most of the benefits of membership whilst they prepare for their exam. You can visit the famous Magic Circle building, meet top magicians, watch lectures, see shows, receive 'The Magic Circular' magazine, study the museum artifacts and research in the extensive library. You may even get the opportunity to perform there yourself. Once you pass your exam, you will then be entitled to call yourself a Member of The Magic Circle (MMC) and have use of The Magic Circle logo in your publicity.

Apprentices will receive mentorship and support, although they are expected to already show the potential to pass The Magic Circle examination within the two years that the apprenticeship lasts. This will be judged in an interview with one of the senior members of The Magic Circle to establish that you have sufficient knowledge and skills. This is definitely not for beginners but more for the intermediate and above. You must be over 18 years of age and be proposed by an existing member who has known you for at least one year. Many local magic clubs contain members of The Magic Circle who will be able to give you advice and perhaps sponsor you. This requirement may be relaxed if you can show sufficient justification of your suitability for Apprenticeship. For further assistance contact: membershipsec@themagiccircle.co.uk Fees and subscriptions are the same as those for membership. More details: www.themagiccircle.co.uk/join-us/apprentice-scheme. 8.2.14

Doc Eason: Illusions Magic Bar One-day Masterclass, 16th or 17th April. Doc Eason has been a featured entertainer in Snowmass, Colorado for over 34 years. Last year he was awarded Close-up Magician of the Year -for the second year in a row- and Lecturer of the Year from the Academy of Magical Arts. He was the first magician ever named 'WC Fields Bar Magician of the Year' in 2004. His legendary 27 year run at John Denver's World Famous Tower Comedy Magic Bar speaks for itself. His enjoyable and informative lecture is about much more than Bar Magic. It is loaded with tips, lines, bits of business as well as audience tested material from his working repertoire. This acclaimed talk is designed so that everyone, from the absolute novice to the seasoned pro, will walk away with something useful.

Here is your chance to sit down with a working pro and pick his brain. To insure that everyone has the opportunity to ask Doc what ever they want, attendance will be limited to 15. This type of gathering can easily run 3-4 hours depending on the enthusiasm of the group. The £55 charge includes a set of his notes and refreshments. Doc generally starts with a performance of his classic card under glass which is a masterpiece of routining and card handling. Techniques such as his false shuffle, double lift and his top change are fully discussed. Usually this discussion sparks other questions and thoughts and the time goes quickly. Supplies needed are a deck of cards and a close-up mat. If time and the attendees interest level warrant, why not bring some half dollars along as well. 15 per class so only 30 places available in total. To book visit www.illusionsmagicbar.co.uk. 8.2.14

Steve Hewlett is... thinking inside the box. Britain's Got Talent finalist Steve Hewlett, embarks on his first major UK tour in 'Steve Hewlett is... thinking inside the box' together with his hilarious friends. From talking hands, to bottles of water, from Arthur Lager to little 'Simon Cowell', Steve and his creations won the hearts of the nation and wowed the judges in the BGT final. With special guest multi-award winning magician Richard Griffin. The tour kicks off tonight at the Congress Theatre in Eastbourne.
8th February, Congress Theatre, Eastbourne. 01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk
15th February, Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, 0844 576 3000 www.bhlivetickets.co.uk
16th February, Palace Theatre, Southend, 01702 351135 www.palacetheatresouthend.co.uk
22nd February, Oakengates Theatre@The Place, Telford, 01952 382382 www.theplacetelford.com
6th March, Customs House, South Shields, 0191 4541234 www.customshouse.co.uk
7th March, Grand Theatre, Lancaster, 01524 64695 www.lancastergrand.co.uk
13th March, Royal Spa Centre, Lemington Spa, 01926 334418 www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk
20th March, Melton Theatre, Melton Mowbury, 01664 851111 www.meltontheatre.co.uk
21st March, Theatre Royal, Wakefield, 01924 211311 www.theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk. 8.2.14

Perfect 10, a Lecture by Martin Peirce - Bath Circle of Magicians. Martin Peirce has been a professional magician working many years. Consequently he is not that well known on the magic circuit. The Bath Circle of Magicians are lucky to be the first society in the west of England to procure his lecture for our members. All his routines are tried and tested so he knows what works and what doesn't. His two-hour lecture is based on easy to perform miracles, allowing the performer to concentrate on presentation, involving cards, coins, mentalism and children's magic for everybody from the hobbyist to the experienced professional. His lecture is titled Perfect 10 which is the name of his first highly acclaimed DVD. There will be some magical "goodies" available for purchase on the evening. Visitors are welcome to attend. There is a £10 admission fee which includes light refreshment at half time. The meeting takes place on Thursday 13th March at 8pm at St Mary’s Church Hall, Queen’s Square, Saltford, BS31 3EL (Map). Email bathcm@virginmedia.com for further information. Ian Fraser, Secretary, Bath Circle of Magicians. 8.2.14

Peter Antoniou - 'Psychic' Comedian. Award-winning 'Psychic' Comedian Peter Antoniou brings his sell-out five-star one-man show to one of London's most exclusive intimate venues on Monday 10th March at 7.15pm. "Watch as he fondles frontal lobes and tickles funny bones. More accurate than a psychic, as funny as a stand-up. Whether you've pondered what the future holds, facts about the past, secrets of the universe, or just how a psychic spends his day, Peter has answers for you. It's like he has been possessed by the spirit of a cosmic Google. So just think of your question, sit back and enjoy the answers. Unbelievable demonstrations of mind reading, improvisational wit, and a hands on experience that you will never forget, this show will have you asking 'is your mind safe'?" Tickets are £5 via www.brownpapertickets.com/event/574968. Venue: Phoenix Artist Club, 1 Phoenix Street, London WC2H 8BU (Map) www.isyourmindsafe.com/shows "Prepare to be flabbergasted. Five Stars!" WhatsonStage.com. Peter also plays  Leicester on 14th February - see What's On. 8.2.14

‘Mark Shortland: On and Off Stage’ the brand new lecture by Mark Shortland: "Winner of the British Magical Championships; British Magical Comedy Champion; IBM British Ring Stage Magician of The Year; IBM British Ring Close-Up Magician of The Year; Four Times IBM British Ring Comedy Magician of The Year; European Close-Up Championships Winner; Member of The Inner Magic Circle. Regular performer at The Magic Castle in Hollywood and twice nominated for ‘Parlour Magician of The Year’ at The Magic Castle. Mark currently performs around the world on the top cruise lines, as well as corporate and private functions in the UK. Not many magicians have had the success that Mark has achieved in the relatively short time he has been performing. This full evening's lecture will show what got him to where he is today. This is one of the few lectures focusing on cabaret. Mark’s show has won him many awards and the backbone of the act will be explained along with the theory, choosing volunteers and audience management. The lecture will also include, close-up routines, children's effects and mentalism. Literally something for everyone and all delivered in Mark’s wonderful performing style." Dates are available in April and May 2014. Email tours@stevegore.co.uk for booking details. 8.2.14

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Christian Schenk lecture - Manchester Circle of Magicians. Mike Hinde writes: "Christian Schenk lectures at Manchester Circle of Magicians on Monday 10th February. The Card Shark has a big reputation for an excellent lecture with some tremendous ideas. Membership of the MCM is £20 per year and with over 12 top lecturers, auctions, competitions, teach-ins and no audition it has to be a 'best value' magic society. For more information visit www.taurusmagic.net/maninfo.html or contact secretary mike.hinde@ntlworld.com. Mike Hinde. 8.2.14

Conjuring at the Court – London, 27th February. "Legendary funny man and impressionist Bobby Davro returns to Conjuring at the Court! A TV star with an amazing record including his own Saturday night ITV shows, a year in EastEnders, appearances in Dancing on Ice, and Your Face Sounds Familiar, and too many others to mention. Bobby gave a surprise visit to the Court back in November, and had the audience in stitches – a wonderful performer. Don’t miss him. And there’s a terrific magical line-up too. The highly entertaining Lee Hathaway has terrific stage presence and fooled Penn and Teller! Neil Henry is an ingenious, engaging, performer with a devilish mind for miracles. Oliver Tabor’s sumptuous musician / magician act is a treat for the eyes and ears – a unique, clever, and delightful themed act. And it’s a first outing at the Court for the sharp and witty magician Carl Pettman whose dry sense of humour is a joy. Compered by the ebullient extrovert co-producer, Stephen Barry. Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing, London W13 8PH (Map). Thursday 27th February. Doors open 7.30pm and the show starts at 8pm. Parking is free after 6.30pm. Come early to enjoy dinner in one of the bars or the lovely dining room. Tickets are still only £10 and likely to sell out. Book via www.conjuringatthecourt.com. Russell Levinson. 8.2.14

Merlins of Wakefield have just released their latest ‘Preview’ magazine for February/March - if you'd like a copy, it’s free! To download Click Here, or if you would prefer a hard copy, just email your address to merlins@btconnect.com. Merlins will be at the Blackpool Magic Convention in two weeks time and have some great new items lined up! www.merlinswakefield.com. 8.2.14

Chris Congreave Lecture - House of Magic UK, Stourbridge. Tuesday, 11th February, between 7pm-9pm at House of Magic UK, 80 Brook Street, Stourbridge, West Midlands DY8 3XB (Map). The shop is the first venue on 2014 tour. Called "At Work and Relaxing". In the 'Relaxing' part of the lecture there are 8 completely self working, but hard hitting routines. These aren't counting card tricks, but good, easy, workable stuff. Some using cards, money, mobile phones etc., plus a routine that he has used for many years when he performs at restaurants for the 'Birthday tables'. The 'At Work' part features some of the routines that he uses at his gigs that do use a bit of sleight of hand. Midlands' based Chris Congreave is a Member of The Magic Circle and has been performing magic professionally for 14 years, full time for 9 years. He started out performing weekly at TGI Friday's and other residency work for 4 years and he now works mainly at weddings and corporate events. Tickets at £10 each can be purchased by ringing House of Magic on 01384 373209 or via www.houseofmagicuk.com. Stuart Millward, House of Magic UK. 8.2.14

Garrett Thomas - York Lecture. "Garrett Thomas, one of the world's foremost authorities on sleight of hand, will present an exclusive lecture at York University on Wednesday 19th of February at 7.30pm (doors at 7pm). The price is £5 to non-members of the York University Magic Society. All tickets are on the door.  Venue: "Your Space", York University Student's Union, York University, York. Parking (free after 6pm): Newton Way, YO10 5DE. Organised by Tom Crosbie and Chris Wall. Any questions, email: magic@yusu.org." 8.2.14

Francis Menotti's British Lecture Tour, April 2014 - now taking bookings. Joel Dickinson writes: "Are you a member of a local magic society? Francis Menotti's British lecture tour is currently scheduling for April 2014 and your club/society has the opportunity to learn, create and engage with Francis in his just-over-two hour lecture. This is not a 'theory' lecture to bore the crowd with vague conceptual ideas on 'being creative'. Nor is it a dealer demo or a 'trick-a-minute' lecture that barrages magicians with too much material that they’ll never use. Rather, Francis takes a 'live-by-example' approach to teaching magical creativity. The tour has started taking bookings, don't miss out on this opportunity." For full details contact Joel on 0771 584 7691 or email info@joel-dickinson.co.uk. Joel Dickinson. 8.2.14

The British Magical Society is pleased to present Chris Hare, author of Sensational Memory on Tuesday, 11th February. Paul Cadley writes: Chris Hare has been a professional entertainer for over twenty years, during which time he performed his Hypnotic Show for a year in the Canary Islands, six nights a week. He also performed on a cruise ship where he memorised the birthdays of over 300 passengers and was able to recall all of them instantly! During the lecture he also teaches how to increase your memory! Chris has recently released two new effects, Where in the World? and Where Next? Chris Hare offers an entertaining and informative lecture of powerful mental effects using everyday items. These strong and entertaining effects require 'know-how' as opposed to physical manipulation. Non-members are invited to attend for a modest £5 fee. 7.30pm at Selly Oak Ex Serviceman’s Club, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 7DL (Map). See www.britishmagicalsociety.co.uk for details. 8.2.14

West End Magic - Leicester Square Theatre, London. "West End Magic returns to the Leicester Square Theatre on Saturday 29th March with a family friendly show, featuring illusion, a reinvented box trick, crazy props, balloon heads, comedy magic and some very Tommy Cooperesque compering. Young and Strange will join the West End Magic Troupe this spring, performing their incredible illusions and tricks whilst attempting to conceal a mutual hatred, that results in them using magic to punish each other. Wes Zaharuk, the anarchic and hilarious prop meister, will use whips, Hoovers and bananas in unusual ways and with hilarious results. Meanwhile multi award winning magician Oliver Tabor performs his extraordinary illusions, where objects change form and shape in his hands that might leave you wondering whether reality really can be bent and manipulated. The very Tommy Cooperesque Christian Lee comperes all proceedings." March 29th, The Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, London WC2H 7BX (Map). Doors 3pm. Show 3.30pm. Tickets: £15 full price, £10 children, £40 family ticket for four. 8.2.14

Red Carpet Magic, Canterbury: "Inspired by the magic of Hollywood the UKC Magic Society once again presents their annual stage show. The magic begins whilst you walk down the red carpet and our talented performers enchant you right in front of your very eyes. Then be dazzled by our star stage magicians performing amazing feats of magic, all whilst raising money for the wonderful Make A Wish Foundation. Wednesday 12th February at 7.30pm. Tickets: Full £10 / Students £7.50 / Under 18s £5 Click Here to book or email contact@ukcmagicsoc.org for group discounts. Venue: The Gulbenkian Theatre, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NB (Map). Website: www.thegulbenkian.co.uk. Megan Knowles-Bacon. 8.2.14

‘Stabbed!’ - the  brand new knife effect from Secret Cabaret star Simon Drake: "It’s rare a whole new magic effect with a prop is produced and this certainly is that. Simon Drake has just released ‘Stabbed!’ which is an effect where the performer or assistant can be stabbed by multiple daggers with absolutely no risk of injury. Click this link to Simon’s House of Magic shop page and don’t miss the YouTube link to the amusing video of Simon casually demonstrating the effect: www.houseofmagic.co.uk/shop/stabbed. This brand new effect is also a very handy utility item to incorporate into other routines, and is also ideal for theatre/TV/film consultancy work etc." 8.2.14

Tabula Mentis XV - Inductive Reasoning. A day of lectures and presentations on Saturday 29th March from 10am to 6pm, featuring: Guest lecture Marc Salem; Peter Turner; Ben Cardall (Deduction Lecture); Brian Barnes (Al Koran Blindfold Lecture); Stephen Young (Photographic Psychological Profiling Lecture). Further details and ticket information available via www.psycrets.org.uk. Venue: The Paragon Hotel, 145 Alcester Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B12 0PJ (Map) Organised by Psycrets (British Society of Mystery Entertainers). 8.2.14

Cold Reading & Mentalism For The Psychic Entertainer: "Former Psychic Reveals All. After having worked extensively as a Tarot Reader, Clairvoyant and more conventional Psychic Entertainer and Mentalist for over 25 years Jonathan Royle has now put pen to paper and revealed all of his secrets in a new large format 478 Paged A4 hardback book entitled 'Cold Reading & Mentalism For The Psychic Entertainer'. From Star Sign Revelations and ACAAN Routines that blow minds through to the inner secrets that have seen Royle on TV Shows around the world. All is Revealed within the pages. 'Royle has some unique, creative and entertaining takes on such classics as ACAAN and Hoys Tossed Out Deck which are certainly worth a closer look and take them to the next level!' Peter the Perceptionist Turner." Available from www.lulu.com. 8.2.14

Matthew Wright Lecture Tour - on now! Steve Gore writes: Matthew Wright, two-time FISM award winner and Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year, is back in the UK in February/March for a brand new lecture tour packed full of magic, philosophy and humour. Anyone who has seen Matthew lecture knows that the passion he has for performing and practising is transferred into his teaching effortlessly. He will leave your club members with not only some new skills and tricks, but also with the inspiration to go away and practice what they already have. Matthew has been the Director of Magic at The House of Illusion in Spain for five years and during that time he has helped many magicians turn their promise and ideas into fully routined professional performance pieces. He uses this experience to teach you and your members how to develop and create your own original pieces, with simple formulas and lessons on character building, routining and rehearsals. This is not a boring “theory only” lecture though. Everyone from the 'new to magic' to the 'seasoned professional' will find something to excite and inspire them, including brand new effects never lectured before.
08/02/2014 Smoke & Mirrors bar - performance only www.smokeandmirrorsbar.co.uk
10/02/2014 Farnborough Association of Magical Entertainers. 8pm. Visiting magicians are welcome. £5 on the door. www.fame-magic.co.uk
11/02/2014 Newcastle Magic Circle www.newcastle-magic-circle.org
12/02/2014 Scottish Conjurors Association www.scamagic.org Venue: Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Glasgow G12 0QF. Visitors welcome. £10 on the door. 7.30pm - 10pm
13/02/2014 Nottingham Guild of Magicians www.thenottinghamguildofmagicians.co.uk
17/02/2014 Leicester Magic Circle www.leicestermagiccircle.co.uk
18/02/2014 Northamptonshire Magicians www.northamptonshiremagicians.com
19/02/2014 Leamington & Warwick Magic Society www.lawms.wordpress.com
25/02/2014 Hull Magic Circle www.hullmc.org.uk
26/02/2014 Zodiac Magical Society www.zodiacmagicalsociety.co.uk
27/02/2014 Surrey Society of Magicians www.surreymagic.co.uk. 8.2.14

Chris Congreave lectures at The Surrey Society of Magicians on 13th February. Adam Mosley writes: Chris Congreave has put together a new lecture for 2014, It's called "At Work and Relaxing". In the 'Relaxing' part of the lecture there are 8 completely self working, but hard hitting routines. These aren't counting card tricks, but good, easy, workable stuff. Some using cards, money, mobile phones etc., plus a routine that he has used for many years when he performs at restaurants for the 'Birthday tables'. The 'At Work' part features some of the routines that he uses at his gigs that do use a bit of sleight of hand. Midlands' based Chris Congreave is a Member of The Magic Circle has been performing magic professionally for 14 years, full time for 9 years. He started out performing weekly at TGI Friday's and other residency work for 4 years and he now works mainly at weddings and corporate events. He was also a panel reviewer and host on www.warpedmagic.co.uk. He has had several effects published in Magic magazine, Best of British and a routine in 3T, a book by Mark Tams. 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 please contact Adam Mosley info@surreymagic.org.uk www.chriscongreave.co.uk. 8.2.14

3 Day Stage Hypnosis Training Course on a Luxury Cruise Ship: "UK Hypnotists Making Waves... The Ultimate 3 Night Stage Hypnosis Workshop on a Luxury Cruise Ship 25th-28th October 2014. It's all-aboard for a 3 day hands-on Stage Hypnosis training course, where we will teach you the techniques and help you master the art of building and structuring your very own stage hypnosis show! The aim is building and boosting your confidence in this business through knowledge and expertise. The course is suitable for anyone wishing to learn Stage Hypnosis or anyone who is performing stage hypnosis in some capacity. Engage with two of the busiest UK Stage Hypnotists around today, Christopher Caress and David Knight! Last few cabins remaining so book now to avoid disappointment! Simply follow the link." Christopher Caress www.cruiseshiphypnosistraining.com. 8.2.14

The 2014 Scottish Association of Magical Societies Convention - update: The Saturday Night Gala Show stars: Oliver Tabor - a young man who took the IBM British Ring competitions by storm and we are delighted to have him appear at our convention; Russell Brown - Children's Entertainer, living and working in Blackpool; Slava Frolov - Juggler; Mark Shortland - Comedy Magician and four times winner of the IBM British Ring Comedy Award; Ward Allen - One of the country's leading entertainers, featuring his talking pet "Roger the Dog"; Aziz - Winner of the Harold McMillan Shield at last year's SAMS Convention. Lectures: Oliver Tabor, Mark Shortland, Russell Brown and Ward Allen. Dealers: Mark Shortland, Jimmy Craig and Alan Duncan. 2nd, 3rd, 4th May. Registration forms can be downloaded via  www.scottishassociationofmagicalsocieties.co.uk. Hotel Rooms: £80 double and £70 single per night for Bed & Breakfast and can be booked through our secretary, Elizabeth McNamara, Tel 01563 821241 or 07752 853703. Kenny Kerr. 8.2.14

The Manchurian Approach - Hypnotism for Magicians. 8th and 9th March in London. Anthony Jacquin writes: Whether it is to satisfy a fascination with hypnosis, the desire to mix hypnosis with your magic or you want to be able to perform impromptu hypnotism this course is for you. Open only to amateur and professional magicians and mentalists. This unique course is aimed solely at performance hypnosis. As well as intensive classroom training we will be taking these skills to the streets. You will gain the confidence, attitude, patter and techniques required to excel." For more information visit www.headhacking.com/training. 8.2.14

Steve Evans. Service, Click Here. "Mourners pay their final respects at funeral of inspirational Steve Evans" Click Here. 8.2.14

Leslie Press. Michael Chandler writes: Sad news. We learnt that Leslie Press passed away last Tuesday. Leslie, the son of Percy Press, was a well respected Punch and Judy Professor, magician and long time member of the Merlin Magical Society. He will be much missed. 8.2.14

"A Reality Show About Magicians, Because Why the Hell Not" Click Here • "Ilfracombe's Verity statue could vanish if magician Ben Ratcliff pulls off trick" Click Here • "Algebra-cadabra! Here's a classic magic trick, and the mathematical secret behind it" Click Here • "'Wonderground' variety show offers gamut of performers" Click Here • "National Geographic Channel Acquires UKTV’s ‘The Happenings’ & ‘Dynamo: Magician Impossible’ Season 2" Click Here • "Paul Daniels entertains train passengers with magic tricks on their morning commute" Click Here • "Magician to give lecture" Click Here • "'That's Magic!', Paul Daniels visits Huddersfield - but who is this magic man?" Click Here • "Magician Ricky Jay profiled in film at Academy of Music in Northampton (USA)" Click Here • "Five minutes with: Blackwood magician and Take Me Out star Jason Tatton" Click Here • "Bring some magic to complete circle" Click Here • And finally, "Mark Hinson column: Even 50 years later, The Beatles is still a tough act to follow" Click Here • Your UK magic news is always welcome - see you next week, Duncan. 8.2.14

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