Number 730 - 21st June 2014

 

Ponytailed Penn and silent Teller performed small stunts and some breathtaking classic feats with a twist, writes Bruce Dessau in the London Evening Standard (June 19th)... "Magicians Penn & Teller last toured the UK four years ago. I was amused by their multi-layered illusions then and now I’m positively bamboozled. Just when you think you have their number they tug the rug from you again and again..." To read the full review in the London Evening Standard Click Here.

Penn and Teller – these old dogs need some new tricks, writes Brian Logan in the Guardian (June 20th)... "There's too much talk and too few new tricks amid the fire-breathing, bottle-juggling virtuosity. Penn and Teller aren't just world-beating magicians, they're debunkers of magic, out to cure us of our credulity. One might generously speculate that this is why they've recycled much of the material for this show – anyone who saw their last UK offering, four years ago, gets a second chance to deduce how the tricks are pulled off. What we don't get is as high a gasp factor. There are still some wonderfully baffling set-pieces – but (at least for we second-timers) there's also more time to notice Penn Jillette's overheated patter, deployed to interminably defer this or that feat of fire-breathing, bottle-juggling virtuosity. Boy, can this man talk, and not always to the dramatic advantage of the spectacle..." To read the full review in the Guardian Click Here.

By command of Britain’s future king, a royal performance for Penn & Teller Click Here.

Penn & Teller are live on stage tonight at the Hammersmith Apollo, see What's On. 21.6.14

 

Champions of Magic - Autumn 2014 Tour. "Join our award winning team of tricksters, swindlers and cheats for a spectacular night of mystery you'll be trying to work out for a very long time to come. Audiences will witness mastery of card manipulation, death defying stunts, mind boggling sleight of hand and spectacular illusions from some of the foremost performers in magic including:
Young & Strange - Grand Illusionists “Fantastic, just amazing” Jonathan Ross; Fay Presto - Queen of Close-up “Incomparable” The Stage; Alex McAleer - Master Mind Reader “Phenomenal” BBC; Edward Hilsum - Magic’s Latest Sensation “A great act” Derren Brown. Champions of Magic includes 5 world class, award winning entertainers performing everything from stage-filling illusions to magic right in the palm of spectators’ hands. Along with a live video feed, fiery pyrotechnics and stunning lighting, the show is an immersive experience in the art of magic. Press Quotes:
“Spectacular family show... take a seat and prepare to be astounded, astonished and amazed” Heart FM
“Stylish and unbelievable” The Packet
“A night of spectacular magic and illusion” West Briton

Autumn 2014 Tour Dates
Sat 20 September 2014 Anvil, Basingstoke www.anvilarts.org.uk
Sun 21 September 2014 Orchard Theatre, Dartford www.orchardtheatre.co.uk
Wed 24 September 2014 Fairfield Halls, Croydon www.fairfield.co.uk
Fri 26 September 2014 St David’s Hall, Cardiff www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
Sat 27 September 2014 G Live, Guildford www.glive.co.uk
Wed 1 October 2014 Queen’s Theatre, Barnstaple www.northdevontheatres.org.uk
Sat 4 October 2014 Courtyard Theatre, Hereford www.courtyard.org.uk
Thurs 23 October 2014 New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
Sat 25 October 2014 Mercury Theatre, Colchester www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
Thurs 30 October 2014 Rose Theatre, Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org
Sat 1 November 2014 Colosseum, Watford www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
Sun 2 November 2014 Corn Exchange, Kings Lynn www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
Thurs 6 November 2014 De Montfort Hall, Leicester www.demontforthall.co.uk
Sat 8 November 2014 The Hawth, Crawley www.hawth.co.uk
Sun 9 November 2014 Wyvern Theatre, Swindon www.swindontheatres.co.uk
Fri 21 November 2014 Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch www.queens-theatre.co.uk

More information on the tour can be found at www.championsofmagic.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

Paul Daniels BRAVURA. From the makers: "Paul Daniels is one of the world’s leading magicians. A star of stage and television. Now he reveals his professional act in a DVD set that will be a landmark in magic publishing history. This is essential viewing for anyone wanting to become a professional magician. All the details are here, including his famous Electric Chairs. This is the expert’s guide on creating a working act and how to have a career in magic and succeed." Paul Daniels BRAVURA, the brand new 4 DVD set, is reviewed by Quentin Reynolds this week, Click Here. Available from your favourite MagicWeek Magic Dealer. 21.6.14

 

The fifth Edinburgh International Magic Festival will once again bring the most innovative and talented performers from all over the world to Edinburgh from 27th June to 4th July. This year magic collides with theatre, science, comedy, history, sideshow, technology and psychology as performers from the widest fields of interest come together in Edinburgh. In the opening Festival Gala Show, compered by Nigel Mead you will see Lukas from South Korea, the USA’s Rob Zachery, French champion of magic Xavier Tapias, BBC Real Hustle star R Paul Wilson, Archer and Smith (photo), Colin Cloud, Ainsley Hamill and Neil Kelso. The winner of The Great Lafayette Award will also be announced during the evening Gala. And that's just for starters... Visit www.magicfest.co.uk for details of this show and all the magical events that will be taking place during the course of the Festival. 21.6.14

 

London Presents... Laura London will be hosting a series of unique workshops at London's Hippodrome Casino, bringing you the best sleight of hand artists, magicians and industry consultants to talk intimately about what they do and to teach you what they know. The first, for 2014 is An Intimate Evening with Dani DaOrtiz and Christian Engblom on 13th & 14th August. For a lucky few, Dani and Christian will be sharing some of their closely guarded secrets. In great detail, you will learn some incredible feats and unpublished effects. Their magic is ingenious and exciting. Rarely have these two presented a workshop together. Drinks and Canapé reception. Only 25 seats available each evening. Over 18 only. For more info and to buy tickets visit www.lauralondonmagic.co.uk/LondonPresents.html. 21.6.14

 

Magic: Unleashed 2014 - York. US magician Alex Pandrea is the star lecturer at this year's Magic Unleashed One Day Convention at the Priory Centre, York, on Sunday 21st September, which will also feature new lectures from Chris Congreave and Wayne Goodman. Dealers include MAPro Magic, Mission Magic, Magic Tao, Magic World, Macrow Magic plus lecturers tables. Registration for the convention is £15 for adults and £10 for 16 and under. Group discounts are available. Book online at www.magic-unleashed.co.uk. From the organisers: "Alex Pandrea is considered a master of sleights by top magicians such as Chris Kenner, Richard Kaufman and Dani DaOrtiz. As the CEO of The Blue Crown, Alex has brought several of his own stunning effects to the market. In his 3-part lecture, Alex will teach tips on classic card moves, plus many original sleights and effects. Alex will not only share the method, but also his philosophies and theories on performing, and his minimalist approach to routining. All attendees will also receive 5 free video downloads via email after the lecture. The two other lecturers are our very own Chris Congreave and Wayne Goodman. Wayne Goodman's last release 'The Definitive Guide to Restaurant Magic' sold over 1000 copies in less than 30 days and Chris Congreave is one of the UK's top close-up magicians, has lectured at The Magic Circle and has released some of his original ideas to the magic community. We're delighted to have Chris with us." Magic Unleashed is organised by York magicians Martin Hunt of www.mapromagic.co.uk and Mark Foster of www.missionmagic.co.uk. Venue: York Priory Centre, 15 Priory Street, York YO1 6ET (Map). For more information visit www.magic-unleashed.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

Wayne Dobson Lecture - Watford Association of Magicians. Dov Citron writes: This promises to be an amazing night from a master of comedy magic. Wayne Dobson's insight, timing, inventiveness and comic brilliance have made him nothing less than magic royalty. If you want to share an evening with this master of magic and mirth then get this date penned into your diary today! 8pm on Tuesday 2nd September. Price: £10.00 for non-members. Venue: The Hall, Bricket Wood Social Club, Oak Avenue, Bricket Wood, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL2 3LQ (Map). www.wamclub.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

The Carl and Dave night... "Comedy, impressive illusions and knock-about fun. The comic spin that Carl and Dave’s Comedy Magic and Illusions act puts on the ancient art of illusion, has to be seen to be believed." Winners: British Ring International Brotherhood of Magicians Best Magical Comedy Act 2013. Watford Association of Magicians, July 1st at 8pm. Non-members welcome. £5 door charge. Venue: The Hall, Bricket Wood Social Club, Oak Avenue, Bricket Wood, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL2 3LQ (Map). www.wamclub.co.uk.

 

Mel Mellers Associated Wizards of the South lecture. Jon Hutchinson writes: The Associated Wizards of the South Presents a Lecture by Mel Mellers. Mel will be joining us for the evening to perform the unique mix of comedy and magic that has made him such a highly respected figure in the world of magic. This evening is free to members and non members can come along for just £5. About Mel Mellers: Born at an early age, Mel quickly developed his trademark playful style, honed in clubs, theatres and tours. It wasn't long before Mel attracted the attention of top cruise ships, with his debut performance on the luxury liner, the Queen Elizabeth II; where his sharp wit was greeted with great acclaim. Corporate clients and high end cruise ships quickly sought Mel's services, currently, to date, he has performed for nearly every cruise line in the world. Mel's other pursuits were his love of neuroscience, culminating in a Masters Degree in Psychology. This has been put to good use, by combining his performance skills and academic knowledge to present highly motivating talks, or as Mel puts it Lecturetainment ©. "Mel Mellers is a superb comedian: sharp, visually hilarious and with immaculate timing. His perfectly executed magic is a bonus!" - Nick R Thomas, BBC comedy writer. The AWS meet every Tuesday at Southern Parishes Conservative Club, The Hill, Upper Northam Close, Hedge End, Southampton SO30 4BB (Map). 22nd July at 8pm. See: www.awsmagic.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

Quick Change books by Lex Schoppi: "We have a 25% discount for our product bundle - the Quick Change book series by Lex Schoppi. Also, on single books we have 10% discount!" See www.lexschoppimagic.com. 21.6.14

 

Russ Brown's UV puppet act The Creature From The Blackpool Lagoon is appearing on CBBC's The Slammer next Friday, 27th June, at 5.20pm. The show can also be seen live throughout the summer touring Park Resorts across the UK. www.russbrownmagic.com. 21.6.14

 

Watford Association of Magicians Close-up winner. On Tuesday 17th June the EJ Crook Close Up Competition Award went to Andy Clockwise with the Technical Award being presented to Wayne Murphy. Second place went to Wayne Murphy and third to Gary Schiffman. Congratulations to all those that participated. It was a fantastic evening. Picture: Andy Clockwise picks up the award from last year's winner; Lee Florida. Dov Citron. 21.6.14

 

Pete Turner lecture - Bradford Magic Circle. Steve Gore writes: World famous mentalist, Pete Turner will lecture for his home club, the Bradford Magic Circle on Friday 4th July. I don't need to tell you the calibre of this guy. He has performed and lectured all around the world. 7pm for an 8pm start, at our usual venue, The Harold Club. Visitors very welcome. www.bradfordmagiccircle.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

Magicians at the Half Moon, Bishop's Stortford. Andy Clockwise writes: "He's back! Carl Pettman makes a welcome return to the Magicians at the Half Moon on Friday 27th June performing a style of magic enjoyed by all (well, everyone seemed to enjoy it last time) and this month he's being joined by Magicians at the Half Moon newcomer, Michael Carr." (The evening will be run like clockwork from the clock master himself, Andy Clockwise.) Tickets are just £10 each and it all kicks off at 8pm at the Half Moon, 31 North Street, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 2LD (Map). As always, it's best to reserve a ticket by calling Martin on 01279 659562. For more information visit www.halfmoonmagic.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

Matt Grindley is pleased to announce he will be returning to The Queens Theatre Blackpool on 3rd, 10th, 17th and 30th July for his Summer Season Show. This is ahead of his “Spooktacular” Halloween show in October. Spooktacular is now in its 4th year and Matt will be performing new illusions and will be joined by Thomas Bounce from Britain's Got Talent. Matt said "I’m thrilled to be back at the Queens Theatre and even more thrilled to have Thomas join me in October.” The box offices are now open for Thornton Little Theatre Blackpool and The Wave Centre Maryport Cumbria for Spooktacular. www.wyretheatres.co.uk www.thewavemaryport.co.uk. 21.6.14

 

Ian Adair: Thinking Tricks. "Ian Adair's latest book 'Thinking Tricks' reveals his tried and tested methods for originating magic, which has helped him create over 1,000 marketed effects and 315 books on magic over the years. The book contains 110 pages, is illustrated with drawings and photos, and includes six in-depth chapters providing tips, hints and advice on how to originate 'original' effects and routines; how to record ideas, and how to make money doing it. The author explains how to originate tricks and routines for your own show or act, for magic competition entries, for lectures, for publication, for marketing (yourself or through a dealer), for use in DVDs and even for magical advising for stage, TV and film. A complete chapter is devoted to magical inventors past and present, revealing those who originated many of classic effects. Limited edition - signed copies." For more information visit www.ianadairsbooksonmagic.com. 21.6.14

 

Street Magic Day in Hull, Saturday 5th July. Jon Marshall writes: St Stephen's Shopping Centre in Hull will become a place of magical wonder with about twenty of the region's magicians including young magicians from Hull, York and Sheffield presenting close-up magical entertainment all around the centre and in the Tent of Mystery. Street Magic Day is celebrating the eightieth anniversary of Hull Magicians' Circle. Magicians appearing include Domanic Li from Hull and Tom Crosbie from York. “We are really pleased that we have many young magicians taking part” said Richard Morrell, Humberside Young Magicians’ Workshop organiser, “they age from ten to sixteen”. Two of the Young Magicians who are performing on Street Magic Day are already award winners, Matt Woollens, age sixteen, from York was a finalist in the prestigious Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year competition in 2013. Leo Claughton, sixteen, from Melton has twice won the Junior Close-Up Magic Trophy at Hull Magicians’ Circle. Saturday 5th July, 11am to 3pm. Free! www.hullmc.org.uk (Photo: Young Magician Leo Claughton amazing audiences at a Street Magic event). 21.6.14

 

Murphy's Magic Supplies, the world's largest wholesaler of Magic have just signed an exclusive deal with British Magician, Hypnotist and Mentalist Jonathan Royle. As a result, sixteen of his products will now be available from major magic dealers, with more items being released over the coming year. Details of these releases which can all be ordered from your favorite MagicWeek dealer can be seen here www.murphysmagic.com/Search.aspx?q=jonathan royle also see You Tube. 21.6.14

 

International News: 3rd European Close-up Magic Symposium, 21st - 23rd November, Milano, Italy. "The most exclusive and original convention in Europe for Close-Up Magic! This event has attracted the best names in the world of close-up magic to Milan each year since 2010. Packed with big names in magic, private sessions with your favourite artists, international close-up competition, and more! The winner of the competition will get an invitation for the 4F Fechter's Finger Flicking Frolic in the USA." More information on the website: www.closeupmagicsymposium.com. 21.6.14

 

"Derren Brown: Infamous. Go as a cynic and come out as a believer. Rebecca Cohen is mesmerised by Derren Brown's show, Infamous" Click Here • "Sooty is celebrating his 66th year in showbiz with a UK tour" Click Here • "Peter Cholewa, 26, only took up magic a year ago but hopes to turn his talents into a full-time job" Click Here • "Magician Dynamo on what Vegas and your marketing strategy have in common" Click Here • "Magia Man: Puerto Rican Illusionist Hits Vegas Magic Scene" Click Here • "Magic man to trick Tringe" Click HereBasic Basic Card Magic by Paul Hallas is reviewed by Al Smith this week, Click Here • Ozzy Dee's Anglian Magic Society lecture is reviewed by Steve Majes, Click Here • "Steven Galloway on magic, memories and Houdini" Click Here • That's it for another week. Your UK magic news is always welcomed, together with articles and reviews. See you next week, Duncan. 21.6.14

 

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