Number
899 - 16th September 2017
The
Magic Circle Awards. 15th September 2017
At a sparkling reception at Centre for The Magic Arts, The Magic Circle
presented their annual awards. The winners were:
The David Devant Award for Services to International magic
Silvan MIMC - the top Italian illusionist, writer and television personality.
The Maskelyne Award for Services to British magic
Debbie McGee MIMC - Debbie achieved national and international fame through
television appearances on the Paul Daniels Magic Show and was one of the first
women to join The Magic Circle.
The Carlton Award for outstanding comedy in magic
Pete Firman - best known for his television shows including The Secret World of
Magic, Dirty Tricks and his comedy circuit appearances.
The Cecil Lyle Award for Best Trick Published in The Magic Circular
Barry Cooper AIMC.
The John Neil Maskelyne Prize for noteworthy contributions to the art or
literature of magic
Ricky Jay - the well known actor, author, consultant and highly acclaimed
sleight of hand artist.
Silver Wands - for Service to The Magic Circle
Margaret MacLean AIMC - long serving regional representative of The Magic
Circle.
David Weeks MIMC - many roles within The Magic Circle, most recently Membership
Examinations Secretary.
The Gold Medal: Given for exemplary service to the Society or
exceptional magical ability both. There have only been nine recipients since it
was introduced in 1926 and it was last awarded in 2005
Winner of the tenth medal is Professor Edwin Dawes MIMC
Professor Dawes is a highly respected author, researcher, historian and
collector and has made an invaluable contribution to the world of magic and is
celebrated with the presentation of this award.
His work is highly regarded in the international magic community due to a
combination of its trustworthiness, which derives from his unflagging efforts to
seek and cite credible primary source material in his research and publications,
and his flair for weaving facts and broad historical perspective with engaging,
gracious prose. Consequently, many of Professor Dawes’ works are considered
indispensable components of a complete magic reference library.
His column, A Rich Cabinet of Curiosities began in The Magic Circular in 1972
and still appears every month, making him one of the most prolific magical
authors. He was also the founder of The Magic Circle’s annual History Day and
recipient of many awards from societies around the world.
Scott Penrose, President of The Magic Circle, said "It is a huge honour to
present Professor Dawes with our most coveted award. Our society owes Eddie a
huge debt of gratitude for all that he has contributed; such considerable
research and knowledge that will be studied and used by many generations to
come."
The Magic Circle, Centre for The Magic Arts, 12 Stephenson Way, London NW1 2HD www.themagiccircle.co.uk. 16.9.17
How
Magic Changed TV. Channel 5, Sunday 17th September. From the makers: The
story of the magicians whose spellbinding skills changed the face of television.
The most groundbreaking magical moments in TV history. Featuring contributions
from Penn & Teller, Stephen Mulhern, Debbie McGee, David Berglas, Dick and Dom
and Gloria Hunniford. See TV Magic.
16.9.17
The
Event 2018. From the organisers: The Event, a day of mentalism at
The Session, takes place on Friday January 12th in Heathrow, London.
This one-day event will boast lectures from the very best mentalists in
the world including Max Maven, Michael Weber, Luke Jermay, Marco Fida,
Luca Volpe, Anthony Owen, Quentin Reynolds, Chris Rawlins, Steven Palmer
and more. With such a strong line up it's clear why the convention sells
out every year. Register for The Event for one-day, or the entire
weekend to join The Session and see Paul Vigil, Johnny Thompson, Mike
Close and many more.
www.sessionconvention.com.
16.9.17
Paul
Gordon's Card Capers Day of Magic, Worthing, Sunday September 24th.
From the organisers: Paul Gordon's Card Capers Day of Magic is back!
Sunday 24th September at The John Selden, Worthing, West Sussex BN13 2EN
(Map).
It's a fun fast-paced jam-packed day of magic tuition, lecturing,
presentation, funnies, tricks, sleights and more. Food included. Advance
booking only. Come and learn loads of new Paul Gordon Card Magic, make
friends, relax and enjoy.
Click Here for full details and to book.
16.9.17
Derren
Brown: Underground - limited London run from master mind manipulator.
"Derren Brown: Underground at the Playhouse, WC2." www.thetimes.co.uk.
"Derren Brown, review: Master magician puts
his twist on the classics"
www.standard.co.uk.
"Derren Brown: Underground review at Playhouse Theatre, London – ‘an
evening of astonishment’"
www.thestage.co.uk.
"Derren Brown: Underground review"
www.timeout.com.
Playhouse Theatre, London. Click Here to book. 16.9.17
The
Alakazam Online Magic Academy. Alakazam write: The Alakazam Online
Magic Academy are pleased to announce we have just added two new course
dates for you to add to your diary.
On October 12th our tutor will be the master mind reader Chris Rawlins.
This is your chance to learn from one of the UK’s busiest working
mentalists. For more information
Click Here.
This coming Thursday, 21st September, The Academy will be hosting the
legend that is Michael Vincent with his Mastering The Classics Course.
This is your chance to learn from one of the finest magicians and
thinkers in the business. This is certainly a course not to be missed!
Click Here for more information.
On Wednesday 20th September it is the final lesson in John Carey’s
ground breaking 6 week 'Zero to Hero' course. This card magic course was
developed to help everyone improve their card magic, no matter what
level they are at. Buy your ticket now and the first five lessons will
instantly appear in your Alakazam account (that's more than twelve hours
or magic tuition)
Click Here.
Remember, you can watch and interact on any course while we are live and
of course each lesson will be saved to your Alakazam account after it
has streamed so you can watch it again and again. The Alakazam Academy
Courses will not be sold after the fact as a download, so you need to
book your place before the course date. Don’t miss out on the chance to
elevate your magic to new exciting heights!
16.9.17
Magic
Moments Day - tenth anniversary today! The Magic Moments concept,
pioneered by Jay Fortune and Richard Leigh, with incredible support from
the magic community worldwide, is evolving. From today, Magic Moments
will be an ongoing magical charitable feel-good initiative, reaching out
and working with the various altruistic magic projects happening around
the globe. It will help support magicians and charities who wish to
achieve something beyond the norm, using their magic to raise smiles and
funds for good causes. No longer tied to the restriction of being one
nominated day each year, Jay said "We will be working hard on support
projects taking the concept into special-needs schools, producing our
first ebook of magic and shining a spotlight on causes that have
benefited from magicians sharing their magic. We continue to thank and
work closely with MagicWeek who have supported the project from the very
start." Richard said "This next chapter will see Magic Moments blossom
into an easier initiative for magicians to participate in, with a
schedule which fits their world." Find out more about Magic Moments,
Click Here.
16.9.17
Edinburgh
International Magic Festival Christmas Special: The Secret Gift,
Traverse Theatre, 27th – 30th December. After a successful launch of
their festive edition last year, MagicFest Christmas are delighted to
return with ‘The Secret Gift’ Christmas Special, 27th – 30th December,
featuring stars of magic from around the UK and special guest performers
from Spain. Audiences of all ages are invited to enter MagicFest’s
wintery world of wonder and unwrap ‘The Secret Gift’ with performances
from five magicians including grand illusionist Chris de Rosa, magic
vaudevillian Paul Dabek, magician-scientist hybrid Kevin Quantum, and
Spanish performers David Blanco – a master of misdirection – and the
legendary ‘Bubble Poet’ Señor Pérez, who will bring the show to a
spectacular finish with a flurry of bubbles. Artistic Director, Kevin
Quantum commented… "It is heart-warming to announce the return of
MagicFest Christmas and I am thrilled that the show will take place at
one of my favourite Edinburgh theatres - the Traverse". For more info
and to book visit
www.magicfest.co.uk.
16.9.17
Conjuring
at the Court – Thursday 28th September. From the organisers: A show
full of variety! With the witty brilliance of Tim Shoesmith; leading
comedy magician Christian Lee; a feast of visual miracles from Richard
Griffin; and the arch-showman, gentleman juggler Mat Ricardo. Compèred
by the ebullient Roger Dunlop.
The show starts at 8pm and runs to 10pm with an interval. It’s in the lovely
function room of the Drayton Court, 2 The Avenue, West Ealing, London W13 8PH (Map).
Come early to enjoy a meal before the show!
Parking is free from 6.30pm. Tickets still just £11 in advance from
www.conjuringatthecourt.com ...the last two months were packed so do book
early!
16.9.17
Andy
Nyman and Jeremy Dyson's 'Ghost Stories' premieres at the London
Film Festival in October. Screening on October 5th, 6th & 14th, the
film will finally be unveiled. Based on their hit play, the film is
written and directed by Nyman and Dyson and stars Andy Nyman, Martin
Freeman, Paul Whitehouse and Alex Lawther. Lionsgate will be releasing
the film to cinemas in the spring, but if you want to see it at the
festival, tickets are available from the BFI, but it's nearly sold out:
www.bfi.org.uk.
16.9.17
Michael
Vincent and John Lenahan, plus new venue. Andy Clockwise
writes: Well, after 4 years in the Long Room at the Half Moon Public
House, The Magicians at the Half Moon are on the move to bigger
premises. Yes, they simply cannot fit into the Half Moon anymore and so
starting from Friday 29th September, The Magicians at the Half Moon will
be performing in their new home at Bishop's Stortford Football Club,
Dunmow Road, Bishop's Stortford, Herts. CM23 5RG (Map).
To celebrate, Martin Cox (compere and Show Producer) has invited two of
the UK's biggest names in magic along to perform... Michael Vincent and
John Lenahan! Exciting, yes? As per usual, doors will open at 7.30pm and
the show will run from 8pm 'til 10pm including a 20 minute interval. The
best news though is that entry will remain at just £10, so if you want a
great night out, if you want to see three great magicians at work then get
yourself along to Bishop's Stortford Football Club on Friday 29th
September and join in the fun! To reserve yourself a front row seat,
call Martin on 01279 659562. For more information please visit
www.halfmoonmagic.co.uk.
16.9.17
Secret Cellar, London’s hidden theatre of Close-up
Magic. With 5 star user reviews and a string of sell-out shows,
London's hidden theatre of magic is fast becoming the capital’s underground
hotspot for real magical talent. Witness incredible feats of illusion closer
than ever before...
Brendan Rodrigues: Intoxicated. 16th, 17th September. Winner of the 2016 Magic
Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year.
The Vienna Experiment. 27th September – 1st October. Sell-out show at the London
Horror Festival 2016.
Strictly limited to 33 seats. Please note due to the
nature of the cellar there is no wheelchair access.
Secret Cellar, Vaulty Towers, 34 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7RG (Map)
www.secretcellarlondon.com.
16.9.17
International
News: George Parker Master Class - The Alchemy of Presentation, Belgium.
"George Parker's magic is the most elegant, poetic and theatrical
magic I've ever seen!" Jeff McBride. George Parker, member of Jeff
McBride's Magic & Mystery School, will be in Brussels for a Master Class
for magicians on Sunday 29th October. This is the perfect opportunity to
present your act or routine and receive immediate feedback that will
help you advance to the next level! George will also perform in a
one-man magic show and a "LectureShow©" the day before the Master Class.
For more details and tickets see
www.georgeparker.be/for-magicians. Seats are limited! Early-bird
prices end September 30th. Also see
www.facebook.com/events/315878232201808/. Sunday 29th October. 10am
- 6pm. Venue: Le Trac, Avenue Albert Meunier 110, 1160 Brussels,
Belgium.
16.9.17
Andy
Clockwise's 'Clockwatching' lecture - now booking. A professional
award-winning magician with over 20 years performing experience, Andy
shares in great detail some of his best selling effects, as well as
several new ideas, creations and twists yet to be released in his new
lecture, 'Clockwatching'. Everything in the lecture is suitable for
close-up and stage, for children and adults - there really is something
for everyone! "He's a creative wizard, a comic genius and explosion of
energy. Do not miss it!" Dov Citron - Secretary of The Watford
Association of Magicians. See the
Lecturers page for more info and to book.
16.9.17
The
MagicWeek Video Archive. This week, Martin Duffy appearing on talent show
'Bob Says Opportunity Knocks' in March 1988. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To catch up with past weeks and the occasional
'bonus' video
Click Here.
16.9.17
Perth Magic Circle 2017/18 season. Adrian Harris writes: Perth Magic Circle kick starts the 2017/18 season on Wednesday 20th September at 7.30pm with the opening meeting being held in the Perth & District Ex-Servicemen's Club, 5 Milne Street, Perth PH1 5QL (Map). A full syllabus has been drawn up and the focus will be on performing and presenting magic. Old and new members will be warmly welcomed to come and join the fun at what is the greatest little magic club in Scotland! www.perthmagiccircle.co.uk. 16.9.17
Chris
Congreave Edinburgh Magic Circle lecture, Monday 2nd October. Gary
James writes: Chris Congreave is one of the most commercial and sought
after magicians in the UK. Not only is Chris a fantastic performer, he
is also responsible for inventing many effects used by some of the top
working magicians in our field. Classics such as Childsplay, The Light,
iContact and Diception. Chris has co-produced, along with his good
friend Gary Jones, great DVDs such as Automata and Trick Soup. Edinburgh
Magic Circle are delighted and excited that Chris will be lecturing for
us and will be the first guest lecturer at our new premises at The
Mercat. This will be the first time Chris has lectured north of the
border and if you are a working magician or an enthusiastic hobbyist
this lecture is not to be missed. Visiting guests on the night £10.
7.30pm for an 8pm start on Monday 2nd October at The Mercat Bar &
Kitchen, 28 West Maitland Street, Edinburgh EH12 5DX (Map).
www.edinburghmagiccircle.com.
16.9.17
Ali Cook Principles of Deception Tour. Ali Cook is on tour from September 16th with his one-man show 'Principles of Deception' taking in Aberdeen, Norwich, Bridport, Guildford, Chipping Norton, Bangor, Hemel Hempstead, Birmingham, Didcot and Melton. Tickets via www.alicook.com/gigs. Star of the West End magic show 'Impossible', BBC's 'Now You See It', 'Penn & Teller: Fool Us', 'Dirty Tricks' and 'Monkey Magic' Ali Cook returns with his own brand of awe-inspiring magic and off-beat comedy. Expect to be genuinely amazed. Taking its name from Arthur Buckley’s influential magic collection Principles and Deceptions – the first book to categorize every magic trick – the show demonstrates Ali Cook’s skill as a historian of deception. In a masterclass of technique across a range of magic disciplines, including close-up magic, mind reading and sleight of hand, expect an evening of magical invention and re-invention. "Forget what you think you know about comedy magicians - Ali Cook is edgy, intelligent, self-referential, caustically hilarious and one of the most sought-after illusionists on the planet." GQ Magazine. See What's On for dates. 16.9.17
Craig
Petty lecture, Cannock, Monday September 18th. Tony Dawson writes:
Craig Petty will be returning to the magic circuit after 4 years away,
presenting his lecture at Longford House, Watling Street, Cannock WS11
1SJ (Map).
Craig has been away from the lecturing side of magic but has been
working tirelessly taking 'Slightly Unusual' and 'Non Stop Kids' to new
heights. He is one of the hardest workers in magic and is kindly going
to share his routines, tips and advice for what makes for a good
performance in the real world. Come and join us on September 18th at 8pm
for an evening of real world working effects from Craig's personal
repertoire. Price: £5 to visiting magicians. Get in touch via Facebook:
facebook.com/3smmagic or
www.3smmagic.co.uk
for more info. Magicians only: This is a magic lecture, not an event
open for the non magical public, but visiting magicians are very
welcome.
16.9.17
Noel
Qualter Lecture - South London Magic Society, October 3rd. Simon
Rosselli writes: Noel is a professional magician and magic consultant
for Objective Productions advising on shows such as 'Help My Supply
Teacher is Magic', 'Now You See It' and 'Killer Magic'. In his almost 15
years as a professional magician he's performed several stints at The
Magic Castle in Hollywood, at the Harry Potter wrap party and at a
private show for the Saudi Royal family. He's was awarded The Magic
Circle Close-up Competition Originality prize in 2014 and 2015 and
placed second in The Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year 2015. He
has released several products to the magic community including Alarmed
and iDeck. In this lecture he will share his inventive, quirky, close-up
magic. From classic magic plots to wildly original premises there is
something for all fans of close-up magic. £10 for non-members which can
go towards becoming a member. Tuesday 3rd October. Doors open at 7pm,
lecture 8pm-10pm, at Clock House Methodist Church Hall, Clock House
Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 4JP (Map).
www.southlondonmagic.co.uk.
16.9.17
Merlins
of Wakefield held a lecture at their shop last week by Blackpool
Magicians' Club President Chris Stickland, and write: To a full house,
Chris showed three versions of his Coin Matrix, which fooled most of the
magicians present. He then did some amazing card effects, a variation on
Professor's Nightmare and a Ring On/Off rope effect, and finished with a
session on Topiting. Overall, a very enjoyable lecture that they would
recommend for any magic society. Merlin’s will be at
Kidology on Tuesday 26th September. This is a great convention for
Children’s entertainers, so we take items aimed at entertaining
children. If you are going (and if you are serious about entertaining
children we highly recommend it) and would like something taking,
contact us by Friday 22nd September
merlins@btconnect.com. We are
now taking bookings for our Merlins Dealer Dem/Lecture for 2018 – which
has now been seen by over 30 Magic Societies. For further details
contact Phil on 01924 339933
www.merlinswakefield.co.uk.
16.9.17
Steve
Dela lecture - Derby Magic Circle. Paul Sharp writes: On Wednesday,
27th September, Derby Magic Circle is hosting Steve Dela’s lecture
"Magic That I Use" at Breadsall Memorial Hall, Brookside Road,
Breadsall, Derby DE21 5LR (Map).
Doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. This lecture is full of usable
and workable material. Steve shares his wisdom from over 12 years of
experience as a full time professional magician. You will learn: Always
ready Mentalism; Marketed effects that everyone should know about;
Steve's pro working close-up act. Also: Tips and tricks on how to get
the most from your magic and mentalism; The importance of a 30 second
reset; Why always having something on you is the best way to do
business.... and much much more! To check out who Steve is and what he
has achieved, please see
www.magic.uk.com.
Past members and visiting magicians are very welcome at Derby, but there
is a small fee of £10 payable on the night. Please contact our President
Allan Humphries on 01889 590 975 or email
info@derbymagiccircle.com
prior to attending.
www.derbymagiccircle.com.
16.9.17
John
Styles is back on the road with another 'Music Hall' tour. His magic
and Chelsea Pensioner acts will take him to Buxton, Radlett, Lowestoft,
Brighton, Peterborough, Teddington, Barking, Corby, East Grinstead,
Weymouth, Poole, Bearsted, and Leatherhead, working with many
professional acts featured in the BBC's 'Good Old Days' TV programme.
16.9.17
Tom
Foolery – An intimate close-up magic performance at Bexley Magic Society. Roy
Marsh writes: Bexley Magic Society Presents Tom Foolery –
An intimate close-up magic performance with one of the most original and
smoothest magicians hiding in the magic landscape, Tom Whitestone (introduced by John Derris).
A musician and magician, whose highly trained
fingers have created some of the world’s greatest music in concert halls
worldwide, and have performed miracles of magic in the presence of
presidents, royalty and celebrities. The man whose passion for Mozart
and Vernon still fill his days and who will show you and tell of his
lifetime in music and magic. One more unique evening at the Bexley
Magic Society.
Wednesday, 20th September at Bexley Magic Society, Barton Close,
Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 8JP (Map).
www.bexleymagic.org.uk. Doors
open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Visiting magicians welcome at £10 on
the door.
16.9.17
Mel
Harvey Old Tyme Music Hall. Back from cruising in the Mediterranean,
Mel Harvey starts his Old Tyme Musical Hall theatre tour with his
"Sophisticated Sorcerer Act"! This Sunday Mel will be appearing again at
The Museum of Comedy, London and on Saturday 30th September, for the
first time, with "The Good Old Days" at The City of Varieties Music
Hall, Leeds."
16.9.17
Ian
Ogilvy and Peter Diamond. Alan Horne writes: Blackpool Magicians'
Club have lost one of its longest serving members. Ian Ogilvy held many
positions within the club including joint convention organiser. He
regularly attended club meetings and was an integral part of the happy
atmosphere on so many club nights. Ian had been a prop maker, performer,
comedian and professional wrestler, as well as having a successful
career as a jeweller. On the evening of 1st September a 'Celebration of
Ian's Life' was held at the Blackpool Magicians' Club. In attendance
were many members of the club, together with Jan, Philip and other
members of Ian's family and friends. The 'broken wand' ceremony was
performed by President of the Club Chris Stickland and Michael Shepherd.
Peter Diamond. The club also paid their respects at the funeral of Peter
Diamond. Peter was a regular supporter of the club for over 40 years. He
was a well respected illusion maker and had a dealer stand at the
convention for many years. At the funeral Brian Berry performed Peter's
favourite magic trick. Both of these men loved magic throughout their
lives and contributed so much to our world of magic. The Blackpool
Magicians Club send their sincere condolences to both families.
16.9.17
Planning
next year's programme of events for your club? Visit the MagicWeek
Lecturers page!
16.9.17
"Paul
Zerdin Introduces His Latest Puppet Character on 'This Morning'"
You Tube • "Magicians conjure up night of fun in
Portlethen"
Click Here •
"Magician Choi Hyun Woo speaks out about April Jinsol's magic trick
slipup"
Click Here •
"Recalling a grandfather's magic tricks"
Click Here • "Jarrett & Raja Move 'Magic vs. Music' to
Stratosphere Las Vegas"
Click Here • Dice Stacking with Steve Marshal on 'Penn & Teller Fool
Us'
YouTube •
"‘America’s Got Talent’ Mind Reader Blows the Judges’ Minds With Tweet
Trick"
Click Here • "Obituary: Dani Almond, the Dagenham magician who
performed for world leaders, dies aged 86"
Click Here • That's it for another week. When submitting news items
please remember the Friday 12 noon deadline, many thanks, Duncan.
16.9.17