Number
1288 - Saturday 1st March 2025
Gag
Reflex Proudly Presents The Remarkable Ben Hart. Edinburgh Festival Fringe & UK
Tour. Following sold-out shows around the world, multi award-winning
magician Ben Hart returns to the UK with a brand-new mind-bending theatrical
experience; his most astonishing and impossible show yet.
In The Remarkable Ben Hart, witness a world-class master of illusion as he reads your mind, manipulates the fabric of existence, and bends logic to his will. With nothing but his hands, a few simple objects, and his newly discovered uncanny mental abilities, Ben will peer into your thoughts, control chance, and make the impossible happen before your eyes. Witness his original impossibilities live onstage - with no camera tricks and nowhere to hide.
Ben said "There's nothing like live magic. It's unpredictable, electric—you can feel the energy shift in the room when something impossible happens right in front of people's eyes or there is a collective gasp of amazement. I've always loved that, but this time, something feels different. For years, I've performed illusions that mimic magic and mind reading, but lately, I've started to wonder if I've crossed some unseen line... Thoughts come to me before they should. Choices feel influenced in ways I can't quite explain. I'm no longer sure where the trick ends and something else begins. This tour is different—what I can do now feels... real. And that's as thrilling as it is unsettling..."
Tickets benhartmagic.com (photo credit: Matt Crockett)
2025
Wednesday 30th July - Sunday 24th August - Palais du Variété, Assembly George
Square Gardens, Edinburgh Festival Fringe
www.assemblyfestival.com
Thursday 4th & Friday 5th September - London, Wilton's Music Hall
www.wiltons.org.uk
Tuesday 14th & Wednesday 15th October - Eden Court, Inverness
www.eden-court.co.uk
Friday 17th October - Northern Stage, Newcastle
www.northernstage.co.uk
Sunday 19th October - Gardyne Theatre, Dundee
www.gardynetheatre.org.uk
Monday 20th October - Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen
www.thetivolitheatre.com
Wednesday 22nd October - New Theatre Royal, Lincoln
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
Friday 24th October - Corn Exchange, Newbury
www.cornexchangenew.com
Tuesday 28th October - Redgrave Theatre, Bristol
www.redgravetheatre.com
Wednesday 29th October - New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth
www.newtheatreroyal.com
Thursday 30th October - Lighthouse, Poole
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
Thursday 6th November - Guildhall, Gloucester
www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
Sunday 30th November - Norwich Playhouse
www.norwichtheatre.org
2026
Sunday 19th April - Lowry, Salford
www.thelowry.com
Sunday 26th April - Theatre Royal, Winchester
www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk.
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Amaze.
Live the Story. Experience the Magic. April 30th to May 11th, Straz Center,
Tampa, Florida. Amaze is a revolutionary experience in the world of
illusion. With Jamie Allan's signature blend of state-of-the-art technology and
timeless conjuring techniques, Amaze does more than just showcase magic, it
places it directly into the hands of the audience – inviting attendees to not
only witness but also partake in the wonder. Known the world over as an
innovator of magic and groundbreaking hi-tech magician, Allan has sold millions
of dollars in tickets worldwide and smashed box office records. The Chicago
Tribune hailed Amaze "a masterclass in magic performance," and "a luminous way
to spend an evening … Amaze will amaze you." See
www.strazcenter.org dates and times.
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British
Magical Society's 118th Annual Dinner & Cabaret with Paul Martin, John Kimmons
and Michael Vincent.
Phil Sweeting writes: Tickets are still available for the British Magical Society's 118th
Annual Dinner and Cabaret on Friday 21st March. Enjoy a wonderful 3 course
meal at the Westmead Hotel, Redditch Road, Hopwood B48 7AL, followed by after
dinner cabaret featuring Paul Martin, John Kimmons and Michael Vincent. Tickets
only £50. Dress code – smart. Reception 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Carriages at
midnight. Ticket enquiries to
treasurer@britishmagicalsociety.co.uk (deadline
for booking, 9th March). Why not bring a group of friends and get a table? We'd
love to see you there.
www.britishmagicalsociety.co.uk.
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Welcome
to Tricked Magic, your one stop shop for beautiful artwork and gifts all
inspired by the world of magic and variety, plus magic that can be performed by
beginners to professionals.
Our Digitally Hand Drawn Artwork takes inspiration from all areas of the world
of magic and variety, from your very first illusion to the balloon dog you've
made a hundred times. With our artwork featuring on Mugs and Coasters along with
our most popular Mounted Prints if you are looking for a gift for an avid magic
fan, or a piece for your own wall, we are bound to have something that suits
you.
As well as our artwork, we have some fantastic magic on sale, some of which has
been designed by ourselves, all with the performer in mind, along with
favourites from leading magic creators around the world.
www.trickedmagic.com.
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"Tom
Crosbie: Penn & Teller Fooled by White Rubik's Cube and Pure Skill!"
YouTube.
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"KSI
is wowed by 8-year-old magician Teddy Magic! Auditions, BGT 2025"
YouTube.
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Tom
Wright on Craig
Petty's Magic TV: 'Talk Magic'. Every week Craig Petty sits down and chats
with a well known magician; a creator, a performer, or someone who has had a
positive impact on the Magic Community. This week: "Tom Wright: The man
booked back-to-back at Blackpool through popular demand"
YouTube.
The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week!
This week, the charming Puppet Magic of Joe Castor in a clip from an early 70s
David Nixon show, introduced here by Geoffrey Durham on John Fisher's 'The Best
of Magic' on 3rd October 1990. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
1.3.25
New
From Mark Leveridge Magic. The latest release in MLM's exclusive Select
range of products is a routine called Psychic Spectators. Designed for a
parlour show setting, this off-beat effect combines mentalism with magic in a
pleasing and baffling routine. The theme of the presentation is that a number of
spectators appear to use the normally untapped power of their minds to make
magic happen in a number of puzzling ways! Using props that you will probably
already have, or which can easily be acquired or made, this video download will
teach you exactly how to present this easy-to-do and unusual effect, and since
it only costs £7.00, it won't break the bank either! To watch a dem and to order
go to
www.markleveridge.co.uk .
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Matricks
Illusion: Reimagined. Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford - tonight, Saturday 1st
March! Matricks Illusion features some classics of magic with a unique
twist, including some brand new magic and signature pieces from their recent TV
appearances. A slick, fast-paced production full of mystery, comedy and charm,
Matricks Illusion 'Reimagined' can be enjoyed by the whole family – and will
leave everyone breathless.
These guys have recently been featured on shows for ITV including the National
Lottery's Big Bash from Wembley Arena and 2022s Live Finals of Britain's Got
Talent. Most recently they've been filming for Disney+ and the BBC. They were
also featured on the Sidemen channel on YouTube, with the episode currently
standing at over 16 million views. Saturday 1st March, Gatehouse Theatre,
Stafford. To book tickets visit
www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk.
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Johnathon
Breckin presents 'Pure Imagination' a brand new magic and mentalism show.
From the promoter: Johnathon Breckin's 'Pure Imagination' takes you on an
unforgettable journey into the world of magic and mentalism making the
impossible seem possible. This intimate performance, set in the iconic Horseshoe
Bar at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, promises to leave you questioning reality as
Johnathon expertly blends mentalism with audience interaction. Prepare for an
evening of mystery, wonder, and mind-bending feats that will leave you
spellbound.
Let your imagination run wild and come and enjoy this intimate, family-friendly
show that blends mentalism, magic, and audience interaction. Selected dates
March to August. For more details and to book visit:
www.bookings.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com.
1.3.25
Celebrating
33 Years of The Crimp with a first 12 issues compilation. Jerry
Sadowitz writes: Celebrating 33 years of Britain's longest running card tricks,
close up, mentalism and swearing magazine, 'The Crimp'..a special A4 spiral
bound compilation of the first 12 issues is now available in an extremely
limited quantity. Featuring previously unreleased variations, bonus material,
notes and original artwork, The Crimp featured magic by Andrew Galloway, Peter
Kane, Alex Elmsley, Martin Gardner, Robert Neale, Bob Ostin, Jack Avis, Peter
Duffie, J.K.Hartman, Dr. Norman Nutjob, 'magic' Reg, Ham Shanker and many
others.
Also included is the full text of the 1993 card magic booklet 'out of sight' by Jerry Sadowitz with a few updated notes on the material. Purchasers must be over 18 and are advised that the contents of this book may be found offensive to some, especially to immoral plagiarists and ***** who refuse to practise. Mind you, they are usually too thick skinned and stupid to care. For further details, email jerrysadowitz@hotmail.com. 1.3.25
This
Month at My Mind Rocks! March is set to be a huge month inside My Mind
Rocks, the ultimate online community for mentalists! We're diving deep into 'The
Collector', a powerful routine from Looch's 2007 DVD Your Thoughts Are Mine.
This updated and refined course breaks down every phase, revealing new insights
to enhance your performances.
We're also thrilled to welcome mentalism legend Luke Jermay for an exclusive
live session on Thursday, March 20th at 8pm GMT! This is your chance to connect
with a modern master, ask him questions, and gain incredible insights into the
art of mentalism.
Plus, our weekly live member jams and monthly group session (March 26th) ensure
there's always something new to learn and explore. If you're serious about
mentalism, now's the time to join the best online mentalism community—visit
www.mymind.rocks and
become part of the inner circle today!
1.3.25
David
Britland's Cardopolis newsletter began in 2020 and has developed into a
monthly email newsletter. It is devoted to the history and practise of card
magic focussing on vintage and lesser-known items but with contemporary
handlings.
Cardopolis 36 has just been published and features tricks inspired by Chris Capehart, Bob Hummer, Jack Yates and Martin Gardner. Each issue has video tutorials and a Comments section for reader feedback. The scope is broad from sleight of hand and gimmicked decks to mathematical tricks and self-workers. Subscription is $35 per annum but there is also a free newsletter subscription option and over 30 free newsletters for viewing in the Cardopolis archive. Go to cardopolis.substack.com. 1.3.25
Ghost
Stories, the record-breaking West End Hit on UK tour, March-August. A truly terrifying
theatrical experience created by The League of Gentlemen's Jeremy Dyson, and
Andy Nyman, co-creator of Derren Brown's television and stage shows. Ghost
Stories mixes the very best of theatre with the buzz of a thrill-ride,
delivering something truly unique.
When Professor Goodman, arch-sceptic out to debunk the paranormal, embarks on an
investigation of three apparent hauntings – as recounted by a night-watchman, a
teenage boy, and a businessman awaiting his first child – Goodman finds himself
at the outer limits of rationality, and fast running out of explanations.
"...proper storytelling, wonderful characters, and scary too - with a whimsical undertone and a wholly satisfying ending. Loved it." MagicWeek. Are you brave enough to book? www.ghoststoriesplay.com. 1.3.25
Brando
Lecture - The Order of The Magi, 11th March. Mike Sharples writes: The
Order of The Magi is very pleased to announce that on Tuesday 11th March The
Helen Moran Memorial lecture will be presented by Hector Verikas aka Brando. The
lecture Welcome to the Paddlemania! and is all about the Paddle Move.
A wonderful move that allows you to perform great magic.
In this lecture you will find out why the Paddle Move works neurologically, also its
history, and you'll surely fall in love with one or more of the original paddle
routines presented by Brando and other great magical colleagues who he has
collaborated with through the years. These names include Ian Adair, Fernando
Keller, Toni Casas, Pablo Segóbriga, Silvana, Facundo Daelli, Federico Banegas,
Jr. Casas, Merpin, Mag Gerard, Hernán Maccagno and Samuel Arribas.
You will be able to learn in a much clearer way how to perform the Paddle Move
and some techniques to push the possibilities of the paddle to the limit.
Besides paddles, you will also find effects and moves with Hot Rods, Knives and
Jumping Gems.
The lecture will be held as usual at The Order Of The Magi, Irish World Heritage
Centre, Irish Town Way, just off Queens Road, Cheetham Hill, Manchester.
The meeting starts at 7.30pm.
Visiting magicians are welcome by prior arrangement with Secretary Mike Sharples
on 0774 8833666 or secretary@orderofthemagi.co.uk.
Entrance fee is £10.00 payable on the evening.
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The
Warlock Effect by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman. From Jeremy Dyson and Andy
Nyman, creators of the international smash-hit play and film Ghost Stories,
comes a new novel: The Warlock Effect. Set in Soho in 1952, this thriller
introduces us to Britain's most popular magician Louis Warlock, who is engaged
by the British Secret Service to try and foil a deadly plot that threatens not
only his life, but the safety and security of Great Britain itself.
The book is laced with the authors' joint love of magic. Drawing on many real names and places from the magic community, this thriller not only pays homage to the rich world of British magic, but also creates new characters in Louis' Brains Trust team, that are set to become new favourites. "Two great masters join forces to explosive effect" Richard Osman. Published by Hodder. Order via Amazon.co.uk. 1.3.25
Alex
Jesson's U-PIC - Flashcards. Direct from Matricks Illusion's theatre show
U-Pic Flashcards are now available on the market. They deliver a unique force
routine that's sure to amaze your spectators. Perfect as a standalone trick or
as part of an existing routine, these A5 size cards are ideal for stage
performances, ensuring the entire audience can see the magic unfold!
"This is exactly what I've been looking for! A clear and innocent way of forcing
a destination without any unnecessary process." Richard Jones - Britain's
Got Talent Winner. To order, Stage Size:
Click Here. Close Up Size:
Click Here.
1.3.25
The
Magic Circle presents 'All Done With Kindness' - London, 19th March. A charity magic show
making real magic happen. On Wednesday 19th March, the most exclusive
private members' club for the world's greatest magicians, will open its
doors for a very special event.
At The Magic Circle Headquarters, you will witness amazing sleight of
hand miracles and learn some of the fascinating history of mystery as
you explore the clubroom and first floor reception room in London's most
magical venue, a fascinating building where every corner is packed with
exhibits and illusions from one of the largest magical collections in
the world.
Then it's Showtime! Climb the floating spiral staircase to one of our
best kept secrets, The Magic Circle Theatre, and experience a full stage
show, for one night only, featuring illusions, mind reading,
sleight of hand, comedy and jaw-dropping prestidigitation.
Every ticket includes one free entry in a prize draw to be announced on
the night. A magical auction of just three very special lots will be
conducted on the evening.
And if you are lucky enough to book VIP tickets, you'll be making a
complimentary glass of bubbly disappear before enjoying a special guided
tour of The Magic Circle Museum, where you will find priceless magic
tricks and apparatus from famous names like Penn & Teller, Dynamo, Sooty
and HM King Charles III.
Strictly one night only, this is a rare opportunity to experience a
world class show from the stars of The Magic Circle.
We are very grateful to the superstar performers and other volunteers
who have agreed to donate their time for this fundraising event. All
proceeds are being donated to The Magic Circle Benevolent Fund
(Registered Charity 222408) which helps magicians and/or their families
when they need it most. The Magic Circle, London NW12HD 19th March
2025. Doors at 7pm, Magic at 7.15pm. Book here:
www.seetickets.com.
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Zac Coveney The Wonderist
- Etcetera Theatre, London, tonight!
Prepare to be transported into a world where the impossible feels tangible and
wonder is just within reach.
Zac Coveney invites you on a journey through mind-bending illusions, heartfelt
stories, and jaw-dropping moments that explore the magic hidden in our everyday
lives. From dazzling feats of sleight of hand to deeply human connections, The
Wonderist is an unforgettable experience that will leave you asking: What makes
you wonder?
Etcetera Theatre, Camden, London NW1 7BU on
Saturday, 1st March at 9pm. Tickets available from Etcetera Theatre Camden
www.etceteratheatrecamden.com. See
www.zaccoveney.com for all live show dates.
1.3.25
Book
a magic lecturer for your club today. Visit the MagicWeek
Lecturers
page!
1.3.25
"BBC
Breakfast : Steven Frayne formally known as Dynamo is up to his old tricks"
YouTube •
"Bradford 2025 will 'change lives and create magic'"
Click
Here • "David Blaine: Do Not Attempt. Preview (National Geographic)"
Click Here • "Disney Plus is about to make you scream with most 'intense'
show of 2025"
Click Here • "Expert magician to give talk on 'the art of deception'"
Click Here • "Interview: Meet Nigel Ford, the Taunton magician of 50 years"
Click Here • "Leading magician is taking to the stage at Glusburn venue"
Click Here • "The Unfair Advantage - In his upcoming show,
Harry Milas will expose the world of card cheating and we got a preview"
YouTube •
That's it! Your UK magic news is always welcomed - see you next week, Duncan.
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