Number
1294 - Saturday 12th April 2025
Masters
of the Impossible - Saturday 19th April on BBC Radio 4. "You felt like
the ground shifted beneath you. It felt like nothing was explainable. It wasn't
like seeing normal magic." Join psychologist and magician Professor Richard
Wiseman on a journey into the strange world of mentalism or mind magic, and meet
a group of entertainers who produce the seemingly impossible on demand. Discover
"The Amazing" Joseph Dunninger, Britain's Maurice Fogel ("the World's Greatest
Mind Reader"), husband and wife telepathic duo The Piddingtons, and the
self-styled "Psycho-Magician", Chan Canasta.
These entertainers all set the scene for one man who redefined the genre - the
extraordinary David Berglas. This International Man of Mystery astonished the
world with incredible stunts - hurtling blindfold down the famous Cresta
toboggan run in Switzerland, levitating a table on the streets of Nairobi, and
making a piano vanish before hundreds of live concert-goers. Berglas was a
pioneer of mass media magic, constantly appeared on the BBC radio and TV,
captivated audiences the world over and inspired many modern-day marvels,
including Derren Brown.
For six decades, Berglas entertained audiences worldwide on stage and
television, mentoring hundreds of young acts and helping to establish mentalism
or mind magic as one of the most popular forms of magical entertainment, helping
to inspire the likes of Derren Brown, Dynamo and David Blaine. The originator of
dozens of illusions still performed by celebrated performers worldwide, Berglas
is renowned for the invention of The Berglas Effect - also known as Any Card at
Any Number or ACAAN, regarded by many as the 'holy grail' of magic tricks and
something that still defies explanation. Berglas died in 2023, aged 97, taking
the secret of the Berglas Effect with him.
With the help of some recently unearthed archive recordings, Richard Wiseman, a
member of The Inner Magic Circle, and a friend of David Berglas, explores the
surreal history of mentalism, its enduring popularity and the life and legacy of
the man many regard as Master of the Impossible.
Featuring interviews with Andy Nyman, Derren Brown, Stephen Frayne, Laura
London, Teller, Chris Woodward, Martin T Hart and Marvin Berglas. With special
thanks to Martin T Hart and the Berglas Family for help with archive material
and to David Britland for additional research. Thanks also to The Magic Circle
for permission to use of the 2023 recording of David Berglas. 8pm on Saturday
19th April on BBC Radio 4.
12.4.25
Michael Vincent: 50 years of Magic. Michael's recent evening at The Magic
Circle, looking back at his 50 years in magic, can now be seen on
YouTube.
In a frank and heartfelt conversation with Chris Harding, Michael discusses
life, magic, career, loss and mental health, mixing in some wonderful sleight of
hand
magic along the way. DT.
12.4.25
Academy
of Magical Arts Magician of the Year 2009, Guy Hollingworth, joins Robin
Deville, winner of 'The One' in Blackpool, Marc Paul, one of the UK's leading
mentalists, and, from Germany, FISM manipualtion winner Topas on Sunday, 22nd
June at The Magic Circle Convention in London. In addition, the Convention will
feature the Magic Emporium Dealers' Showcase at the beautiful Wesley Hotel.
Whether you're a seasoned magician or a passionate fan of magic, this is an
event you won't want to miss! Non-member registration is now open,
Click Here.
12.4.25
Michael
Ammar Lecture - Sheffield Circle of Magicians, 13th May. The Sheffield
Circle of Magicians are proud to present The Michael Ammar Lecture in Sheffield:
"The lecture features a mix of my signature effects, time-tested classics from
over 40 years of performing, and a few surprises you've probably never seen
before. Every routine I share comes straight from my working repertoire—these
are solid, real-world pieces of magic. But more than just tricks, I've selected
material that highlights the way I think about magic: the theory, structure, and
subtleties that elevate performance. Many magicians have told me that it's these
deeper insights—the thinking behind the magic—that they enjoy most and take the
most from." - Michael Ammar.
Tuesday 13th May at 7.30pm at Sheffield Circle of Magicians, The Steel Cauldron, 3 Spooner Street, Sheffield S10 5BL. Visiting Magicians £10 (plus booking fee). Tickets for non-members of the SCM can be booked here: www.merchandmore.co.uk. Any questions contact SCM secretary Peter Hammond peteofloxley@gmail.com. 12.4.25
Northern
Magic Circle 'Easter Parade' Convention, 18th-20th April at the Crown Hotel,
Harrogate. From the organisers: Only a week to go, but there is still time
to book yourself a place for this prestigious event. The Saturday night gala
show, hosted by Brian Lead, stars Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year
Dave Loosley and the Stars of West End Magic, London's longest-running magic
show (Oliver Tabor, Vicky Butterfly and Wayne Trice), alongside Stuart Brown and
Peter Dean. The weekend of top-class magic will include talks by Vinny Sagoo
(Neo Magic), Geoffrey Newton (tricks from the Key Ring, plus a Tommy Cooper
tribute), Joy Spencer (Ron and Nancy: 'Minds in Harmony'), Dave Loosley, Rick
Tynan's 'Alchemy' lecture, with Ian Fenn ('Magic on the Air' – radio magic) and
on-screen magic nostalgia from British Ring President Aidan Heritage. A special
children's show will feature Clivo, Stuart Brown, the Harlequin puppets and
wizard Doug Gregg.
The Crown Hotel rates are the best in town, and convention registration rates
have been held for another year; so treat yourself to an Easter weekend of magic
at its best. "It's what every convention should be like!" Direct booking link:
www.shop.northernmagiccircle.org.uk.
12.4.25
Oliver
Meech Lecture – British Magical Society, 22nd April. Phil Sweeting writes:
About 10 years on from his bestselling Plot books, Oliver is back with a new
lecture, sharing material from his new book, along with some old favourites.
Expect fresh plots, streamlined methods and playful audience interaction. You'll
learn a variety of tricks – mostly using cards, with a couple of exceptions.
Several are 'scalable' from close-up to parlour/stage, and nothing's too
knuckle-busting. Oliver will also share some tips and techniques to inspire your
own thought bubbles.
All in all, it's going to be a fun-filled evening of fresh magic. As Liam Montier says in his quote for the book: "Oliver manages to be both creative and practical, a rare combination". Visiting magicians welcome (£10 on the night). Lecture starts at 7.30pm at our club house, Stirchley United WMC, Hazelwell Lane, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2PR. Good parking on site and short walk from Bourneville Station. 12.4.25
"Dave
Loosley's Desert Island Tricks"
YouTube.
"Mark Bennett's Desert Island Tricks" YouTube.
Brought to you by www.alakazam.co.uk. 12.4.25
Luke
Jermay Lecture - Bristol Society of Magic, 23rd April. Ozzy Dee writes: Luke
Jermay will present his new lecture at Bristol Society of Magic 23rd April.
Visitors welcome (£10). At 7.45pm at BAWA Healthcare & Leisure, 589 Southmead
Road, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RG. Luke is well known for his mentalism. This
lecture is a new close-up magic lecture with a mixture of routines for all
levels. Contact magic@ozzyd.co.uk for
more info.
12.4.25
Colin
McLeod Headlines My Mind Rocks Live Session. My Mind Rocks – the
online learning community for mentalists – continues to raise the bar. In our
latest live session, we welcomed Colin McLeod (aka Colin Cloud), the Las
Vegas headliner renowned for blending razor-sharp wit with world-class
mentalism.
In this exclusive 2.5-hour deep dive, Colin gave members a rare,
behind-the-scenes look at how he builds a mentalism show from the ground up.
Step-by-step, he walked us through his creative process—from initial idea to
fully formed stage production. It was raw, unfiltered, and filled with practical
advice from a performer working at the top of his game.
Members who attended live described it as "the best MMR session to date." Want
to be part of the most active and collaborative mentalism community online? New
members get immediate access to all past live sessions, course content, and
exclusive interviews. Learn more and join at:
www.mymind.rocks.
12.4.25
"Show
'em girl! Magician Alexandra Burgio shows Judges who's boss! Auditions BGT 2025"
YouTube.
12.4.25
The
Darlington Magic Circle Midsummer Magic Convention - Sunday 8th June. Join
us for an amazing day filled with magic from 10am to 5pm! With 3 outstanding
lectures and multiple dealers showcasing the latest magical innovations you're
sure to love, it's an event not to be missed. Sunday 8th June from 10am to 5pm
at Darlington Simpson Rolling Mills Sports & Social Club, Longfield Road,
Darlington, County Durham DL3 0HX. £20 + booking fee. See
www.thedarlingtonmagiccircle.co.uk for full details.
12.4.25
The
Magic Circle Easter Show at The Magic Circle, London, 17th-19th April. This
Easter, prepare to be amazed as The Magic Circle Easter Show brings a
spectacular family-friendly magic egg-stravaganza to the world-famous Magic
Circle HQ in Euston. Featuring an all-star lineup of magical talent, visitors
will get to see amazing magic up close as well as having their minds read and
even their pockets picked.
The show features Edward Hilsum, a winner of The Magic Circle's Stage Magician
of the Year competition, whose contemporary tricks have astonished audiences
worldwide. Joining him on the stage is the "Man of Steal" - theatrical
pickpocket James Freedman and the enigmatic mind-reading duo The Oberons who
make their London debut. The show is hosted by Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee,
Sam Fletcher.
As well as the stage show, visitors will also be treated to mesmerising close-up magic in the bar area and will have the opportunity to tour The Magic Circle's museum. Held within The Magic Circle's exclusive and secretive HQ in Euston, this show offers a rare glimpse into the home of magic. Perfect for families, The Magic Circle Easter Show promises to delight and amaze. Thursday, Friday & Saturday, 17th (2pm & 7pm), 18th (2pm & 7pm) & 19th (7pm) April. Now booking: www.seetickets.com. 12.4.25
Wayne
Fox's 'The Tutorials', at The Order of The Magi. "Wayne Fox's The
Tutorials isn't just a workshop—it's a confidence booster, a creativity
spark, and a skill-sharpening gem wrapped into one brilliantly presented
evening... Wayne didn't just teach us moves. He tackled the mindset behind the
magic. He talked about fear—the kind that keeps magicians from learning new
sleights. He shattered those walls with simplicity, breaking down seemingly
intimidating techniques like the retention vanish, until they felt not only
doable but fun..." To read the full review by Jonathan Royle,
Click Here.
12.4.25
The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week!
This week,
Mandy Muden on 'Astounding Celebrities' from 22nd December 2003 with
Cliff Richard and Claire Sweeney. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
12.4.25
Merlins
of Wakefield - free postage offer. We know times are tough with rising
costs, so we are now offering free postage on all UK orders over £50 and
international orders over £125. The offer will remain until further notice. All
postage will be tracked and signed. Visit
www.merlinswakefield.com.
12.4.25
Ulster
Society of Magicians Chairman's Dinner. James Hobart writes: Monday 14th
April is the deadline for booking for Darren Close's Chairman's Dinner on the
Saturday evening of MagiCon 2025. After dinner Griffin & Jones will perform
their full evening show and close-up magic will happen at your table from Fay
Presto and others.
The
3 course dinner and cabaret can be included in some Saturday registrations
or booked separately for the bargain price of just £40. Please let Paula
McIntyre know the number of guests in your party before April 14th 2025. She can
be contacted at
usm.treasurer@outlook.com. There are still some rooms available at the
hotel at the time
of going to press and using the code MAGICCON (with two Cs in this instance)
online will reduce the booking rate.
12.4.25
Russ
Brown Yes Man! - Wolverhampton Circle of Magicians, 16th April. Jay Adkins
writes: Yes Man! is the latest lecture by magician Russ Brown. The new lecture
features some of Russ's favourite effects and brand new ideas. Russ discusses
his scary world of saying "yes" to challenges and projects- and why he dives in
head first! Visiting magicians are welcome for a fee of just £10.00 (pay on the
night). The lecture starts at 8pm at the Hollybush, 494 Penn Road, Wolverhampton
WV4 4HU www.wcm-magic.co.uk.
12.4.25
MLM
Web Offers Apr/May 2025. Mark Leveridge products are already great value,
but if you take advantage of Mark's Web Offers, you can catch some total
bargains. Currently you can save money on Mark's coin magic e-book entitled
Four-midable Coin Creations. In the 30 pages of this PDF publication, four
great coin routines are carefully described and illustrated with over 40 colour
photos. You will learn Cash Withdrawal, Magnetic Coins, Loose
Change and Seeker Coin, visual effects to delight any coin worker.
Normal price for Four-midable Coin Creations is £12.00, but purchase it
before the end of May and you will only have to pay £7.00. For more information
and to order go to
www.markleveridge.co.uk.
12.4.25
Hocus
Focus - London, 12th & 13th April. Hocus
Focus The Kid Who Missed The Trick - a brand new family magic show in
London. Pete and Alex are a pair of pyjamas. No wait. Performers. And
they're here to tell you a story about an incredible adventure, full of comedy,
audience interaction... and real, mind-blowing magic. But they keep getting
distracted by their phones. If they can look up for a second, they'll introduce
you to all kinds of characters. An amazing talking frog. An invisible wizard,
too. A giant rabbit with an attitude problem. And there's also Hocus, a small
boy who longs to be a magician, until a wicked conjuror swipes his attention and
traps it in a small black glass box.
Starring Pete and Alex Heat, this family magic show is perfect for anyone aged 7
and above. The run is extremely limited so tickets will sell fast... book now to
avoid disappointment! 12th & 13th April.
www.magicianstablelive.com/hocus-focus.
12.4.25
"Steven
Frayne: Up Close and Magical review – Dynamo unplugged"
Click Here • "Steven Frayne review — the magician puts Dynamo to rest"
[subscription]
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adventure"
Click Here • "Magician conjures up top prize in Borough Heroes Awards"
Click Here • "Illusionist Rick Thomas, April 24"
Click Here • "Magician David Blaine Admits He Got a Tattoo in Invisible Ink
— Then Forgot He Had It (Exclusive)"
Click Here • "Illusionist Michael Boyd to Debut Mystique at Brisbane
Powerhouse This Weekend"
Click Here • Many thanks for all your news submissions, see you next week, Duncan.
12.4.25