Number
1301 - Saturday 31st May 2025
Hans
Klok: Face the Future, Thursday night, Blackpool 2026. Legendary
Dutch illusionist Hans Klok makes his return to the stage with a spectacular new
show: Face the Future. Inspired by the rapid technological developments
in AI and Virtual Reality, he invites you to join him on an incredible magical
journey through time.
The story starts with Hans Klok developing an online avatar, a digital double,
that should help him with the challenges that await an illusionist in this day
and age. However, the artificial alter ego develops a will of its own and
gradually begins to take over Hans Klok’s world. The only way Hans can stop this
process is to chase his digital alter ego on a journey through time, until the
avatar takes physical form and can finally be defeated!
Face the Future is a magical journey with breathtaking, fast illusions in
combination with nostalgic variety shows and contemporary technical ingenuity
such as the gigantic LED wall with impressive visuals. A spectacular family show
like the world has never seen! Blackpool Magic Convention 19th-22nd February
2026. Book now!
www.blackpoolmagicconvention.com.
31.5.25
Hullusion,
a brand new one-day magic convention on Sunday, 19th October. Welcome to
Hullusion! A brand new one-day magic convention like no other... Get ready to
experience a day packed with wonder and wisdom. Hullusion brings together the
very best in the world of magic and mindreading, for an unforgettable gathering.
What to Expect:
• World-class magic lectures from top performers.
• Exclusive dealers with the latest props, books and gear.
• A chance to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones in the magic
community.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro, passionate hobbyist, or just curious about the
art of illusion—Hullusion is your day to learn, share, and be inspired. Stay
tuned for date announcements, lineup reveals, and ticket info. Let the countdown
to the magic begin...
Hullusion Magic Convention, The Kenilworth Suite, The Goodfellowship, Cottingham Road, Hull HU5 4AT. 10am to 5pm on Sunday 19th October 2025. Early bird tickets are £20 for adults, £10 for children. Book via the Facebook page: www.facebook.com
The first name to be announced is MagicWeek favourite Noel Qualter! Noel fooled Penn & Teller in 2021 & when Penn finally found out the method said "that’s one of the best methods of all time". Noel is a member of The Inner Magic Circle, 3 x winner of The Magic Circle Originality Award, performer at The Magic Castle and a TV magic advisor. A professional magician too, he performs technology themed close-up magic around the UK. 31.5.25
"A
wedding proposal and Golden Buzzer! Harry Moulding is a magic matchmaker.
Semi-Finals BGT 2025"
YouTube.
Harry can be seen in tonight's Britain's Got Talent Final at 7pm on ITV1, having
been "Golden Buzzered" by judge KSI. Harry is the only magician
to have made it through to the Finals this year. Many congratulations Harry! DT.
"I just can't believe it - I've made it through to Britain's Got Talent
final"
www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk.
31.5.25
Timing.
Stagecraft Workshop with Jez Rose in Nottingham, June 30th. Timing...as
they say, is everything. 3 seconds can change a reaction. 10 seconds can change
the amount they remember. And knowing when to hold back, pause, stop, continue,
and release can change your entire reputation. In this fun, interactive workshop
you’ll learn the essential principles of timing that take any performance - and
performer - from good to sensational. We’ll look at techniques for performers
and for performance; for reveals, entrances, magical moments, props, delivery
and more.
The workshop starts at 7pm on Monday June 30th, but join us from 5pm for food,
drinks and the chance to share ideas with a growing and welcoming community of
magicians in Nottingham. Organised by The Curious Cabaret. Tickets and details
for all events can be found at
www.curiouscabaret.co.uk.
31.5.25
June
at My Mind Rocks – Does Method Really Matter? This month at My Mind Rocks,
we’re diving deep into one of mentalism’s most fundamental (and controversial)
questions: Does method really matter?
We put both high-tech and low-tech methods to the test, performing the same
effect using multiple approaches - from peek wallets to advanced electronic
devices - and uncover what truly makes an impact on an audience. Spoiler: it’s
not always the method. Our latest deep-dive reveals what really counts: choosing
the right participant, building connection, and creating emotional investment.
It’s a must-watch for any serious student of mentalism.
Plus, we’re joined live by Canadian professional mentalist Eric Samuels (author
of Setting the Stage) for a special session focused on real-world
performance and structure. Also included:
•
Weekly live jam sessions, Tuesdays at 8pm
•
Eric Samuels Live – Wednesday 11th June at 8pm
•
Monthly group session – Wednesday 25th June at 8pm
New members get instant access to all past content and replays. Join the global
mentalism community at:
www.mymind.rocks.
31.5.25
The
Magicians' Podcast Network - Blackpool's 4th Day:
YouTube.
The organisers of The Blackpool Magic Convention, Russ Stevens and Russ Brown,
join us to discuss all the details of what attendees can expect on the extra 4th
day added for 2026. They share all of the names and also, for the first time,
reveal the name of the second headliner who will finish off the day.
The Magicians' Podcast Network features multiple new magic podcasts each
week, with interviews, TV magic nostalgia and lots and lots of fun. Become a
paid subscriber now and also gain access to their full archives which include
interviews with Derren Brown, David Copperfield, Teller and many more.
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/MagiciansPodcast.
Subscribe on Spotify:
www.spotify.com.
Subscribe on Apple:
www.podcasts.apple.com.
31.5.25
Magician
Ben Hart interviewed for podcast 'My Time Capsule'. Ben Hart chats to
Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things he'd like to put in a time capsule;
four he’d like to preserve and one he’d like to bury and never have to think
about again. See
www.podcasts.apple.com. Photo credit: Matt Crockett.
31.5.25
Michael
Ammar Lecture - Cambridge Pentacle Club, 3rd June. Hugh Newsam writes:
Michael Ammar continues his tour of the UK with a lecture in Cambridge. As we
all know Michael covers so many aspects of magic, any attendee, close-up,
parlour, stage, hobbyist or full time pro will learn something! Doors Open
7.30pm, Lecture starts at 8pm, £10 at the door. Visiting magicians welcome.
Tuesday 3rd June at Cambridge Pentacle Club, St Andrew's Church Hall, Cherry
Hinton, Cambridge CB1 3JS
www.pentacleclub.com.
31.5.25
Kevin
Cunliffe (aka Psycho Kev) Lecture - The Order of The Magi, Manchester, 10th June.
The Order of The Magi is very pleased that on Tuesday the 10th June at our
Headquarters The Irish World Heritage Centre, Irish Town Way, off Queens Road,
Cheetham Hill, Manchester, we will be welcoming Kevin Cunliffe aka Psycho Kev
and his lecture: ‘The Good, The Bad, The Gruesome’. This lecture is over quarter
of a century in the making. Kevin has been performing magic and entertaining
audiences in their thousands from all around the world and entertaining both
magicians and general public. Now is your chance to see this fascinating and
informative magic lecture.
Kevin Cunliffe (aka Psycho Kev) was raised with touring circuses and has magic running through his veins, born as a fifth-generation entertainer. Kevin is one of only a small number of entertainers in the world to have won the prestigious 'Ace Magician of the Year Award' three times. Kevin also owns several Guinness World Records for his performances. Whilst performing the most mindboggling sideshow routines and visual stage illusions, Kevin also has an alter ego called 'Psycho Kev' and was chosen to appear within the infamous touring sideshow 'Circus of Horrors'. Kevin has also appeared at various Theatres and Festival Events in front of thousands and now he is bringing his lecture to The Order of The Magi in Manchester.
Kevin has finally decided to compile together some of his most closely guarded secrets, that have helped him along the way over these years. Consisting of fully time-tested routines and methods. Many of these routines and methods have come about by and aided him through challenging circumstances. It is from these circumstances that gave the title to this lecture ‘The Good, The Bad & The Gruesome’. Within the lecture Kevin will be covering Everyday Carry, Close-up, Mind Reading, Stage Illusion, Sleight of Hand and Sideshow. Prepare to experience the weird and wonderful world of Kevin Cunliffe aka Psycho Kev. The meeting starts at 7.30pm. Visiting magicians are welcome for an entrance fee of £10.00. For more information, please contact Mike Sharples on 0774 8833666 or email secretary@orderofthemagi.co.uk. 31.5.25
"Noel
Qualter's Desert Island Tricks"
YouTube.
Brought to you by www.alakazam.co.uk. 31.5.25
Sleight
- A theatrical close-up magic show in Nottingham, dates in June to December.
Join us for an exceptional evening of magic and astonishment, with captivating
storytelling, incredible mind reading, elegant visual magic, and pure sleight of
hand. Sleight is an intimate evening of theatrical close-up magic for an
audience of only 30 guests and features a rotating ensemble cast of magicians.
Hosted at The Berliner, a cosy cocktail bar in Nottingham, and home to The
Curious Cabaret. See What's On for dates in
June to December, or visit
www.curiouscabaret.co.uk.
31.5.25
Daniel
Sinclair: The Hypnotist & Mind Reader - Forum Theatre, Billingham, 22nd June.
From the promoter: Prepare for a night of wonder as one of the UK’s top
hypnotists and renowned mind-reader/mentalists brings you two unmissable shows!
With multiple five star reviews, Daniel Sinclair has been described as "the next
Derren Brown" Phoenix Arts Club).
A master of combining suspense with comedy, music and truly jaw-dropping
moments, Daniel’s shows will take you on a rollercoaster ride, leaving you
laughing out loud while questioning your own realities.
Part 1. The Mind Reader: A mind reading & mentalism show that will leave you on
the edge of your seats. Expect West End quality entertainment, Derren
Brown-style mind games and all-round psychological wonder as Daniel reads
volunteers’ minds and makes astonishing predictions live on stage.
Part 2. Comedy Hypnosis: A mesmerizingly hilarious hypnosis show where
volunteers have their imaginations unlocked and realities altered... all through
the power of hypnosis. Buckle up tight. Prepare to be spellbound and in fits of
laughter. Choose to see the show or be the show!
With performances spanning the globe from the West End to large theatres,
festivals, established holiday parks and viral podcasts, Daniel has a knack for
leaving crowds gobsmacked wherever he goes. In recent years, he has read the
minds and hypnotised thousands of people. He has also entertained and educated
many around the world with his seminar on the mind. Sunday 22nd June at the
Forum Theatre, Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees TS23 2LJ
www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk.
31.5.25
The
Curious Cabaret - Beeston, Nottingham, Lincoln & Mansfield, 1st-4th July.
Step into a world where the impossible feels within reach. The Curious Cabaret
is an unforgettable night of live magic, mind-reading, and razor-sharp comedy —
presented by a rotating cast of world-class magicians, each bringing their own
signature twist to the stage. No two nights are the same. From the astonishing
to the absurd, expect moments that will leave you questioning reality — and
talking about them long after the curtain falls.
This month featuring the elegant magic of Oliver Tabor, and the delightfully
quirky magic of The Unusualist. Tickets and details for all events can be found
at
www.curiouscabaret.co.uk. 1st July at The Berliner, Beeston, 2nd July at
Cosy Club, Nottingham, 3rd July at The Blue Room, Lincoln and 4th July at
Newstart Theatre, Mansfield. More dates in August and September. See
What's On or visit
www.curiouscabaret.co.uk.
31.5.25
Michael Ammar Lecture - Surrey Society of Magicians, 5th June. "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." Members are free and visiting magicians are welcome for a £15 entrance fee. The lecture takes place in East Horsley, Surrey at 7.30pm. For full details see our website www.surreysocietyofmagicians.co.uk. 31.5.25
International
Illusionist Andrew Van Buren receives Lifetime Achievement Award. “It was a
surprise when Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Keele University recently
awarded me their Borough Heroes Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of my
life as a performer, touring large illusion and circus skills shows, alongside
my Philip Astley Projects CIC work”, said Andrew.
The Philip Astley Projects CIC has grown a global reach, putting
Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire on the map as the birthplace of military
hero and founder of modern circus Philip Astley. We have created considerable
cultural and heritage recognition along with substantial funding and investment
into events, shows, exhibitions and town centre regeneration, alongside our
sister projects in Brazil, Hungary, Monte Carlo and more.
Andrew went on to say: “It means so much to have received this recognition, I
feel fortunate to continue a magic family legacy but also to have spent my life
bringing magic, enjoyment and entertainment to people around the world. I’ve had
some amazing people help me - and we haven’t finished yet!”
Photo: Andrew Van Buren receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Mayor Cllr Robert Bettley-Smith, Keele University
Pro Vice Chancellor Prof David Amigoni and Cabinet member for leisure, culture
and heritage Cllr Craig Skelding.
31.5.25
Oliver
Tabor's 'Openers and Closers' lecture, recently given at The Surrey Society
of Magicians is reviewed by Chris Wardle this week, "...I must just mention a
devastating mentalism routine which just got more impossible as it went along,
so that in its final phase of three, a spectator read another spectator's mind
having chosen a card from a deck which was only in the spectator's imagination!
Brilliant thinking and routining made this an absolutely stand-out sequence...."
To read the full review
Click Here. [To book Oliver's lecture for you club see the
Lecturers page.]
31.5.25
Wayne
Goodman Lecture - South Downs Magicians, 4th June.
Des King writes: South Downs Magicians will be
hosting a lecture by Wayne Goodman on Wednesday, 4th June. Wayne does more than
just a few magic tricks, he creates moments that produce memories and uses
comedy and interaction to leave his audiences and customers speechless and
amazed. Wayne is an Associate Member of The Inner Magic Circle with Silver Star
and has released many well-known magic products.
The lecture is on Wednesday 4th June. Visiting magicians are welcome to attend for a fee of £8.00 (pay on the night). The meeting starts at 8pm at South Downs Magicians, The Parish Hall, High Street, Handcross, near Crawley, West Sussex RH17 6BJ. See www.southdownsmagicians.co.uk and www.waynegoodman.co.uk. 31.5.25
The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week!
This week, Iron Maiden & Simon Drake: Raising Hell, from 3rd September, 1993. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
31.5.25
Lord
Harri Harrington Lecture - Home Counties Magical Society, 5th June. Robert
Wilson writes: Here’s a brief overview of what to expect during the lecture. A
blend of engaging performances and practical magic. Insights into Harri’s
creative process and a few of Harri’s favorite effects, including some
audience-tested workers. A chance to explore ideas for both close-up and parlour
settings, along with some behind-the-scenes tips. Harry owns the shop Pocket
Miracles
www.pocket-miracles.co.uk and has released a book titled "In Cloud Cuckoo
Land".
Guests welcome for a £15 charge. If you are interested in attending please get in contact with the society via our email hcmsenquiry@oulook.com. Doors open at 7.30pm, lecture starts at 8pm on Thursday, 5th June, at Home Counties Magical Society, Community Centre, Maiden Place Community Centre, 1 Maiden Place, Earley, Reading RG6 3HD. 31.5.25
Sean
Taylor 'Ted Oldham Memorial Lecture' - The Ulster Society of Magicians, 2nd June.
James Hobart writes: Sean Taylor will be presenting the annual Ted Oldham
Memorial Lecture for The Ulster Society of Magicians on Monday 2nd June. Open to
visiting magicians for £25, payable at the door, by prior arrangement with the
secretary (email
j.hobart@btinternet.com).
Sean Taylor is one of Australia’s best-known magicians. He’s an MIMC and has
lived and worked in Sydney for 30 years. Aside from his successful corporate
magic career, he’s has authored 5 books for magicians, released a dozen DVDs and
more than 25 effects. Sean‘s effects are practical, commercial, funny and used
regularly by working professionals all over the world.
Sean has lectured for The Magic Circle in London, MindVention in Las Vegas and
more than 100 magic clubs and conventions across 10 countries. The lecture is a
mix of close-up, stand-up and mentalism which spans Sean’s many interests in
magic. There are some easy craft projects, some quirky uses for things you
already know and some new work on old favourites. Subtlety over sleights and
effect over method. There will be something for everyone and every performing
situation! Sean has a unique range of products including new items which are
being seen for the first time in these lectures. There are comprehensive lecture
notes with video clips and also a selection of books.
31.5.25
Back-Chat,
The Weekly Blog. Mark Leveridge has been getting some great feedback in
response to his weekly Chatter Blogs, which are delivered every Saturday to the
inbox of all those who are signed up to one of Mark's E-Clubs. The blogs were
originally started in September 1992 and have appeared for over 30 years on the
1st of every month since that time, creating a wonderful, diverse, archive of
ideas, opinion, advice and information.
With Back-Chat, each week Mark selects one of the blogs from the archive and sends it out in order to inspire and entertain a whole new readership. Here are the titles of the blogs sent out over the last 12 weeks: Out Of The Mouths Of Babes…, Defining Magic, The Conundrum Of The Final Table, Mind Games, Looking At What Makes Great Magicians Great, Showing Magic In An Unfavourable Light, The Things They Never Tell You About Commercial Close Up, Enthusiasm, Assessing Magical Risks, Sloppiness Can Just Creep Up On You, The Big Self Delusion, If Magic Was Just Like Any Other Job. Each blog only takes a few minutes to read and hopefully provides you with a great magic start to your weekend. If you would like to receive Back-Chat, simply sign up for any of E-Club Lite, E-Club Pro or E-Club Elite by going to www.markleveridge.co.uk/#e-prices. 31.5.25
Billy Reid lecture -
Northamptonshire Magicians Club, 3rd June.
Joy Payne writes:
We’re absolutely thrilled to announce a very special lecture night at NMC with
the fantastic Billy Reid.
Billy is one of the UK's most devilishly brilliant close-up magicians. An expert
sleight of hand artist, he's amazed and astounded audiences at countless shows
and events across the country with his modern wizardry and incredible
showmanship.
As an impressionable 10 year old boy, Billy was captivated by a mind-blowing
magic trick. Today, his mission is simple: to bring to his audiences the sense
of wonder and intrigue he experienced that day. A 20-year journey from
impressionable young lad to fully-fledged sleight of hand Jedi master has seen
him schooled by dozens of master magicians, study hundreds of specialist texts,
and spend thousands of hours in painstaking practice.
Tuesday
3rd June. Start time 8pm – club room opens 7.30pm, admittance to the bar
via the front entrance from 7.05pm. Members free, guest fee £15 – pay on the
night. Northamptonshire Magicians Club,
Brafield Working Men’s Club, 35 Bedford Road, Brafield-on-the-Green, Northampton NN7 1BD.
Further information:
www.northamptonshiremagicians.uk.
31.5.25
Edinburgh
Magic - Caledonian Hotel, tonight! Enjoy 60 minutes of enchanting
Edinburgh Magic at the historic Caledonian Hotel. Enter the stunning
Versailles Suite and witness an unbelievable performance of magic tricks
that have fooled some of the most famous names associated with the city,
including Harry Houdini, King Charles and Harry Potter author, JK
Rowling. An intimate evening of wonder in enchanting surroundings with
master magician Kevin Quantum.
Wheelchair accessible and all areas are designed with accessibility in
mind. Nearby public transportation options make arrival and departure
convenient. Infants must be seated on an adult's lap during the
experience. Experience the magic of a Saturday night public performance
or opt for a private performance for your tour group on an alternative
date, subject to availability.
31st May at Caledonian Hotel, Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB. Tickets available at www.edinburghmagic.co.uk. 31.5.25
The Magic Circle History Day - London, next Saturday, 7th June. The Magic Circle History Day, run by Ian Keable and Marco Pusterla, is taking place at The Magic Circle, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London NW1 2HD on Saturday, 7th June. This event is dedicated to the rich history of Conjuring; the tricks, the performers, and the memorabilia. The event is open to members non-members of The Magic Circle. The day will feature notable international speakers discussing diverse aspects on the history of magic, a sit-down two course buffet lunch in The Wesley Hotel, tea and coffee breaks, an antiquarian magic sale, an opportunity to mingle with fellow historians and collectors, and some surprise events. Doors open at 9.30am and the event runs until approximately 6pm. Member Tickets: Click Here. Non-member Tickets: Click Here. 31.5.25
The Darlington Magic Circle Midsummer Magic Convention, next 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. 31.5.25
What's
On? Don't forget to keep an eye on What's On.
Often a news item will be featured on the main News page weeks in advance. I may
feature it one more time as a reminder, on the News page, as I have just done
with a few items above, but it is well worth keeping a weekly eye on the
What's On section as well. DT.
31.5.25
"Inside
Blackpool Pleasure Beach's mind-blowing magic show featuring Britain's
Got Talent star"
Click Here • "Playing with expectations, like a true magician"
Click Here • "‘Mike is sick’ – Super competitive Michael Jordan
tried to trick David Blaine while illusionist performed card magic"
Click Here •
As always your UK magic news is welcome; thanks to everyone who
contributes! See you next week, Duncan.
31.5.25