Number
1312 - Saturday 16th August 2025
Almost Impossible 2.0: Martin Brock. Angelic
charm and a touch of devilry in a show to delight the whole family.
Illusions, magic and discover the secret to winning a fortune at poker.
Slicker than a Western movie gunslinger - Martin Brock dazzles with
world-class magic, illusions and sleight-of-hand tricks.
Back at the Fringe with an electrifying, one-of-a-kind spectacle of slick, mind-bending magic, laugh-out-loud comedy, cutting-edge video production and astonishing illusions – magic like you've never seen before! Top family entertainment! 'Prepare to be spellbound' (StageWhispers.com.au), as Martin Brock delivers 'glamorous and polished work' (Penn & Teller), all created from scratch, with the finale alone taking seven years to perfect! 'His original stuff is wonderful and brilliantly magical' ****½ (GlamAdelaide.com.au). Guaranteed the most thrilling magic you'll experience this festival! 'One of the best Fringe shows I have seen. Go see it!' ****½ (FringeFeed.com.au). See www.edfringe.com for details. 16.8.25
The
Magicians Table conjures up a spectacular Gala Night to support young
people with Hemiplegia. For their next trick, The Magicians Table,
London's premier destination for world class magic and mixology, will
join not-for-profit social enterprise Breathe Arts Health Research
(Breathe) to host a one-of-a-kind fundraising Gala Night! For one day
only on Friday 17th October, witness incredible performances from
resident magicians as well as guest performances, join an exciting
raffle and silent live auction, and help a brilliant non-profit social
enterprise that is using the arts to support young people with long-term
health conditions.
The funds raised will go to The Breathe Magic Intensive Therapy
Programme, a unique initiative that helps young people with hemiplegia
(a weakness or paralysis affecting one side of the body as a result of
brain injury or stroke) through the art of magic. With the funds raised
at the event going to support Breathe's impactful and life-changing
work, The Magicians Table's Gala Night promises to use magic as a force
for good. Tickets cost £100.00 + £10.00 booking fee each, and will
include an evening of special performances and a glass of Prosecco on
arrival. The event will be from 6.30pm to 10pm. For full details and to
book, visit
www.magicianstablelive.com/breathe.
16.8.25
Edinburgh
Fringe Magic Spotlight. The world's most boring card trick. Richard
Wiseman is presenting The World's Most Boring Card Trick at the
Edinburgh Fringe. 'Magicians strive to create an interesting show and so
I have a genuinely dull offering. I will be urging people to leave
during the show and success is an empty auditorium. Everyone who stays
until the end receives a rare certificate of completion' Along the way,
Wiseman will explore the psychology of boredom and examine how our need
for constant stimulation is destroying the world. One performance only
(20th August, 15.25 in the Voodoo Rooms), but be warned - it is really
dull. Have you got what it takes to endure the most boring card trick
ever? More details here
richardwiseman.wordpress.com.
16.8.25
Justin
Flom - What's Going On, The Magicians' Podcast Network Interview.
"Magic's most controversial figure agrees to a no holds barred
discussion and faces the music with Young & Hudson about his magic
exposure videos." Subscribe to
The Magicians' Podcast Network on Spotify:
Click Here or Apple:
Click Here. [This is well worth watching, but it's not a happy
experience. Flom presents the same tired arrogant arguments that we have
heard from others of his ilk. What a Charing Crosser. DT]
2.8.25
Dave
Jones Lecture - Merlins, Wakefield, 8th September. Dave is a Member
of The Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star, and has been a professional
magician for nearly 40 years! The Stage trade newspaper named him
as one of the top close-up magicians in the UK! Dave has worked with
Dynamo, Paul Zenon, Keith Barry, DMC and Ben Earl on their TV series,
and has appeared on TV with celebrities such as Cilla Black. His work
has also been seen on the BBC, RTE and National Geographic channels. He
is a past National Champion of Magic, winning the prestigious
International Brotherhood of Magicians Close Up Trophy, joining past
winners including Paul Daniels and Wayne Dobson.
His lecture contains varied Stand Up and Close Up material ranging from
self-working items to knuckle busting sleight of hand. Cards, coins,
mental magic and comedy all feature heavily. Along the way there are
lots on entertaining anecdotes and experiences gained from a lifetime of
magic. 7pm to 9.15pm. Doors open at 6.45pm (at the shop). Book your
ticket now for this lecture from a master of magic. Tickets and details
will be emailed to you. To book
Click Here.
16.8.25
Just
Alan—Not Just Magic. Jay Fortune writes: Five years ago, I started
writing and illustrating a book about an elusive hidden gem of our art,
Just Alan, and his unique philosophy and approach to magic. Many reading
this will be thinking, 'about time!' and many more will be thinking,
'Just... who?!' Alan is a legend in certain circles and his
award-winning Sands routine is one of the most authentic, artful and
memorable performance pieces I have seen. In fact, it was seeing that
routine way back in 2007, that led me to eventually embark on this book.
This book will share all of Alan's signature routines, scripts and
thinking, with his attention to detail and his striving to make his
magic quality in both method and presentation for his audiences.
We are delighted to have a foreword by Jeff McBride and the book is
being expertly edited by Larry Hass. The work has additional words from
Mystery School faculty and, we believe, will contain the most exhaustive
exploration in conjuring literature on two great effects: The Needle
Through Arm and The Sands of the Desert. With over 200+ large format
pages, hardcover and slipcase, plus optional souvenir extras, if you
would like to read more or help us with this passion project, please
check out the link below. Our aim is to make this a gorgeous book,
limited as a Collector's Edition, with over 110 original hand-drawings
by... erm... my fair hands (a-hem!). With your support, we can bring
this work of art to reality. Thanks for considering.
www.store.jayfortune.co.uk/product/just-alan.
16.8.25
David
Tomkins Lecture - Ilford Magical Society, 3rd September. Peter
Meacham writes: Ilford Magical Society will be hosting Mr David Tomkins
MIMC, for a lecture on Wednesday, 3rd September at 8pm. Magician guests
welcome, £10 on door. Ilford Magical Society, 176 Goodmayes Lane, Ilford
IG3 9PP
www.ilfordmagic.co.uk.
16.8.25
Wayne
McEwans Desert Island Tricks. "Step into the magical world of Wayne
McEwan, New Zealand's premier children's entertainer and versatile performer who
has earned both the Lifetime Achievement Award from Magic New Zealand and
Children's Entertainer of the Year honours from the Variety Artist Club of New
Zealand."
YouTube. Brought to you by
www.alakazam.co.uk.
16.8.25
The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week!
This week Paul Daniels from 'The Paul Daniels Magic Show' on 17th January 1987. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
16.8.25
Gaz
Lawrence Lecture - now booking. Gaz Lawrence writes: Starting in May
2026, Gaz Lawrence will be booking his lecture as he unveils the hidden
gems of the magical arts in his compelling presentation, "Blagging It".
This enlightening session will guide you through a treasure trove of
underground secrets and innovative techniques that have remained largely
undiscovered. Gaz will share ingenious gimmicks you can create yourself,
empowering you to perform magic with newfound confidence. Discover how
to breathe life into effects you may have overlooked due to challenging
components, as Gaz reveals clever principles and tricks to simplify your
performances.
Don't miss this opportunity to unlock hundreds of effects that can
elevate your magic repertoire—book a date for your club now and
transform your approach to the art of illusion! Best of all, Gaz is not
taking any fee for this lecture and is touring the length and breadth of
the UK. Contact him at
gazmagic@btinternet.com.
16.8.25
Chris
Cross: The Close-up Magic Show - November Tour Dates. Unlike most of
my shows for hundreds and thousands on big stages, this is a very
special intimate performance, where everyone gets the feeling of a front
row seat! Each audience will be a maximum of only 25 people. Tickets are
only £25 plus booking fee and have just been released. Fan of magic? Get
along and see the show! Get your tickets and I'll see you there!
Tickets:
www.chris-cross.co.uk/shop
Tour Dates:
1st: Rhyl, North Wales (The Galley at Sunnyvale)
2nd: Liverpool (The Quirky Quarter, Library Room)
3rd Chester (Alexander's Jazz Bar)
4th: Manchester (The Malmaison Hotel Ember Lounge)
5th: Sheffield (The Lost & Found, The Secret Bar)
6th: Leeds (The Lost & Found, The Secret Bar)
9th: Newcastle (Hibou Blanc, Private Dining Room)
13th: Edinburgh (The Malmaison Hotel, Bar Garden Room)
16th: Brighton (Hotel Du Vin, Private Dining Room)
17th: Bournemouth (Chaplins Cellar Bar)
18th: Torquay (Venue TBC)
19th: Plymouth (The Hyde Park)
20th: Bristol (The Lost & Found, The Secret Bar)
22nd: Durham (South Causey Inn, The Beamish Barn)
23rd: Whitley Bay (The Laurels Fringe Theatre)
27th: Darlington (The Angels Cut Whiskey Lounge).
16.8.25
The
Show - An Amazing Fusion of Magic, Mystery & Illusion - Featuring Belinda Jayne
and Chris North is reviewed by Steve Majes this week: "By the time the
cheeky, comical finale rolled around, the audience were laughing, applauding,
and clearly impressed by the skill, charm, and showmanship on display. 'The
Show' is an absolute treat for anyone who enjoys magic done with personality,
elegance, and plenty of heart..." to read the full review
Click Here.
The next show is on Friday 29th August at 7.30pm at Fisher Theatre, Bungay, Suffolk. Book online: www.fishertheatre.org or call 01986 897130. 16.8.25
The
Illusioneer Presents Magic Mix at Bell House, Dulwich, on Monday 22nd
September. The evening is performed by our own professional team.
You can expect to see every type of magic, including Street Magic, Close
Up Magic, Stage, Parlour Magic and some "Puzzlements". The individual
artists perform in London Shows and all over the world. We are only able
to tempt them back, as all our profits go to "Breathe", our chosen
charity.
Monday 22nd September at 7pm at Bell House, 27 College Road, London SE21
7BG. 7.15pm pre-show entertainment of Street Magic, Close Up Magic and
Puzzlements in the Foyer when you arrive. 8pm Take your seats for the
first half of The Parlour Show. 10.15pm Carriages. Tickets via
www.eventbrite.co.uk. Doors open fifteen minutes before the evening
starts. Bring your own liquid refreshments; we provide the drinking
vessels. Other Refreshments are available in Dulwich Village. This is an
adult event for 18+ No parking available on site, but street parking is
available. No booking fee!
16.8.25
James
Craig, better known as Jimmy or Jim to his many friends, last week
celebrated his 97th birthday. Jim was a founder member of the
Kircaldy Magic Circle in the 1950's and then in 1996, when it ceased
meeting due to a serious decrease in membership, he, along with the
other remaining 5 members, all joined Perth Magic Circle. Although it is
a one hour drive to Perth, Jim has attended every meeting, missing only
a handful in the ensuing years. He is also one of the first at every
meeting who is prepared and ready to show those present, a trick or
routine, many of which were from the days gone by.
Jim is a well known character in the Scottish magic fraternity, as well
as places further afield. He was a well respected Children's Entertainer
in Kircaldy and the Kingdom of Fife appearing at all the major venues,
Fairs and Gala Days in the area. He is a Past President of The Scottish
Association of Magical Societies and has attended more of the
conventions than any other magician. He was for many years a regular
attendee of the I.B.M. British Ring Conventions and also attended
F.I.S.M.
To mark this milestone birthday, and 25 years as a member of the club,
Perth Magic Circle is delighted to have unanimously elected Jimmy an
Honorary Life Member of the society. He was presented with a certificate
to mark the occasion in recognition of his contribution and lifetime
support of Magic in Scotland. Adrian Harris.
16.8.25
Originality
- Stagecraft Workshop with Mortenn Christiansen. September 1st,
7.15pm-10pm, in Nottingham. World Champion of Parlour Magic (Turin,
2025) and Comedy Magic (Quebec, 2022) - Mortenn Christiansen joins us in
Nottingham for a practical workshop on the topic of originality.
Expect lively discussion, practical exercises, and honest reflection as
we tackle questions like:
– How do we aim higher in our creative process?
– What does it mean to create magic that no one else can do?
– How can we stand out without shouting louder?
Ideal for magicians who want to evolve, take risks, and build material
that feels like theirs. The workshop starts at 7.15pm but join us from
6pm for food, drinks and the chance to share ideas with a growing and
welcoming community of magicians in Nottingham. Organised by The Curious
Cabaret. There are a limited number of tickets and details for all
events can be found at
www.curiouscabaret.co.uk/workshops.
16.8.25
The
Curious Cabaret - September Dates. World Champion of Parlour Magic
(Turin, 2025) and Comedy Magic (Quebec, 2022), Mortenn Christiansen
joins this month's cast at The Curious Cabaret alongside Francisco
Mousinho (Portugal) and host, Chris Wilder. 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. Tickets for all events can be
found at
www.curiouscabaret.co.uk/workshops.
September 2nd at 8pm at The Berliner, Beeston.
September 3rd at 8pm at Cosy Club, Nottingham.
September 4th at 8pm at The Blue Room, Lincoln.
16.8.25
International
Brotherhood of Magicians British Ring No.25, 87th Annual Convention,
14th September 2025 at The Concordia Theatre Hinckley. The British Ring
is delighted to announce that the incomparable Anita Harris will be
joining us at Hinckley to deliver the prestigious Jeffery Atkins
Memorial Lecture. Having worked on television with several famous
magicians - including David Nixon, Tommy Cooper, Ali Bongo and Paul
Daniels - Anita will share stories of her magical experiences in an
intimate conversation with Richard Cadell.
To be part of this unique experience register now,
Click Here. Day registrations include a ticket to the closing show
featuring Kane & Abel. Don't miss out, limited places available.
16.8.25
Magic
Cabaret Show - The Watford Association of Magicians. Lee Bell
writes: Magic Cabaret Show at The Henderson Hall, High Street, Abbots
Langley WD5 0AR. Friday 12th September - 7.30pm start. Tickets available
at
www.henderson-hub.org.uk. Parking is free, behind the High Street,
with just a two minute walk to the venue.
16.8.25
The
MLM Aug/Sept 2025 Podcast. Time to sit back and enjoy the latest
audio podcast offering from Mark Leveridge which covers the following
topics. Wayne Dobson – an inspiration. Are there too many standing
ovations? The impossible gig. The magic of Jonathan Creek. Why multiple
endings to tricks may be confusing to lay people. How to prevent bookers
from feeling short changed with your performance time. Is your magic
performed at an intellectual or emotional level? Why your success can
often be measured by the expectations of the spectators. Defining
clearly exactly what the trick is. There are two ways to listen to
this free 45 minute podcast. You can catch it either from
markleveridge.co.uk/podcast-archive, or from
markleveridge.podbean.com where you can also sign up to be a
follower and receive each new release automatically.
16.8.25
The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club. Featuring Lambert & Ross, Kim Davis, Carlo Santanna, Chris North & Jill, Mike Stand Douglas and Greengage. Series 5, Episode 8. From 1976. Sunday 24th August on Talking Pictures TV. See TV Magic for details. 16.8.25
The Repair Shop. The team restore a unique pair of cowboy boots that were found by their owner's mother in a vintage shop in the 1980s; a fragment of plaster from a kitchen wall holding a lost loved one's handwritten message; a magician's puppet who has lost his limbs and a Giles Barker award, originally given to film-maker Sid Perou. Thursday 26th August on BBC One. See TV Magic for details. 16.8.25
John
Breeds 1943-2025. Bob Gill remembers John Breeds: Yet another of
Magic's Good Guys has passed. John Breeds was a much loved and admired
pro family entertainer and magic creator, manufacturer and publisher.
Too many men mark their slide into midlife with a red convertible,
ponytail and a succession of dubiously judged relationships. Breedsy
found Magic... John Breeds is remembered by Bob Gill,
Click Here.
16.8.25
John
Styles 1934-2025. "Magician and light entertainer who was a leading authority
on the history of Punch and Judy"
The Stage.
16.8.25
"Fringe 2025 – slicker than a gunslinger –
master of magic Martin Brock"
Click Here • "Festivals diary: Where does a magician
get his rope and a case of mistaken identity"
Click Here • "Magician
Muthukad returns to stage in Kozhikode with tribute to father"
Click Here • "Olivier-Award winning magician joins Ghost Stories by
Candelight"
Click Here •
"Irish Magician Performs Potato Magic Trick"
YouTube • "Magician James Phelan brings new show to Salisbury"
Click Here • "'Viral' magician's blindfolded 'mind
reading' act goes viral"
Click Here •
"Magician James Phelan to perform in Andover on UK tour"
Click Here • Thanks as always to everyone who contributed news this
week - see you next week, Duncan.
16.8.25