Number
1338 - Saturday 14th February 2026
Derren
Brown returns to Channel 4 with ambitious social experiment. Derren Brown:
Incognito [working title] is a new six-part series from Channel 4, Vaudeville
Productions and the mind of Derren Brown.
We all make snap judgements about
people, built on years of social conditioning and personal prejudice. But what
happens when those prejudices are put to the test in the most unexpected
circumstances?
Ten strangers with wildly different backgrounds move into a mysterious
institution for seven days. They all have one thing in common: an identity which
leads people to make instant judgements about them. There might be a Soldier, a
Spy, a Priest or a Porn Star. Each of the strangers think they have one aim: to
learn the identity of the other players whilst keeping their own hidden. But
Derren has other ideas; this isn’t really a gripping game of Guess Who, it’s a
mischievous psychological experiment designed to explore how our identities
shape who we are, how we act, and how our prejudices can sometimes blind us from
the obvious.
In an increasingly divided and polarised society, can Derren change the players’
long-standing views and help them discover a new empathy for their fellow
contestants? Or will the old prejudices remain once the masks are off? Derren
said, "This has been a fascinating new venture. With my previous shows I’ve
normally had a clear idea of how things will conclude, this was very different.
It’s a show about how we form opinions, live by our labels, judge others by
them. And what happens when all that’s removed. It was a beautiful and
extraordinary thing to make."
Derren Brown: Incognito was commissioned for Channel 4 by Head of Live Events
Tom Beck, Commissioning Editor for Reality and Entertainment, Genna Gibson with
Head of Reality Entertainment Steve Handley. Head of Production for Vaudeville
is Susi Hollins. Series Producer for Vaudeville is Kit Simpson with Executive
Producers Maia Liddell, Andrew O’Connor, and Derren Brown. Creative Director is
Adam Adler, and Paul Sandler and Michael Vine for Vaudeville Productions.
14.2.26
Congratulations
to The Magic Circle's Young Magician of the Year, Harry Merlin Piper
on making it through all four rounds in the Junior Variety category of the
new Netflix show 'Star Search', to get to the Final, which takes place
this
Tuesday, live on Netflix. Unlike preceding rounds, in which Jelly
Roll, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Chrissy Teigen judged, the finale relies
solely on the votes of the audience at home. Here in the UK the live show
will go out late night Tuesday (2am, Wednesday).
14.2.26
Radek
Hoffman Live at My Mind Rocks – 18th February, 8pm (UK). My Mind
Rocks welcomes Radek Hoffman for a live online lecture on Tuesday 18th
February at 8pm (UK). Author of The Art of Revealing, Radek’s
work has been widely praised for its intelligent, practical approach to
strengthening the moment of revelation. In this exclusive session, he’ll
share insights into structure, psychology, and how to elevate the impact
of your reveals, followed by live Q&A.
My Mind Rocks members also enjoy weekly jam sessions and a 20% discount
at Read My Mind Ltd. More details at:
www.mymind.rocks.
14.2.26
Public
Shows at The Magic Circle. Magic Showcase returns, and our weekly
line-up is more magical than ever...
Thursday: Magic Showcase
March at The Magic Circle sees the return on alternate Thursdays of our
popular Magic Showcase, a fast-paced night featuring eight of our
members on stage. Tickets are only £15 for a two-hour show.
Friday: Close-up at The Magic Circle
In our long-running Friday night favourite, four different magicians
perform breathtaking magic, right under your nose.
Saturday: Secrets of The Magic Circle
Our premium experience offers every visitor the VIP treatment. From the
very best close-up magicians in the world to a spectacular show in our
theatre, this is a must-see.
Sunday: Kids Show Live
Our very best family entertainers bring laughter, fun, and amazement to
our theatre.
All these shows, and more! Visit: www.themagiccircle.co.uk/shows. 14.2.26
Britain's Got Talent - new series starts 21st February. Ant and Dec host the nationwide talent search, which sees a wide variety of acts compete for the chance to win a cash prize of £250,000 and a coveted slot at the Royal Variety Performance. Musician KSI replaces Bruno Tonioli on the judging panel, joining Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon for the first set of auditions at Blackpool's Winter Gardens. This new series starts next Saturday, 21st February, on ITV1. [More magic acts in this new series, starting on Saturday. DT]. 14.2.26
Lucy
Darling - UK Tour Dates. Award-winning comedian magician Lucy
Darling brings her signature charm and mischief to the UK! Carisa
Hendrix, the performer behind the glamorous 1940s-style socialite Lucy
Darling, is finally bringing her show to the UK, Ireland, and Scotland.
Hendrix has been touring the United States and Canada since she first
captured the world’s attention in December 2024 with one viral TikTok
clip.
The clip of her improvisational crowd work skyrocketed to more than 21
million views. Since then, thousands have flocked to theaters across
America to see the award-winning performer and find out what all the
fuss is about. Her shows have sold out in record time, proof that Lucy
Darling’s blend of wit, sweetness and old-Hollywood glamour has struck a
chord with audiences.
After thousands of internet comments and messages begging Hendrix to
bring Lucy Darling across the pond, a UK and Ireland tour was finally
announced. 'Simply Darling' is a touring variety show designed to give
the fans even more of what they have been craving; the perfect chance to
take a break from reality and indulge in the mischief, sarcasm, and
wonder that we all deserve. The show is part variety spectacular, part
cabaret, part magic show, but always exceptionally darling. April 2026,
see
www.aegpresents.co.uk.
14.2.26
Alex
McAleer: Mind Reader - UK Tour Dates. From the promoter: Alex
McAleer isn’t psychic or supernatural, but he has an uncanny ability to
apparently tap into his audience’s minds and read their thoughts at
will. After more than a decade wowing audiences across the UK and North
America — including touring the USA with Champions of Magic, sold-out
solo shows, West End appearances, and TV spots on Blue Peter and Good
Morning Britain — he has built a reputation as one of the most
entertaining and charismatic mentalists working today.
In this unforgettable live show, Alex blends laugh-out-loud humour with jaw-dropping psychological feats, turning the audience into the stars of the evening. Smart, playful, and astonishing — don’t miss your chance to see Alex McAleer live.
“Mind-blowing” Broadway World
“McAleer has made a career of those you’ve-got-to-be-kidding-me
moments” Boston Globe
“A master of the mind… cheeky and witty, working the crowd like a
conductor” ★★★★ The West Australian
February
21 Feb — Chelmsford Theatre Studio
25 Feb — Alexander Centre, Faversham
26 Feb — Jacksons Lane, London
March
11 Mar — South Hill Park
13 Mar — The Beehive, Honiton
19 Mar — East Riding Theatre
26 Mar — Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford
28 Mar — The Spring, Havant
April
02 Apr — Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch
10 Apr — Macready Theatre, Rugby
12 Apr — The Quarterhouse, Folkestone
May
01 May — Beggars Theatre, Millom, Cumbria
02 May — Riverhead Theatre, Louth
07 May — The Old Woollen, nr Leeds
08 May — The Place, Bedford
09 May — Hempstead Park
14 May — Kenton Theatre, Henley
15 May — Harlow Playhouse Studio (Theatre 2)
21 May — Wilton’s Music Hall
22 May — Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead
23 May — Lighthouse, Poole
29 May — The Berry Theatre, Hedge End
30 May — The Exchange, Twickenham
Alex McAleer - Mind Reader Extraordinaire. Book via: www.alexmcaleer.com/links. 14.2.26
The
Divine Divide - only available in the UK from Merlins! We've just
received the latest release from Retro Rocketeers,
The Divine Divide, a cut and restored ribbon effect created to be
the ultimate version of this classic plot. The ribbon is first fully
inspected, then signed on both ends. It is clearly threaded through the
prop in full view, and the signatures remain visible throughout the
entire effect.
The ribbon is then cut, and in the same moment, it is visually
restored—no pauses, no covers, no off-beat handling. There are no doors,
no hidden panels, and no moments where the ribbon is concealed, making
the handling feel completely open, fair, and impossible!
Despite how strong it looks,
The Divine Divide is fun and easy to perform, making it perfect for
both close-up and parlour performers. The Divine Divide is available in
two themed designs: 1. Celtic Design – Inspired by ancient symbols of
fate, unity, and the threads that bind all things. 2. Egyptian Design –
Inspired by myths of life, death, and rebirth, where nothing is ever
truly lost.
Each version includes a themed performance script, while still allowing
you the freedom to create your own presentation. This is another amazing
piece of magic from Anthony at Retro Rocketeers. Only available in the
UK from
Merlins, order yours now!
14.2.26
The
Sleightly Twisted Podcast. What It’s Really Like to Run a Magic Shop?
Episode: 001. Hosted by Alan The Sleight Co and Luke from Twisted
Minds Magic: Welcome to The Sleightly Twisted Podcast, where two
independent magic shop owners talk openly about the art, business, and
culture of magic. From behind-the-counter stories and industry debates
to candid takes on social media, brick-and-mortar retail, and the future
of magic, we pull back the curtain on what it really means to run a
magic shop today.
Expect honest conversations, playful banter, and insights you won’t hear
anywhere else — whether you’re a working magician, a collector, a
hobbyist, or just curious about how the magic world really works. We’re
building a community around cards, tricks, creativity, and the shared
love of the impossible. Pull up a chair... the shop is open.
www.youtube.com/@TheSleightlyTwistedPodcast.
14.2.26
The
Leveridge Legacy Collection - New For February 2026. We reach the
half way point in the schedule of classic Mark Leveridge physical
product re-releases. Here are the new items still available: Spot The
Difference. This is a wonderfully entertaining Jumbo ‘Find The Lady’
type routine which incorporates an audience-involving presentation and a
method that is subtle and straightforward to do. Perfect for a parlour
or stand up show, you receive all the necessary Jumbo cards, the window
envelope and illustrated instructions which take you stage by stage
through the handling and presentation. £35.00.
The Invisible Coin. A small coin is held at the fingertips and a selected card is passed momentarily in front of it causing it to instantly become invisible! The card is displayed freely both sides and the hands are genuinely empty. Then passing the card across the fingers again causes the coin to magically reappear. Comes with the special gimmicked card and a link to detailed online video instructions. £20.00. For more info and dems of these and all the other Leveridge Legacy products still available, go to www.markleveridge.co.uk/the-leveridge-legacy-collection. 14.2.26
The MagicWeek Video Archive.
A new magic clip or show every week! This week, Paul Daniels, Debbie McGee
and Graham Fletcher on 'The Paul Daniels Magic Show' from 2nd November 1985. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
14.2.26
Peter
& Harry Nardi
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 "Peter & Harry Nardi talk
The 1914 Acquisition"
YouTube.
14.2.26
Stranded
with a Stranger: Mark Piazza.
"Eight tricks, one book, one banishment and a lifetime of lessons packed
into a single, fast-moving session with performer and author Mark Piazza. We
trace his arc from 25 years of kids’ shows to a sharp mentalism repertoire,
pulling apart the choices that still earn repeat bookings and real reactions.
From the tactile honesty of Hundy 500 to the elastic power of propless tools
like Quinta, Mark shows how method serves meaning when the script and structure
are tuned for impact."
YouTube. Brought to you by
www.alakazam.co.uk.
14.2.26
Magic
Martin - Showzam, Blackpool, 18th February. Magic Martin writes: I’m
a Cornwall-based family entertainer bringing laughter, amazement, and
jaw-dropping magic to theatres, holiday parks, and birthday parties
across the South West. After being crowned UK Family Entertainer of the
Year at the world-famous Blackpool Magic Convention, I’m thrilled to be
returning to Blackpool to perform live at Viva Blackpool as part of the
Magic & Circus Festival (Showzam!) on 18th February! The show is a
colourful display of grand illusions, magic effects all set to a
backdrop of powerful music for all ages to enjoy, with plenty of
audience participation throughout for audience members to become the
stars of the show! Martin is a seasoned pro performing all over the UK
at holiday centres, hotels and theatres and knows what an family
audience wants when it comes to Family Magical Entertainment. Wednesday
18th February at 1pm at Viva!, 3 Church Street, Blackpool part of the
Showzam! Magic & Circus Festival.
14.2.26
The
Dark Room - Viva Blackpool, 18th February. Henri White writes:
Wednesday 18th of February Viva Blackpool (2 minutes walk from Blackpool
Winter Gardens) will have John Robertson’s “The Dark Room” on in the
evening. A cult comedy hit from Edinburgh Fringe. A perfect “pre
convention” warm up. “A hilarious, participatory cult classic” Neil
Patrick Harris. See
www.thejohnrobertson.com and
www.vivablackpool.com/events.
14.2.26
Paul Daniels at The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club. Series 4, Episode 1. Gene Pitney performs Half Heaven Half Heartache and Blue Angel. Plus, there's performances from Paul Daniels, Royal Polynesian Revue and Rivendell. From 1975. Thursday 19th February on Talking Pictures TV. See TV Magic for details. 14.2.26
Put
your cards away, it's Valentine's Day! For all the lovers out there
(that'll be about 3% of the magic population) here's the brilliant
Bruno Mars from his new album The Romantic, which comes out in just a
couple of weeks
YouTube. DT.
14.2.26
"Derren
Brown brings 11th show to Liverpool"
Click Here • "Neon Museum lining up tributes for
legendary Las Vegas duo"
Click Here • "Psychology needs a... fascination revolution"
Click Here • "'I went from redundancy to award-winning magician'"
Click Here • "Teesside magician who 'pickpocketed' Mike Tyson now
makes son levitate"
Click Here • "We're living in a golden age of close-up magic"
[subscription]
Click Here • "I Traveled 800 Miles To Eat Breakfast, Lunch, And
Pizza At Criss Angel’s Breakfast, Lunch, And Pizza"
Click Here • Many thanks for all your news, have fun in Blackpool, see you next week, Duncan.
14.2.26