Number
1347 - Saturday 18th April 2026
The
Magic Circle Convention - 5th July at The Magic Circle HQ, London.
We are delighted to announce that the sensational Sonia Benito will be
lecturing and performing live at The Magic Circle Convention 2026. One
of the most exciting voices in modern magic, Sonia brings a striking
fusion of elegance, innovation, and contemporary style to everything she
creates. Originally from Spain and now based in London, she has built an
extraordinary career working with global brands including Adidas, MAC
Cosmetics, Nespresso, Samsung, Nike, and Amazon Music, crafting bespoke
magic at the cutting edge of fashion and visual storytelling.
What truly sets Sonia apart is her rare fusion of disciplines. Alongside
her work as a magician, she is an accomplished commercial dancer, having
performed with Rihanna, Pharrell Williams, and Raye. The result? A
signature style where precision magic meets fluid, expressive movement
creating performances that are immersive, modern, and completely
unforgettable. Sonia will reveal the three core pillars behind her
creative approach in her exclusive convention lecture:
• Camera Presence Feel confident, natural, and compelling on
camera.
• Choreographed Movement Structure magic through intentional,
expressive motion.
• Creative Development Build original material that feels
authentic and distinctive.
This is a rare opportunity to gain real-world insight into modern
performance, ideal for magicians looking to elevate their work both on
stage and screen.
Gala Show hosted by Brian Conley. Following his West End success as Doc
Brown in Back to the Future and appearances in eight Royal Variety
Shows, Brian brings outstanding star quality to this year’s event. He
will also present a special lecture on comedy and stage presentation,
sharing invaluable insight into timing, character, and commanding the
stage.
Premium ticket holders will receive an exclusive Magic Circle gift: A
luxury branded wooden box including two engraved Magic Circle wine
glasses and a selection of elegant wine accessories, plus the
President’s Drinks Reception and premium seating for both lectures and
the Gala Show. This year holds special significance as we proudly
dedicate the day to the legendary Wayne Dobson, on what would have been
his birthday. A true icon of British magic, Wayne’s influence, humour,
and brilliance continue to inspire performers around the world. Tickets
now on sale!
www.tickettailor.com/events/themagiccircle.
18.4.26
Legends
of The Magic Circle: An Evening with Pat Fallon - 20th April,
The Magic Circle HQ, London. The Magic Circle write: Prepare for an
exceptional night as we honour the remarkable career of Pat Fallon The
Irish Magician with an International Reputation. A Member of The Inner
Magic Circle with Gold Star, Pat has enjoyed a celebrated career
spanning over a hundred television appearances, multiple international
tours, and decades at the forefront of the Irish entertainment scene. He
is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and versatile
magicians performing today.
Hosted by Quentin Reynolds, this special Legends evening will take you on a journey through Pat’s extraordinary life in magic. The night will feature captivating stories, rare footage, and memorable moments that showcase his signature style, showmanship, and world-class magical expertise. Monday 20th April from 7.30pm - 9.30pm. Entrance is free for Members and Associates of The Magic Circle. Non-members may attend for a charge of £20, but please contact Michael J Fitch in advance to reserve a place: michael@themagiccircle.co.uk. 18.4.26
Britain's Got Talent. Magic Catch-up from the past 7 days:
"Paul Daniels' Nephew Shocks KSI! Auditions BGT 2026" YouTube.
"Lee Thompson is a 'Modern Day Artful Dodger'! Auditions BGT 2026 YouTube. 18.4.26
Tommy
Cooper Have I Got Time For More? Starring Phil Hoyles - UK Tour. From the promoter: Tommy Cooper, one of the greatest ever comedians,
is back! Expertly performed by Phil Hoyles - the UK's Number One impersonator -
he brings you all of the 'tom'-foolery, jokes, songs, laughs, magic, failed
magic, and energy, that the original funnyman presented many years ago!
Renowned theatre magazine "The Stage" describes Phil's portrayal as "a carbon
copy in look, voice and humour" and "as near to the genuine article as you can
get"! He's got the height, the laugh and the Fez - all we need is you! Come
along and join us for a trip down memory lane, a jolly good laugh and an evening
of belly-aching nostalgia.
This show is also being produced by Cattle Productions Ltd. who have a
distinguished reputation in the revival and recreation of classic comedy,
ensuring that these true icons are never forgotten. We are also supporting a
variety of local charities from the proceeds. Tour Dates:
www.brandnewtommycooper.co.uk.
18.4.26
Hullusion
2026. We’re pleased to announce the first
lecturer for Hullusion 2026 is the incredible Peter Turner!
Known for his unique thinking, Peter has become one of the most exciting
mentalists in the world. He is a consultant for the best magicians and
mentalists on the planet and has released many best selling items, ideas
and
books.
Step into a world of wonder and illusion at
Hullusion, Hull’s very own magic convention, where mystery, marvel, and magic
come together for an unforgettable experience!
Join fellow magicians, enthusiasts, and curious minds for a day filled with
enchantment. Whether you’re a seasoned performer, an amateur magician, or simply
a fan of the art, Hullusion has something for everyone.
● Dealers Hall: Browse a wide range of magical wares from top dealers—props,
gimmicks, books, and more. Discover the latest effects or that hard-to-find
classic.
● Lectures & Demos: Learn from some of the best minds in magic as they share
their secrets, techniques, and insights into the craft. From close-up to stage
magic, there’s inspiration for every style.
● Catch Up & Connect: Reunite with old friends and forge new connections with
like-minded magicians. Hullusion is as much about community as it is about
magic.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this spellbinding gathering. Whether you’re
buying, learning, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Hullusion promises to be a
magical day to remember.
Welcome to Hullusion – Where Magic Comes to Life! The Kenilworth Suite, The
Goodfellowship, Cottingham Road, Hull HU5 4AT on Sunday 11th October from 9.30am
to 6.30pm. See
www.ticketebo.co.uk.
18.4.26
The MagicWeek Video Archive.
A new magic clip or show every week! This week, earliest known footage of
Tommy Cooper discovered. Reported by the BBC in April, 2001. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video
Archive
Click Here.
18.4.26
West
End Magic - Tour Dates. As London’s longest-running theatre magic
show, we’ve become a West End staple. Beyond our permanent residency,
we’re now touring venues across the UK. Each performance showcases
top-tier magic and variety acts, featuring multi-award winner Oliver
Tabor, whose mind-bending illusions will make you question the very
nature of reality. Each show also contains an ever-changing line up of
amazing acts selected from some of the most exciting names in magic and
variety in the UK. Suitable for ages 5+. See
www.westendmagic.com for upcoming dates.
18.4.26
Alex
McAleer – Mind Reader at Wilton’s Music Hall, London, 21st May. Alex
McAleer brings his solo show Mind Reader to Wilton’s Music Hall,
London, on 21st May. Known for his work with Champions of Magic,
McAleer has spent over a decade touring internationally and appearing on
television in the UK, US and Australia.
In this interactive theatre show, audience members become the focus as
Alex apparently reveals thoughts and uncovers personal details with
uncanny accuracy. Blending psychological mentalism with sharp humour,
Mind Reader offers a modern take on mentalism designed for a live
theatre audience.
"Mind-blowing" Broadway World. "A must see show" Richard
Jones.
Book here: www.wiltons.org.uk. Following 50+ performances across 2025–2026, the show continues its UK tour throughout May, including dates in Millom, Louth, Leeds, Bedford, Benenden, Henley-on-Thames, Harlow, Hemel Hempstead, Poole, Rugby, Hedge End and Twickenham. Further details and tickets: www.alexmcaleer.com/tour. 18.4.26
End
of Season Two Sum Up With Peter Nardi. "355 different tricks. Only six
people sharing the single most popular pick. And a top item that only three
guests chose. Season two ends with the kind of recap that every magician,
mentalist, and close-up worker secretly loves: the real numbers, the real
patterns, and the real reasons behind what performers actually keep in their
pockets."
YouTube. Brought to you by
www.alakazam.co.uk.
18.4.26
Steve
Gore's 'Classics Reimagined' Lecture - Coventry Magic Circle, 21st April
& Derby Magic Circle, 22nd April. From the organisers: Steve Gore
is presenting his brand new lecture, Classics Reimagined for the
Coventry Magic Circle on Tuesday 21st April and then the Derby Magic
Circle on Wednesday 22nd April!
It will include all his latest effects including ‘The Famous Five’, ‘The
Casino Con’, relaunched with Alakazam. The No 1 best seller effect on
Penguin Magic… ‘Flight Deck’ & ‘Together Forever’ also released with
Penguin. Plus his ‘Book to the Future’ which was distributed by Murphys!
Plus…there are lots of classic plots that have been reimagined that you
can make yourself using items you probably already own. There really is
something for everyone from close-uppers to stage and family
entertainers, and even a couple for the mentalists! Everything is
explained in full details.
He is officially known as "The Happiest Magician on the Planet!'...
according to Google… and is a truly versatile magical entertainer who
regularly performs magic of all types and has been performing magic
professionally for over thirty five years. Steve is a Past President of
the Northern Magic Circle, two time President for the Bradford Magic
Circle, and is also a proud member of The Magic Circle!
Coventry Magic Circle. Visiting magicians are welcome as always with the
usual visitors fee (£10). Ex Servicemans Club, Rye Piece, Ringway,
Bedworth CV12 8JH Tuesday 21st April 8pm.
Derby Magic Circle. Visiting magicians are welcome as always with the
usual visitors fee (£10). Memorial Hall, Brookside Road, Breadsall,
Derby DE21 5LF. For SatNav, enter 43 Brookside Road. Wednesday 22nd
April at 8pm.
18.4.26
Congratulations
to Richard Pinner winner of the Zodiac Magical Society's Birthday Cup
Stage Competition. The club writes: Peter Callaghan came second, and
Mick Edwards third. Massively oversubscribed, the competition final
pitted nine excellent acts against each other, celebrating the London
magic club's 80th birthday. The acts were varied and included mentalism,
cards, ropes, fork bending and classics of magic... as well as a darts
divination. Although this is Richard Pinner's sixth victory in this
competition, he is still trailing his father Peter Pinner, who won the
title an incredible 10 times.
Christian Grace and four lay judges scored the competitors. The weekly
magic club has six regular competitions, with other informal challenges
held as well. Join the Zodiac now for your chance to enter the next
competition. "You too could be an award-winning magician," said Zodiac
President William Spencer. "Taking part is a brilliant experience. Come
and join the fun, and see if you can bag a trophy. We welcome new
members." A new special membership offer gives you one month's free
access - a taster before joining. See
www.zodiacmagicalsociety.co.uk for details.
18.4.26
James
Seabright presents David Alnwick in The Signalman - Wilton's Music Hall,
London, 29th & 30th June & 1st July. An evening of Victorian
illusions and ghost stories with occult illusionist David Alnwick.
Witness spectacular Victorian magic and illusions inspired by the works
of Charles Dickens, followed by a performance of the seminal short story
in which a lone traveller befriends a railway signalman who has a
terrifying tale to tell. David Alnwick is a writer, actor, and magician
with a passion for using magic to tell ghost stories. For over fifteen
years, Alnwick’ s acclaimed shows have toured the Edinburgh Fringe and
theatres throughout the UK receiving rave reviews. See:
www.wiltons.org.uk.
"Captivating… a unique theatrical experience."
www.elverner.co.uk
Praise for previous work: "Inspired… beautifully creepy" The Guardian. "Nerve-shredding for the sold-out crowd" The Scotsman
David can also be seen at the Cheltenham Playhouse as part of the Fringe on Friday 29th May, see www.cheltfringe.ticketsolve.com for full details.. 18.4.26
The
Mark Leveridge Podcast April 2026. Time to sit back and relax for a
45 minute catch up with Mark Leveridge’s audio podcast. This month:
Why you should give your bookers a choice. How to help spectators
remember your name. Nick Mohammed, the multi-tasking entertainer. The
importance of starting a kids’ show correctly. Update on the Leveridge
Legacy Collection. Advice on covering bad angles when working close-up
surrounded. Losing speed of thought when not performing regularly.
Dealing with those who misunderstand what our magic actually is.
Planning the right length of time to stay with each group when table
hopping. There are two ways to listen to this free 45 minute
podcast. You can catch it either from
www.markleveridge.co.uk/podcast-archive, or from
www.markleveridge.podbean.com where you can also sign up to be a
follower and receive each new release automatically.
18.4.26
Tony
Griffith is holding a 'Mini At Home' on Sunday 24th May at his home in
Norton Malreward, Bristol, and writes: During the session I will be
performing some items from my new book More Reflections. I will
also explore and explain some of the amazing, mystifying effects that
can be achieved with the Si Stebbins system. All are easy to do and do
not rely on sleight of hand. There will be a number of non-card items,
plus some stunts and puzzles you can try out.
Why not spend a free Sunday afternoon learning some of the commercial
effects that have served me well during 30 years as a professional
magician, including performances for many companies, lectures in the UK
and overseas, and 100 performances at The Magic Castle, Hollywood. A
Member of The Inner Magic Circle. You are guaranteed to go away with
some items you will be able to perform. Copies of the book and a number
of effects will be available to purchase. 2pm to 5pm. Coffee/Tea and
home-made cakes provided. Spaces are limited so book your place now to
avoid disappointment. Tony Griffith, 13 Church Road, Norton Malreward,
Bristol BS39 4EX
tonygriffith@btinternet.com 01275 835463
www.tonygriffith.co.uk.
[Tony's new book More Reflections is reviewed by Barry Smith this
week,
Click Here]
18.4.26
Magic at the Midland - 26th April, Manchester. Magic at the Midland is Manchester's premier magic show. You will be amazed and amused by the magic of Steve Price, one of the UK's top magicians. Steve will have you laughing and wondering just how he does the impossible, turning ordinary objects into extraordinary memories. Steve is a Gold Star Member of The Inner Magic Circle, and he is widely acknowledged as one of the UK's busiest and most well-established magicians. Come and see the show that has entertained thousands of people across the UK and on cruise ships around the world. 7.30pm at The Midland, 16 Peter Street, Manchester M60 2DS. Book here: www.magicatthemidland.com. 18.4.26
The Houdini Myth - BBC Four. A profile of the 20th-century escapologist, featuring restored archive footage and interviews with historians and illusionists, who recall his impact on audiences. Plus, revealing some of the secrets behind some of Houdini's most famous escapes. Originally broadcast in 2000. Late night Tuesday (1.30am Wednesday 22nd April) on BBC Four. See TV Magic for details. 18.4.26
Geoff Maltby. Sad to report that Geoff Maltby, of Repro Magic, died on Thursday, 9th April. Repro Magic produced 'Club 71' magazine from the early 70s and also ran a magic shop for many many years. He was a real entrepreneur. I remember him coming back from trips to the USA on cruise liners with suitcases loaded up with hundreds of magic books, as he had discovered that there was no real luggage limit on a ship at that time! He was also present at many magic conventions over the years, being one of the UK's main magic dealers. DT. 18.4.26
"The
Magicians Table to move to Waterloo's The Vaults this June"
Click Here • "London's Immersive Magic Experience The Magicians
Table to move to The Vaults in Waterloo"
Click Here • "Zayn Malik’s Reveals His Inner Secrets. Interview With
a Magician"
YouTube • "A Rare 1897 Film Discovered in an Old Trunk in Michigan
Features the First On-Screen Appearance of a Robot"
Click Here • "Nephew of legendary magician walks in his footsteps on
BGT ten years on from last audition — can you tell who?"
Click Here • "Care home resident in Dorset thrilled by magician's
show"
Click Here • "Interview With A Magician"
Click Here • Thanks as always to everyone who contributed news this
week - see you next week, Duncan.
18.4.26