Number
1349 - Saturday 2nd May 2026
The
Magic Circle History Day 2026. Saturday, 6th June, sees the return
of The Magic Circle History Day, bringing together magic historians,
collectors and enthusiasts for a full day devoted to the heritage of
conjuring. Held at The Magic Circle Headquarters, 12 Stephenson Way,
London NW1 2HD, the annual event will feature a programme of talks
exploring a wide range of magical history and curiosities, from the
history and methods of the Fast and Loose con to Benevol’s
Mind-Reading Head.
Among this year’s speakers are Salvatore Rapacciuolo (Italy) presenting
new and historic insights into the Fast and Loose con; David Wood
OBE, recipient of a 2026 Olivier Industry Recognition Award; author
James Green, sharing the story of an inventive magician persecuted by
the Nazis; and Paul Kieve, returning with a talk on magic posters.
Additional speakers and presentations will be announced.
The day also includes a sit-down buffet lunch at the Wesley Hotel,
refreshments throughout, and an end-of-day sale of antiquarian magic
books and ephemera. Admission is £60, or £55 for Magic Circle members
and apprentices, inclusive of all talks, refreshments and lunch. Doors
open at 9.30am. Tickets are available now from The Magic Circle Shop:
tmcshop.squarespace.com.
2.5.26
Michael Vincent's
New 'Anatomy of Strong
Magic' Lecture - South London Magic Society, 12th May. Simon
Rosselli writes:
Michael shares his life time of knowledge and sublime expertise in this
thrilling conversation of our craft. His magic looks and feels magical.
This is the whole point; if the audience doesn't feel that magic is real, then
what is the point? In this conversation, Michael reveals secrets that
were passed on to him by his mentors: Alan Alan, Cy Endfield, Slydini,
Dai Vernon, Harry Lorayne and Darwin Ortiz.
Featuring many of Michael's favourite routines. Don't Miss this event; you will leave feeling inspired to become a better magician. Doors open at 7.30pm. £10 for guests - which can go towards the joining fee if you decide to join. Lecture 8pm-10pm at South London Magic Society, West Beck Club, 1 Sidney Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 4PX. 2.5.26
The
MagicWeek Video Archive. This
week, as David Copperfield's 25-year residency at the MGM Grand in Las
Vegas comes to a close, we feature once again "The Magic of David Copperfield II" from 1979.
Now, nearly 50 years old, this show
really demonstrates just why David Copperfield made such a huge impression,
so early on in his career. See
The MagicWeek Video Archive. To catch up with more from The
MagicWeek Video Archive
Click Here.
2.5.26
Copperfield
- The Final MGM Grand Show - Special Report from The Magicians' Podcast
Network:
www.spotify.com.
2.5.26
Chris
Kenner - 25 years at the MGM Grand. David Copperfield's Executive
Producer Chris Kenner joins Richard for an exclusive interview about the
end of their historic 25 year run at The MGM Grand this week. Chris
addresses head on the rumours regarding whether it is retirement looming
or reinvention. This is an absolute must listen podcast for any
Copperfield fan! Become a paid subscriber now and gain access to their
full archives as well!
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/MagiciansPodcast
Subscribe on Spotify:
www.spotify.com
Subscribe on Apple:
www.podcasts.apple.com.
2.5.26
My
Mind Rocks - May 2026. We’re still riding the wave from last week’s
incredible 2-hour lecture with Drew Backenstoss, where he shared
unreleased material alongside a series of powerful creative frameworks
designed to maximise performance.
Looking ahead to May, we’re shifting into something a little different.
Eric Dittelman joins us for a live workshop exploring improv and comedy
in mentalism - an area he specialises in, yet one that’s rarely
discussed in depth. We’ll also be welcoming Sven Bosch, who will be
showcasing his new interactive project, High Score - a video game
experience designed specifically for mentalists and magicians. It’s
shaping up to be a strong month inside MMR - you’d be mad not to join
us. www.mymind.rocks.
2.5.26
Britain's Got Talent. Magic Catch-up from the past 7 days:
"Mentalist Fraser Penman dives deep into Amanda's childhood memories! Semi-Finals BGT 2026" YouTube.
"Every Magic Audition on Britain's Got Talent 2026" YouTube. 2.5.26
News from The Magic Circle.
Illusionists and Escapologists Amethyst (Danny Hunt and Stephanie
Clarke) have just been appointed official ambassadors of The Magic
Circle by its President, Marvin Berglas. Renowned for their breathtaking
illusions and escape performances, Danny and Stephanie now join an elite
group tasked with promoting and preserving the art of magic on a global
stage.
Founded in 1905, The Magic Circle is the world’s most prestigious
society for magicians, with a legacy rooted in excellence, tradition,
and innovation. Its first president, the legendary David Devant,
famously championed the motto: “All done by kindness.” As ambassadors,
the duo will represent the organisation’s mission to inspire audiences
and uphold the highest standards of magical performance.
Stephanie Clarke has also achieved a significant personal milestone,
becoming one of only around 80 female members of the society worldwide.
She has recently been promoted to Associate of the Inner Magic Circle
(AIMC) with Silver Star, a prestigious recognition awarded for
exceptional performance ability.
Stephanie said:
“I’m incredibly proud to represent the art of magic and passionate about
inspiring more women and young people to get involved. After our shows,
we meet so many children, and it’s amazing to see so many young girls
feeling inspired to step into magic themselves.”
Danny Hunt added:
“It is truly an honour to be appointed as an ambassador for The Magic
Circle. As a child, I could never have imagined becoming a member—let
alone representing the world’s most respected magic society.”
President Marvin Berglas said:
“Award winning illusionists Amethyst, Danny Hunt and Stephanie Clarke,
have done so much for magic and embody the forward thinking, spirit, and
positivity we work towards to promote excellence in magic. They richly
deserve the special honour to be made Ambassadors of The Magic Circle.
They are special people and I know they will continue to make us proud”.
Currently touring theatres across the UK, Amethyst continue to captivate
audiences with their hit productions, The Secret, an interactive magic
show and Top Secret: The Magic of Science an educational science and
magic show for the whole family.
For more information about Danny and Stephanie visit
www.amethystmagic.com.
To view tour dates visit
www.topsecretlive.com and to learn more about The Magic Circle seewww.themagiccircle.com.
2.5.26
Jester
Styles Lecture - Nottingham Guild of Magicians, 7th May. Andrew
Hickling writes: Jester Styles will be lecturing for the Nottingham
Guild of Magicians on Thursday 7th May at 7pm. The venue is The Ponds
Hill Lane Community Centre, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 8DR. Jester Styles
performs at over 100 weddings every year, alongside high-end corporate
events and celebrity parties. In this lecture, Jester shares a
practical, no-nonsense look at performing professionally with what
works, and what doesn't. Visiting magicians are welcome to attend by
either purchasing a ticket online in advance
Click Here or by paying £10 on the door.
2.5.26
Merlins
Magic Auction at the shop - Sunday 17th May. Come along and join us
for a fun day and pick up plenty of magical bargains. Doors open at 10am
for viewing, Auction starts at 10.30am, with over 200 items and more to
come. Only £5.00 entry - must be booked in advance,
Click Here. If you would like to enter a lot, please call in the
shop to collect a Lot form or email
merlins@btconnect.com. All
lots and 3 copies of the lot form must be returned by the 11th May.
Spaces are limited and must be booked,
Click Here. Merlins, 15 The Springs, Wakefield WF1 1QE 01924 339933.
2.5.26
Graham
Hey's Comedy Magic Lecture - The Order of the Magi, Manchester, 12th May. Jonathan
Royle writes: The Order of the Magi in Manchester
is delighted to welcome Graham on Tuesday 12th May for an entertaining
and insightful lecture on comedy magic and mentalism. Graham’s
background is firmly rooted in comedy. During the 1990s, he worked as a
writer for the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, contributing to shows featuring
well known names such as Russ Abbott, Hale & Pace, and Griff
Rhys Jones. Encouraged to try stand up himself, he began incorporating
magic into his act, creating a distinctive blend of comedy and magical
performance that has served him throughout his career.
He later became co owner of Magicseen magazine, helping to shape one of
the UK’s most recognised magic publications over a 20 year period.
Alongside this, he performed his comedy mentalism on major cruise lines
including Princess and Celebrity, refining material that is both
practical and highly entertaining.
Graham’s creations have been used by a wide range of professional
performers, including Mike McClean, Chris Dugdale, Chris Cox, Rafael
Benatar, Sean Alexander, and Mel Mellers, among many others. His
material is known for its strong visual impact, commercial appeal, and
straightforward handling.
This lecture will feature a range of visual gags, close-up and stand-up
magic, along with Graham’s trademark “funmentalism”. Expect practical
ideas, workable routines, and plenty of thinking that can be applied
directly to real world performance.
Advance tickets just £10
Click Here or £15 on night, or join the Magi today
www.orderofthemagi.co.uk/membership and benefit from this and
another twelve more lectures this year, along with competitions
and many social events.
2.5.26
Lee Alex Lecture
'Better the Devil You
Know!' - Zodiac Magical Society, London, 13th May. Adrian King writes: On
Wednesday, 13th May, the Zodiac Magical Society in London will be
hosting Lee Alex's lecture, Better the Devil You Know! An insight into the
history, development, utilisation, versatility and multiple guises of
the often overlooked and unassuming pocket square, commonly known as "The
Devil's Hank", including effects of all genres from close-up to stage to
mentalism.
This event will take place from 8pm - 10pm in our club room located just
a five-minute walk from Northfields tube station on the Piccadilly Line.
Please email membership@zodiacmagicalsociety.co.uk to let us know that
you are coming as soon as possible, as we have limited places. There is
usually a £10 charge for visitors, but see
www.zodiacmagicalsociety.co.uk/pages/special-offer regarding one
month's free access.
2.5.26
John
Hotowka Lecture - Modern Mystic League, Blackburn, 10th May. Brian
Lead writes: John Hotowka lectures at the Modern Mystic League
(Blackburn) on Sunday, 10th May, at 2pm. There are very few magicians,
if any, who do not know John Hotowka – either personally or by
reputation. He is in great demand, having been performing magic
professionally since 1981 (that’s 45 years of experience!), and
entertaining corporate audiences since 1989. He was one of the first to
present close-up restaurant magic in Europe, and has performed from
Manchester to Milan, from Derby to Dubai, from Hull to Hamburg and from
York to New York. He delivered the opening ‘keynote’ lecture at the
recent Northern Magic Circle Platinum Convention, and performed in the
gala show – both to great acclaim. Now, you can catch up with him at the
MML. The venue is Kingsway Court, Greenhurst Place, Blackburn BB2 1NA.
All magicians welcome for a donation – with refreshments included!
2.5.26
Roddy
McGhie Lecture - Surrey Society of Magicians, 7th May. Paul Dickson
writes: Roddy McGhie is a Glasgow-based close-up magician and creator,
known for original, inventive magic and widely released effects. He is
also one of the founders of Trick Trick Boom, a production company
focused on offbeat, original magic.
What to Expect: Roddy’s released work spans clever close-up plots and
unusual methods, with a reputation for strong, practical ideas that
create memorable moments. If you enjoy fresh thinking and you like
seeing how creators approach plots, props, and methods from a slightly
different angle, this should be a very rewarding evening.
Thursday 7th May at The Surrey Society of Magicians, Nomad Theatre,
Bishopsmead Parade, East Horsley, Leatherhead KT24 6RT. Doors 7.30pm.
Lecture 8pm. 15-minute interval. Finish 10pm. Visiting Magicians are
welcome with a £10 fee, payable on the door.
www.surreysocietyofmagicians.co.uk.
2.5.26
May
2026 Leveridge Legacy Collection Releases. Here are the three latest
physical products to be added to the Collection. Limited supplies only.
1. Risky Business. A smooth close up version of Just Chance using
three envelopes, one of which contains a banknote and which proves
impossible to track! Comes with three letter size Leveridge Envelopes
which will enable you to produce, vanish or in some cases switch,
whatever is slipped inside. £30.00.
2. Obliteration. A £2 is either borrowed or a coin of the
performer’s is examined. In quick order, first the tail side and then
the head side vanish from the coin leaving it completely smooth! Taking
a second regular coin, the head and tail are magically ‘cloned’ back
onto the blank coin which can be returned or examined again. Comes with
coin gimmicks. £40.00.
3. Perfect Intuition. A spectator selects any one of a dozen
envelopes all of which have a business card inside. She writes the name
of one of the other people present on the back of the business card in
her selected envelope and after returning it, mixes this envelope up
with five others. The helper now indicates, in any order she pleases, six
people round the table and an envelope from the shuffled pile is handed
to each. At any stage that she likes, she requests that the next
envelope be given to the person whose name she has written on the card.
Despite the fact that she selected any business card, that she shuffled
the envelopes herself and that she decides which spectator gets which
envelope, somehow her named person ends up with the envelope containing
the business card with their name on! Straightforward to do, this is a
strong routine in which the spectator appears to do just about
everything! £25.00
For further information and dems of these and all the other products
still available go to
www.markleveridge.co.uk/the-leveridge-legacy-collection.
2.5.26
Damien
O'Brien's Desert Island Tricks.
"A great magic set isn’t about having the fanciest props. It’s about having
material that survives real-world conditions: bad lighting, tough angles, quiet
tables, camera pressure, and the sudden moment when someone says, “Do
something,” and you’re already empty-handed. Damien O’Brien knows that reality
first-hand, from reaching the finals on Britain’s Got Talent during the pandemic
to performing close-up in immersive theatre at the Magician’s Table..."
YouTube. Brought to you by
www.alakazam.co.uk.
2.5.26
Cardopolis
51 has just been published. It features Pyramix, a novel card effect created
by Max Maven and Jon Racherbaumer. The Four-Bit Machine is a self-working effect
in which four puzzle pieces reveal a chosen number. There’s a new version of
Paul Curry’s famous Touch effect. Two cards are freely chosen from a face-up
deck, and the magician has predicted both. And there’s an app for calculating a
personalised Birthday Magic Square. Finally, an invitation to solve a mystery.
Who is the card manipulator in a 1995 television beer ad? Cardopolis is a
monthly newsletter dedicated to the history and craft of card magic. It’s
available at
cardopolis.substack.com.
2.5.26
Chris
Tenant Lecture - South Downs Magicians, 6th May.
Des King writes: Chris Tenant will be lecturing at
South
Downs Magicians on Wednesday, 6th May.
Chris’s brand-new lecture covers his current working material for
close-up, stage and parlour. There will be material on cards, coins,
mentalism, along with some fun new techniques. Chris has been a headline
performer all over Europe, performed in all manner of environments from
Corporate's for 5,000, to Night Clubs for 5. Chris has
also created and published several effects over the years and has been a consultant
for theatre and T.V.
Visiting magicians are welcome to attend for a fee of £8.00. The meeting starts
at 8pm and is held at The Parish Hall, High Street, Handcross, near Crawley,
West Sussex RH17 6BJ.
2.5.26
Jim
Craig Memorial Table Top Magic Sale in Perth on Wednesday, 6th May.
Adrian Harris writes: The Jim Craig Memorial Table Top Sale takes place this
coming Wednesday, 6th May, in the Perth & District Ex-Servicemen’s Club,
Brown Street, Perth commencing at 7.30pm. Unusually, this will be a
totally free night to attend for both Sellers and visiting magicians from other clubs. With
all the recent increases in day to day living costs, not to mention the
general high cost of Magic today, this will be a great opportunity to
get some new magic to add to your repertoire, new books to add to your
library, or to pick up that intriguing item which catches the eye, all at
bargain prices. There is still very limited space available if someone
wants to take a table, please contact me immediately
Adrian.Harris@Blueyonder.co.uk.
Jim Craig was a founder member of Kircaldy Magic Circle which for many years
organised an Annual Magic Auction where he acted as Chief Auctioneer. It was not
unusual for in excess of £3,000 to change hands at these events back in the
1960’s, a considerably sum in those days confirming the status of the Auction in
the Scottish Magic scene. The Perth club hopes that many of Jim’s magical
friends will join us for what we hope is a fun night in his memory.
2.5.26
The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club. The National Club Acts Awards and the Final of Miss Nightclub 1977. Featuring the National Club Acts Awards, with contenders including Cannon and Ball, Mark Channing, Paul Daniels and Pete Price, and the final of Miss Nightclub 1977. Thursday 7th May on Talking Pictures TV. See TV Magic for details. 2.5.26
Tommy Cooper: 30 Greatest Moments. "A two-hour celebration of one of the most-loved British comedians of all time, a man recognised by his red fez alone who made a career out of his apparent lack of conjuring skills. The programme traces Tommy's career." Sunday 10th May on 5Select. See TV Magic for details. 2.5.26
"Stephen
Mulhern surprises Ben and Cat with a Magic Trick. This Morning"
YouTube • "Magician Stephen Mulhern Taking Up Summer Residency on
Iona"
Click Here • "Review: Holmes and Watson and the Curious Case of the
Masked Magician at Theatre by the Lake"
Click Here • "Magician gets Magic Circle's most prestigious award"
Click Here • "Performer describes locking eyes with Trump as they
ducked for cover during shooting"
Click Here • "What booking a magician for the White House
Correspondents’ dinner reveals about the state of press"
Click Here • "Meet the Isleworth magician captivating audiences
across Bucks"
Click Here • "Uri Geller, David Blaine and Michael Jackson: The day
that shook Exeter"
Click Here • "Magician Who Owns Hollywood’s Magic Castle Buys Bob
Barker’s Former L.A. Home for $6.235M"
Click Here • That's all for this week. Your UK magic news is always
welcomed, see you next week, Duncan.
2.5.26