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It’s Been Magic
The IBM British Ring Convention, Bournemouth 2014
Reported by Geoffrey Newton PRO
The
78th convention of the IBM British Ring No. 25 took place last week in the
delightful resort of Bournemouth. From Wednesday to Sunday hundreds of delegates
enjoyed the wide spectrum of magic put together by joint organisers Brian Miller
and Keith Cooper. As well as UK residents there were delegates from the USA,
Canada, Ireland, Belgium and Germany taking part. The International President
Shawn Farquhar and International Secretary Don Wiberg were made very welcome as
they mixed and mingled.
A good selection of lectures covered many subjects including comedy, mentalism,
close-up magic and children’s entertainment. The professional video services of
Bob Hamilton brought these to screens each side of the stage so everyone had a
good view. Added to all this workshops on face painting and balloon modelling
were presented.
Then there was what I call the people talks where Eddie Dawes introduced
speakers in the History of Mystery event. An afternoon remembering Pat Page was
presented by his family and Paul Stone gave the Jeffrey Atkins Memorial Lecture.
In the performances we had the Opening Show, Gala of Youth, Late Gala, and Stars
of the Future.
Peter Greenwood took on his regular role as organiser for the Special Venue
Shows and each event was visited by the International President.
The new look Sooty and Friends Magic Show attracted a good sized audience as did
the International Stars of Magic and Variety Show, both being held on the
Saturday and open to the public.
Everyone appeared happy and we return to the south coast next year but back in
Eastbourne from 24th to 27th September 2015. Alan Astra (photo) has now been
installed as the president for 2014 -2015 and looks forward to meeting many of
you during his term of office.
© Geoffrey Newton PRO, October 2014