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Steve Short Lecture
The Dennis & Jean Collins Memorial Lecture at The Pentacle Club
Reviewed by Alan Maskell
I have known Steve as a professional performer for more years than I care
to remember - during which time he has been a successful children's entertainer,
(as the original Steve Sausage), corporate magician, co-author of the David
Nixon book, and theatre tour performer, (Henry's cat etc.); more recently
establishing himself in north Lincolnshire as Billy Biscuit in a return to
children's shows, where he presents the full party.
Like his shows, the lecture was split into two halves.. In the first half Steve
went through the games and activities he does, his use of music, (we all enjoyed
the pointing song!), how to keep all the children included all the time by
avoiding elimination games, ideas for prizes, the hows and whys of putting it
all together and his ideas about costume/dress. All his paraphernalia for this
was carried in one small box and Steve showed how quickly he could clear to be
ready for the magic show during the tea.
The second half of the lecture featured the show itself, which also was
contained in one small box, which was certainly a case of 'packs small - plays
big'! Steve went through several routines with lots of audience participation,
including his 'Old MacDonald's Farm', discussing the reasoning behind the
effects and the ways to engage the children, adding tales of his experiences and
influences. Large amongst the latter were former Pentacle Club members the late
Dennis & Jean Collins, (Uncle Dennis and Auntie Jean to so many children),
particularly relevant as this was The Pentacle Club's first Dennis & Jean
Collins memorial lecture.
In all an excellent evening on entertaining children which included magic as
part of the whole with many useful tips on the complete party and, as such,
recommended.
© Alan Maskell, October 2012