Number 1346 - Saturday 11th April 2026

 

James Phelan: Showman. Underbelly Boulevard Soho, London, 16th to 28th June. From the promoter: Dare to believe in magic as you're invited to a completely astonishing, five-star night of wonder. Presented by James Phelan - the magician most infamous for jamming the BBC switchboard after correctly predicting the lottery - Showman comes to London for a strictly limited run with brand-new material for summer 2026.

Unmatched, unmissable and unforgettable, this dazzling show will leave you aching with laughter and dizzy with disbelief. Don't miss what The Standard calls "an unforgettable evening we can't stop talking about". Here's to making the impossible… possible. See www.underbellyboulevard.com. See James on Britain's Got Talent tonight!
11.4.26

 

CCC The Midlands Convention - next weekend! Stellar Magic presents CCC The Midlands Convention. 18th & 19th April at Longford House, Watling Street, Cannock WS11 1SJ. See Lord Harri, Eddie McColl, Mark Bennett, Christian Grace, John Hotowka and Steve Dela. But be quick, as numbers are strictly limited! See www.stellarmagicshop.com. 11.4.26

 

Alakazam's Print By Magic! Alakazam's Print By Magic are now officially authorised Bicycle Magic Gaff & Trick Deck printers for the United States Playing Card Company! That means you're getting the real deal, genuine Bicycle stock, professional quality, and total customisation...all from your favourite magic shop, www.alakazam.co.uk. 11.4.26

 

www.practical-magic.com

 

Derren Brown Only Human. The multi award-winning master of mind control and psychological illusion is back and his current tour is now in full swing. Prepare to be astonished! Expect a mind-blowing experience that'll take your breath away... Tickets for Derren's shows always sell out fast, so don't miss out! Only Human is co-written by Derren Brown, Andrew O'Connor and Stephen Long. It is directed by Andrew O'Connor, with set design by Simon Higlett, video design by Simon Wainwright, lighting design by Charlie Morgan Jones and sound design by Beth Duke. Nationwide to July. See www.derrenbrown.co.uk for all dates and venues. (Photo by www.pamelaraith.com). 11.4.26

 

The 'Up North' Magic Convention, April 17th-19th in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. From the organisers: Some of the biggest names in magic assemble for lectures and performances in a weekend of magic, including: Luke Jermay, Marc Oberon, Chris Cross, Professor Richard Wiseman, Craig Petty, Quentin Reynolds and many more.

 

Lectures: Our guest speakers pull back the curtain on professional secrets, teaching high-impact effects and nuanced theory in a setting where everyone has a front-row seat.

Dealers: Browse a curated selection of unique magic and rare treasures. Our dealers area features items you won't find anywhere else, offering you the chance to add some truly enchanted props to your repertoire.

Evening Gala Shows: Experience two nights of world-class magic on Friday and Saturday. Our Gala Shows feature a spectacular lineup of performers, while Sunday is dedicated to exclusive workshops and social sessions to wrap up the weekend.

Full weekend, single day tickets, and gala show only tickets are all available. Come along and support this wonderful little magic convention, which is growing year by year - you'll have a great time! Get your tickets here, for this intimate and friendly magic convention: www.theenchantedrabbit.com/up-north-magic-convention.
11.4.26

 

Britain's Got Talent. Magic Catch-up from the past 7 days:

"Maverick Magicians leave KSI speechless when they guess this..." YouTube. 11.4.26

 

The Magicians Table. From the producers: After months of show-stopping performances, our London Bridge run draws to a close. The final week of The Magicians Table begins soon. Once it ends, this chapter is gone for good. Tickets for our London Bridge venue run until Sunday 26th April. Don't miss your chance, seats are limited. www.magicianstablelive.com. 11.4.26

 

Ulster Society of Magicians Annual Dinner and Ted Oldham Memorial Lecture. James Hobart writes: Just a few more days until the booking deadline of 15th April for the USM Chairman's Dinner at the Ivanhoe Hotel in Belfast, starring Laura London. The Ted Oldham Memorial lecture will take place in the Ivanhoe Hotel at 2.30pm and will be free for USM members attending the dinner, £10 to members not attending the dinner, or non-members attending the dinner, and £25 to non-members not attending the dinner. Dinner and Cabaret Tickets £48.95. Please reserve your place by sending the names of your guest(s) to Paula McIntyre at usm.treasurer@outlook.com or 0771 618 3298 and their choices from the menu available on our website. Contact Paula to arrange your preferred method of payment. For those wishing to stay overnight in Belfast 10% off the overnight rate has been arranged at The Ivanhoe Hotel. Please contact the hotel directly on 028 9081 2240 to book and quote the magic dinner. 11.4.26

 

Masters of Deception - more dates added. From the promoter: New dates have been added after the success of the sold-out Lichfield show, last week. Masters of Deception brings together two of the very best magic and illusion acts in the country, combining their skills and distinctive styles to create a unique, entertaining and spectacular show. Check out www.mastersofdeception.co.uk for the latest tour dates across the UK. 11.4.26

 

The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week! This week, Marc Salem on ITV's This Morning from 2nd April 2002. See The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video Archive Click Here. 11.4.26

 

The Order of the Magi Invites New Members... Jonathan Royle PRO for The Order of the Magi writes: On 8th April Manchester's first magic club for magicians, and England's 3rd oldest magical society, celebrated its 117th Anniversary, having been formed in 1909. The Magi has never missed a meeting or a monthly magazine being published. This next year is set to be its most action and event packed, as outlined at www.substack.com where some recent media articles about the Magi can also be seen. The full programme of lectures, competitions and social evenings has now been announced on the website www.orderofthemagi.co.uk. Membership is just £45 for Town Members and £35 for those outside a 20 mile radius, or you can book individual events in advance at £10 each. Why not join Manchester's oldest magic club at www.orderofthemagi.co.uk/membership. 11.4.26

 

Desert Island Tricks: SOS - Dean Leavy. "If you work gigs for a living, you know the quiet fear: doing the same 'sure-fire' routines until you start performing on autopilot. Jamie sits down again with UK magician Dean Leavy to find out what actually makes a trick worth keeping for life and what gets cut when you're performing at corporate events, weddings, trade shows, and parties week after week..." YouTube. Brought to you by www.alakazam.co.uk.

 

John Hotowka Lecture - The Surrey Society of Magicians, 16th April. Paul Dickson writes: John Hotowka is a Yorkshire-based magician with over 30 years' experience, performing close-up magic for many of the UK's blue chip companies at corporate events, trade shows and conferences. He's also the author of Everything You Wanted To Know About Table Hopping But Were Afraid To Ask. John's lecture — "Close-up that paid off my mortgage" — has been created as a way of giving back to the magic community that helped and inspired him along the way.

 

What to Expect: Routines John still uses today, honed over three decades. The "wrinkles" that make material work in practice - not just the method. The theatre of close-up under fire: working in tough conditions, with all types of audiences. Performances, explanations, and real-world anecdotes from a busy professional career. If you enjoy close-up that's been properly stress-tested - the kind of material you can take straight into restaurants, walkaround, and corporate work - this should be a very practical, experience-packed evening.

 

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. 11.4.26

 

The E-Video Newsletter April/May 2026. Mark Leveridge is pleased to announce that his latest online video presentation is available to all those you are signed up to any of his E-Clubs (Lite, Pro or Elite). Here are the contents included in the latest 38 minute offering. The Teach In – an unusual close up effect called Silk Deception is taught in which silks appear and change colour when trapped inside a container. Pro Peeks – extracted from the Lecture Room section of the E-Club Pro Archive is this explanation of a strong card force. The Table Magician Unplugged – part 17 of the series based on The Table Magician e-book explains how to hold the attention of spectators. The Trick Box – Mark explains an easy mentalism effect called Countdown Prediction which was published in his 3rd Collected Card Magic volume. Web Offers – reduced prices are available on Mark's most popular e-book and on a classic close up effect using a borrowed ring. 60 Seconds To Success – Mark discusses why concentrating on the plot and presentation of magic tricks is better than obsessing over method. To gain access to this E-Video Newsletter sign up for any of the E-Clubs, details for which can be found at www.markleveridge.co.uk. 11.4.26

 

The Illusionist. Sparks fly when childhood sweethearts Eisenheim and Sophie are reunited after 15 years. But Sophie is engaged to volatile royal Crown Prince Leopold and he doesn't take kindly to his fiance's feelings. Director: Neil Burger. Starring Edward Norton (James Freedman Magic Consultant. PG, 2006, 4 Stars). Sunday 19th April on Sky Cinema Drama. See TV Magic for details. 11.4.26

 

News Deadline reminder. Please submit news by Thursday if possible - absolute deadline 12 noon Friday, no exceptions. Many thanks, DT. 11.4.26

 

"Crews knock down fire at the Magic Castle; damage to the iconic Hollywood venue is unclear" Click Here • "Derren Brown: Only Human – Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury" Click Here • "Mind-blowing Derren Brown's Only Human show at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury leaves audiences questioning what reality really is" Click Here • "Preview: The Remarkable Ben Hart, Theatre Royal Winchester" Click Here • "A unique family magic show comes to Milton Keynes" Click Here • That's all for another week. Your UK magic news is always welcomed. See you next week, Duncan. 11.4.26

 

MagicWeek TM magic magazine - Created and Published weekly by Duncan Trillo MIMC © 2000-2026

 


Number 1345 - Saturday 4th April 2026

 

The Alakazam Magic Convention - Saturday 9th May 2026. From the organisers: We've found the perfect venue for our Convention, and we're pulling out all the stops to make this a day to remember with big screen lectures in comfy, tiered,  cinema seats, meaning every seat is a front-row experience. Say goodbye to craning your neck behind a sea of heads! You'll have a perfect view from anywhere in the house at the Ashford Cinema, Elwick Road, Ashford TN23 1AE.

Between lectures, wander into our dealer room where you can browse amazing products, meet other magicians, jam, chat, and relax in our spacious chill-out zone. Grab a drink, snack, or meal, all available right inside the venue at great prices.

Get ready for an electrifying lineup of world-class lectures from Tom Wright, Craig Petty, Marc Spelmann, and for the first time in the UK, David Jonathan, flying in from the USA. Plus an Evening Gala Show as a magical finale to an unforgettable day! starring Marc Spelmann & Magician X, Tom Wright, Mark Bennett and your host for the evening, the one and only, Wayne Goodman.

Our Dealers Showcase is absolutely stacked, giving you the chance to get hands-on with some of the very best in magic: Alakazam Magic, The 1914, Trick Trick Boom, Phil Smith Creations, John Morton, Mark Bennett, Adam Dadswell, Iain Bailey, The Magic of Wayne Dobson and Chris Rawlins. Brand-new releases. Exclusive items. This is your chance to see it, handle it, and grab it before anyone else.

The Ashford Cinema is just a 10-minute walk from Ashford International train station which is only 37 minutes from London St Pancras! There are two great hotels just a short stroll from the convention venue making your trip easy and stress-free. For more information, and to book, visit www.alakazam.co.uk.
4.4.26

 

The Magic Circle's 5th Annual Convention - Registration is now open. From the organisers: We are delighted to announce that The Magic Circle's 5th Annual Convention will take place on Sunday 5th July at The Magic Circle HQ The Centre for The Magic Arts, Stephenson Way, London. Throughout the day, you can enjoy a packed programme of world-class lectures, live performances, and exclusive sessions, bringing together some of the finest names in magic.

Our Magic Emporium Dealers' Showcase will be open throughout the day in the Devant Room, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore the very latest in magical innovation, effects, and craftsmanship. There will be plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow magicians, share ideas, and experience the very best our magical community has to offer.

The day culminates in a spectacular Gala Show hosted by the brilliant Brian Conley. Brian will also present a special lecture on comedy and stage presentation, offering valuable insights into timing, character, audience connection, and commanding the stage. An unmissable opportunity for performers of all levels.

A Special Dedication. This year holds even greater significance as, on what would have been his birthday, we proudly honour and dedicate the Convention to the legendary Wayne Dobson. Wayne was not only one of the UK's most influential magicians, but also a dear friend to so many within The Magic Circle. His creativity, humour, and groundbreaking television work inspired generations of performers. This Convention will serve as a celebration of his extraordinary life, legacy, and lasting impact on the world of magic.


Expect an incredible lineup of stars from across the magic world, along with surprises throughout the day... making this a Convention not to be missed. Premium Registration Includes: President's Drinks Reception. Front section seating for the Gala Show. A very special Magic Circle gift.

More to Be Announced. We will be revealing further performers, lectures, special guests, and exclusive experiences in the coming weeks. We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a truly special Convention, filled with world-class magic, memorable moments, and a fitting tribute to one of our greatest. Sunday 5th July 2026 a date not to be missed. Book your tickets here: www.tickettailor.com/events/themagiccircle.
4.4.26

 

Now You See Me Live - at the London Coliseum this summer. From the promoter: From the Producers of The Illusionists, and inspired by Lionsgate's worldwide blockbuster film franchise, comes the London premiere of Now You See Me Live.

The acclaimed stage illusion spectacular has captivated audiences across the globe, bringing magic to life with an explosive mix of high-tech illusions, solo stunts and jaw-dropping spectacles. For a strictly limited five-week summer season at the iconic London Coliseum, four world-class illusionists will unite as The Horsemen, transforming the magic of the films into a live stage spectacle with never-before-seen feats of wonder.

The production will feature a distinguished cast, including internationally acclaimed illusionist Enzo Weyne, world-leading escapologist Andrew Basso, rising talent Gabriella Lester, and award-winning British magician Matthew Pomeroy. Collectively, these illusionists have performed thousands of shows in hundreds of cities, including sell-out residencies on Broadway and across Australia, Asia and Las Vegas — leaving audiences spellbound and questioning the very limits of possibility. July 31st - September 6th. See www.londontheatre.co.uk.
4.4.26

 

www.theenchantedrabbit.com

 

Britain's Got Talent. Magic Catch-up from the past 7 days: Jake Banfield

"Magician pulls at Amanda Holden's heartstrings! Essex boy Jake Banfield brings his wife and daughter on stage for the big finale of his superb magic act. Watch the down-to-earth magician pull at the Judges' heartstrings with his effortless audition." YouTube [A really solid performance from Jake here, refreshingly gentle and understated. DT]. 4.4.26

 

The Magic Circle History Day - 6th June. The Magic Circle History Day is taking place at The Magic Circle HQ, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London NW1 2HD on Saturday, 6th June. During the day we cover the rich history of conjuring, its tricks, its performers, and important magic memorabilia. Everybody, whether you are members or non-members of The Magic Circle, are welcome.

The day will feature notable speakers from both the UK and overseas, a sit-down two course buffet lunch in The Wesley Hotel, tea & coffee breaks, an antiquarian magic sale and plenty of opportunities to mingle with fellow historians and collectors. Doors open at 9.30am and the event runs until 6pm. Tickets: Click Here.
4.4.26

 

The David Berglas Award 2026. Many congratulations to Ian Keable, this year's recipient of The David Berglas Award which is given annually for "Outstanding Contribution to Magic" by The British Magical Society. Formed in Birmingham in 1905, The British Magical Society is the oldest magical society in Europe. The first President was David Devant, who was also the first President of The Magic Circle. President Phil Sweeting made the presentation at their 119th Annual Dinner, on Friday 20th March. 4.4.26

 

Catch Ben Hart on Tour. Catch Ben live on tour across the UK and beyond. In 2026, he continues touring his hit show The Remarkable Ben Hart, alongside the debut performances of The Labyrinth. He will also present a "best of" show, Hex, in London's West End from 29th October - 4th November. "Brilliant... smart, sharp and skilled" Neil Patrick Harris. See www.benhartmagic.com. 4.4.26

 

The MagicWeek Video Archive. A new magic clip or show every week! This week, Tommy Cooper in a tribute type show called "Celebrity Relics" produced by BBC Bristol in 2001. See The MagicWeek Video Archive. To see more from The MagicWeek Video Archive Click Here. 4.4.26

 

Northamptonshire Magicians Club Annual Patron's Night with guest Lance Corporal Richard Jones. Joy Payne writes: Our next meeting on 7th April is our annual Patron's night, with guest lecturer Lance Corporal Richard Jones. Lance Corporal Richard Jones, The Military Mindreader, was the first Magician to ever win Britain's Got Talent! As well as being a leading TV Magician he is also the UK's most in demand Corporate Entertainer and an Ambassador of The British Army. Richard is also a proud patron of Scotty's Little Soldiers, Spread a Smile, Farleigh Hospice, Together For Short Lives and an Ambassador of the Royal British Legion.

Richard combines his experiences and training from his 12 years in The British Army with cutting edge Magic and illusion to create unforgettable moments. He regularly visits troops on operations around the world where he puts on shows to lift the morale. Richard has been awarded Member of The Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star, the most prestigious honour among magicians. It is truly an honour to have him as guest lecturer at the club Patron's night.

7th April 2026, start time 8pm. Members free, magicians' guest fee £20 – pay on the night. Northamptonshire Magicians Club meetings are held at:
Woody's Bar & Restaurant, Clannell Road (Tesco Car Park), East Hunsbury, Northampton NN4 0JF (Facebook). Note: Woody's is located in the Tesco Mereway car park. You receive up to four hours free parking while the store is open. You must validate your vehicle registration using the iPad inside the venue. Please make this the first thing you do when you arrive. Arrival time is completely up to you! Woody's has a separate bar area where you can meet and socialise with food or a drink before the meeting starts. We're looking forward to seeing you there and sharing what's sure to be a great night at the NMC.
4.4.26

 

Edinburgh Magic at The Caledonian Hotel. Kevin Quantum invites you to an intimate and quite astonishing evening of magic, mystery and wonder in one of Edinburgh's most historic and enchanting hotels - The Caledonian. Edinburgh's Best Night Out! Enjoy a unique and mind blowing night out in enchanting surroundings. Join master magician Kevin Quantum, and an audience of no more that 30 guests, for an extraordinary evening of up-close magic in the historic and listed Versailles Suite at the five star Caledonian Hotel.

Discover secrets about Edinburgh, and enjoy performances of magic that have fooled some of the greatest names associated with the city. 'Edinburgh Magic' is a seasonal show that takes place mainly on Saturday evenings. With over 150 performances and an overwhelming 5 star Trip Advisor rating, enjoy the show that the city's talking about. Dates: 9th, 23rd, 30th May, 13th, 20th, 27th June and 11th July. The Caledonian Edinburgh, Princes Street, Edinburgh New Town EH1 2AB Tickets £25 - £65 See www.edinburghmagic.co.uk for more information and to book.
4.4.26

 

Harry Merlin Piper's Desert Island Tricks. "A 15-year-old magician walks down a street in Los Angeles and strangers pull cars over just to have a photo with him and demand a trick. That's the level of spotlight Harry Merlin Piper is living in after placing as runner-up on Netflix Star Search!..." YouTube. Brought to you by www.alakazam.co.uk. 4.4.26

 

Hullusion. Sunday 11th October 2026. 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. Meet organisers, Russ, Karl and Kerry on Facebook. See www.ticketebo.co.uk to book.
4.4.26

 

New In The Leveridge Legacy Collection. Each month since last September Mark has been making available small batches of the remaining supplies of physical products left over from when his business went digital in 2018. This month he has released small quantities of Choin, which is a simple version of Hopping Halves using a brass poker chip and a UK 10p coin, The Magic Party Number Pack, which consists of a double set of 30 gold foil printed number cards along with 12 games designed for entertaining at kids' parties, plus A Cup, A Ball, A Wand, a Chop Cup style routine which can be performed with any regular cup or mug. Full details, including dems where appropriate, of these as well as all the other remaining Legacy products can be found at www.markleveridge.co.uk/the-leveridge-legacy-collection. Mark writes: "check the page out soon because once the remaining stocks are sold, no more will be made". 4.4.26

 

Nottingham Guild of Magicians Annual Card Competition. Andrew Hickling writes: Thursday saw our annual card competition taking place at the Winchester Bar, Nottingham, in front of around 40 paying guests who were asked to judge our contestants for an overall winner. Congratulations to our member and winner of this year's competition Mike Douglas who not only dazzled us with his colourful jacket, but also amazed the judges to claim the 1st prize. Contestants for this year were: Mike Douglas, Andrew Hickling, Ed Hodgkinson, Dave Charles, Peter Dilger, and Bill Newman who all gave a fantastic performance at this yearly event. Congratulations to you all. Find out all about The Nottingham Guild of Magicians at www.thenottinghamguildofmagicians.co.uk. 4.4.26

 

Houdiniana & Magic Memorabilia - Potter & Potter Auctions. A choice offering of Houdiniana and rare magic memorabilia, books, tricks, and posters. Among the highlights will be challenges, photos, and autographs from the Houdini family collection. The Houdiniana will be complemented by an assortment of collectible magic books, posters, ephemera, and apparatus. April 18th. See www.auction.potterauctions.com. 4.4.26

 

"Comedian and magician Pete Firman brings tour to Alnwick Playhouse" Click Here • "Magicians' talk doesn't trick the eyes, Three-Card Monte experiment suggests" Click Here • "Assigned Magician At Birth magic review: Magic, identity, and illusion" Click Here • "Top magicians join cast of Now You See Me Live for London stage debut" Click Here • That's it! Happy Easter, see you next week, Duncan. 4.4.26

 

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