Magazine of The Magic Circle SEPTEMBER 2014

Laura
LONDON
An Hour for Magic
 THE MAGAZINE OF THE MAGIC CIRCLE
Issue 1178 Volume 108 SEPTEMBER 2014
EDITORIAL 07507 275 285
EDITOR Will Houstoun
Editor@TheMagicCircle.co.uk
40 Derby Road, London, SW14 7DP
ASSISTANT EDITOR Tim Reed
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Anthony Brahams, Dr Edwin Dawes,
Scott Penrose, Ian Rowland, David Tomkins
CONVENOR OF REPORTS
Mandy Davis
Mandy@TheMagicCircle.co.uk
PAGE 259 PAGE 268 PAGE 276 PAGE 280 DESIGN 020 8521 2631
ART DIRECTOR
John Hawkins
FEATURES john.hawkins.7@btinternet.com
104d Grove Road
260 The Magic Circle and The Centre for the Magic Arts Walthamstow E17 9BY
268 Laura London – Will Houstoun PROOFREADERS
Paul Bromley, Julie Carpenter, Barry Cooper,
278 Secretary’s Annual Report – Steve Price Tim Reed, Lionel Russell, Mary Stupple,
Rob James, Darren Martin and Timothy
Dill-Russell
REGULARS PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mark Hesketh-Jennings
258 President’s View ADVERTISING 07767 336882
258 Circular News BUSINESS AND ADVERTISING MANAGER
Scott Penrose
260 Letters to the Editor Advertising@TheMagicCircle.co.uk
17 Berkeley Drive, Billericay Essex CM12 0YP
261 Clever Devil Corner – Harold Cataquet
MISSING AND BACK ISSUES
263 An Apprentice’s Journey – Roger Curtis 01923 267 057
Michael Candy
264 Circular Mentalism – Ian Rowland Sound of Music, Harthall Lane,
267 Tips and Tricks – Pat Fallon Hemel Hempstead,
Herts HP3 8SE
272 A Rich Cabinet of Magical Curiosities – Edwin A Dawes PRINTED BY
Perfect Imaging Ltd 020 8806 6630
276 The Art of Psychological Illusion:
The Mind Readers – Roberto Forzoni Copyright © 2014 by The Magic Circle. All rights reserved. No part
of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval
system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
280 Obituaries mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the
prior permission of the Editor of The Magic Circular.
Views expressed in The Magic Circular are those of the
282 The Magic Circle Cares – David Hatch contributors and do not necessarily represent the views of
The Magic Circle unless specifically stated. Whilst every effort is
283 Reviews made to ensure the accuracy of all information published in
The Magic Circular, the Editor, Art Director, Staff and The Magic
Circle cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.
286 Council Minutes Contributions must reach the Editor six weeks in advance of
publication if it is essential that they should appear in the
second month following’s issue and should be sent via email,
288 Forthcoming Club Events – Darryl Rose on computer disk or on CD whenever possible.

Cover
Laura London
THERE IS A WAY
Will Houstoun MIMC the last nine years, then log in to The Magic Circle
Published by
The Magic Circle Website and visit The Magic Circular ‘Back Issues’ page to
12 Stephenson Way
London NW1 2HD catch up.
VAT Reg No 233 8369 51 This month I am delighted to launch a new bi-monthly
All enquiries
T 020 7387 2222
A s I write this Editorial I am close to collapse, one column by popular Monday night regular, Roberto
week into a programme teaching children who have Forzoni. Roberto is a keen mentalist and, quite rightly, has
had strokes magic as a form of therapy. Alongside pointed out that many mind readers seem to trace their
Members Richard McDougall, David Owen, Laura London origins to contemporary performers such as Derren
and Christopher Howell as well as a host of therapists the Brown. In fact the history of mind reading stretches back
children have made giant strides, learning to perform far further and, in his new column, Roberto will profile
important everyday actions, such as tying up shoelaces, some of the leading historical exponents of this form of
which they were unable to complete before. The project, magical entertainment. My thanks go to him for the work
Breathe Magic, was featured in the May 2013 Magic that is required to write such a column and, of course, to
Circular and is making great progress. Take a look at everyone else who contributes to the magazine.
www.breatheahr.org to find out more, the gains the
children make are very close to real magic. If you missed
the original article, or any other issue of The Circular in
 CIRCULAR NE
PRESIDENT’S VIEW
CONJURING CREDITS
Magic Circle Members will no
doubt be interested to know of a
Jack Delvin MIMC new free research tool for
magicians that has just appeared.
Conjuring Credits
(www.conjuringcredits.com) is a
free website devoted to the history
and origins of magical sleights,
tricks and concepts.
In the mid-1980s, Stephen Minch
and Max Maven began keeping a
record of their research and that of
others regarding the history of
conjuring. Desiring to share this
information with other researchers,
writers and students of magic, they

T his is about the sixty-fourth Presidential I have

written in my five years in office, plus six
months as acting President. Sixty-four lots of over
pack of alphabet cards, easily obtainable from
your favourite dealer. All you need to do is to
control two cards bearing their initials. You could
envisioned a free website that
would make this possible. Roberto
Giobbi suggested that Denis Behr
650 words, all on different subjects. I have been a start with these on top of the deck and keep them might be willing to create such a
Circle Member for over sixty years and a Member there when you false shuffle the cards. But it site.
of Council for some twenty-five years; how quickly would be much better if you allow the deck to be
time flies when you are having fun! shuffled by the spectator, and secretly add the two
I’ve performed close-up and onstage in cards to the top from your palm afterwards.
dozens of At Homes, given quite a few lectures, Next you ask the spectator to deal the deck into
been PRO, Auctioneer, Chair of the Magic Circular two piles. This will bring one of the special initials
Committee, Advertisement Manager of The to the bottom of each pile. Then ask the spectator
Circular, Chair of the Junior Magic Circle to cut each of the piles into two; so that you end
Committee, which later became YMC, and Chair up with four small piles of cards with the special Behr
of The Magic Circle Foundation which later initials at the bottom of two of them. accepted the daunting
became the CMA. I have performed in the Fiftieth Using the famous well-known conjurer’s choice task and took it further than Minch
Anniversary Gala Show, two Magic Circle system get the spectator to remove two of the and Maven had envisioned, by
Banquets, ran Summer School for six years, ran piles, leaving the two piles with the special initials installing valuable links to the
Delvin’s Discoveries five times, etc etc. Now for a on the table. Conjuring Arts Research Center’s
rest. Just one more column to go after this one; I Ask the spectator to turn over the two piles and Ask Alexander database and Behr’s
wonder what that will be about. to tell you if they find the letter cards, freely own Conjuring Archive, making the
Apart from reminiscing, what new subject shall chosen, have any special significance to them. site an exceptionally powerful
I cover? I know I’ll give you a gift, my latest trick. Suddenly the penny will drop to their utter research tool, one that provides not
It’s called Initials. amazement. only a summary of the history of
You need to secretly find out the initials of a From a presentation point of view it would be various tricks and sleights, but also
member of your audience. The more unlikely it is good to re-write history and say that only they makes many source documents
that you will know their initials the stronger will touched the cards throughout. Also emphasise available for verification and study.
be the effect. For instance I made a point of that the spectator has made all the choices As the site was being developed,
checking on the Members of The Magic Circle who themselves and subconsciously picked out their other experts were invited to
are most likely to be in the front row when I very own name. participate and add information.
performed the trick in the Circle’s theatre recently. Hope you like it. I do, but then I would. l These included William Kalush, Tyler
Another way of getting the information is that, Wilson, Aurelio Paviato, Roberto
when you are performing in a public show, you Giobbi and Dan Smith. The site
can find out the initials of one member of the currently presents an impressive
audience from their letter ordering the tickets. wealth of information and,
If working at a club of some sort have a word combined with Ask Alexander and
with the secretary just before you start. It only the Conjuring Archive, offers the
takes a second to set up the cards. most powerful set of research tools
As this is a trick with letters you will need a President@TheMagicCircle.co.uk yet devised for magicians. The
Conjuring Credits board hopes that,

258 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

WS
with the help of magicians
worldwide, the site will grow to
become ever more helpful in MODEL MAGIC
discovering and making accessible Congratulations to Magic Circle
the vast, complex and fascinating Member Troy who has not only
history of magic. recently brought magic to our
television screens but also
ROYAL PERFORMANCE signed a contract as one of the
On Monday 23 June Windsor Castle new faces of fashion brand
hosted a charity event that featured French Connection. You can see
more magicians than your average a video in which Troy performs
convention! Magic Circle Member some rather stylish magic here
Etienne Pradier arranged for Nick www.youtube.com/watch?v=rv
Einhorn, Laura London, Nicolas QmwdNNpb8
Clement and Pierre Manu to perform
close-up magic during a VIP drinks
reception. Then, after the Royal
banquet, Etienne performed a superb
set on stage before introducing the
star act of the night, Penn & Teller.
Both Etienne and Nick were
winners on ITV1’s Penn & Teller:
Fool Us and were delighted to have
arranged for Penn & Teller to be
part of this event.

From Left to Right: Laura London, Nicholas Einhorn, Pierre Manu, Teller, Etienne Pradier, Nicholas Clement and Penn Jillette.

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 259

 The Magic
will all now be progressed following a meeting of The Magic
Circle Council on 9 July 2014.
Firstly a change in the name of The Centre for the Magic

Circle and
Arts Ltd to The Magic Circle Foundation Ltd, a title that
emphasises its charitable status. The Board of Trustees are
being asked to seek permission from the Charities
Commission. The working party also recommended that all

The Centre trading with non-Members be carried out by one company,

The Magic Circle Ltd.
Thus the three arms of the same body should be

for the understood at a glance.

1 The Magic Circle: A Members’ club and society dedicated

Magic Arts to the promotion of magic.

2 The Magic Circle Foundation Ltd: The Magic Circle’s

charitable arm, administering the building and

O ver recent years there has been a lack of clarity in the

minds of some Magic Circle Members as to the exact
nature of the relationship between The Centre for the Magic
undertaking its charitable activities.

3 The Magic Circle Ltd: The trading arm, selling goods,

Arts (CMA) and The Magic Circle (TMC). This has contributed letting the building and promoting shows to the public.
to rumours, myths and misunderstandings.
With this in mind The Council of The Magic Circle It is also hoped that we can look to expand our charitable
commissioned a working party to carry out a review. Four work with Council and Members assisting in this initiative.
Council members with diverse skill sets – Marvin Berglas, Going forward, a number of recommendations relate to
Geoffrey Durham, Andrew Eborn and Stephen Kennard, later improved communication between the CMA, the Council of
replaced by Mark Lee – were appointed in December 2013 to TMC and with Members. These include reference to
recommend any changes that might now be appropriate. arrangements for Club Nights, further use of TMC’s allocation
This led to a thorough review and clarification of all the of a third of the year for Members to access the building and
facts, the history and the current relationship. This involved allowing Members greater use of the building for various
consulting with and seeking opinions from various groups activities of mutual advantage.
and Members. It is encouraging to note that the profits from letting the
The working party concluded that there would be no building in recent years have been rising – despite the
benefits or advantages in abolishing the CMA. In fact the building works in Stephenson Way.
current structure saves considerable sums and overcomes Finally, the improved communications with Council and
various administrative and practical issues necessary to Members will provide even greater transparency as regards
efficiently run our Headquarters. our charitable and trading activities.
However, to evidence the start a new era of cooperation, A full copy of the report and recommendations is being
various recommendations have been suggested and these made available via the Members’ area of the Website. l

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

ALAN ALAN upside down straightjacket escape successfully. UNDILUTED HOCUS-POCUS
Alan Alan, as well as being a great He took his curtain call looking dishevelled and Your reviewer of Martin Gardner’s Undiluted
demonstrator, was first and foremost a unkempt without his bow tie. Hocus-Pocus (July 2014) made the bizarre
superb showman, and whether he was buried Keith observed this and advised him to (and wildly incorrect) connection between
alive, wrapped in chains, or encased in a have a second bow tie – either clip on, ventriloquist Señor
straightjacket hanging upside down over a magnetic or with Velcro I cannot remember Wences and magician
cage of lions he was probably the last we will which – and to add it to the collar of his Clayton Rawson (who
ever see of his generation. shirt before the final bow so that the final also wrote ‘The Great
As usual with great showmen he had a impression of the audience was that of a Merlini’ mystery novels).
Señor Wences
heart of gold always willing to pass on tidbits ‘smart’ performer. He offers his abject
of his valuable advice and observations that Funny how you remember these little things. apologies to your
would most certainly improve your Rest in peace Alan you were a good friend readers, the reputations
performance. He was, however, on the and a tremendous performer. of Messrs Wences and
receiving end on one occasion from none Till we meet again on that big stage. Rawson and the memory
other than Keith Clark (Pierre Cartier). Alan Shalom! of Martin Gardner.
was performing in Paris and had finished his Chris Woodward Brian Sibley Clayton Rawson

260 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 CLEVER DEVIL
A Tidy Desk? CORNER
Harold Cataquet AIMC
I like to think that I am very organised. Ask
me to find a receipt for a taxi taken three
months ago and I’ll tell you exactly where it
is. Name a book in my library and I’ll be able
to put my hands on it instantly. Name a prop empty. To further make my wife’s case, I one rope trick that I perform all the time that
in my collection that you want to look at, and remember a few years ago that it was almost is based on a bonus item in a booklet of coin
I’m able to name everything in the box that two years before I was able to have the time to tricks. In addition to having a listing for the
it’s being kept in. The problem is that if you sort through all my stuff. There were indeed a booklet, I can list this specific trick in my
were to ask my wife Melanie if I was lot of shopping bags in the house! master record and refer to the booklet’s
organised, she’d emphatically say no. Everything that has been filed/stored is neatly location in the coin section. I don’t keep a list
Let me begin with the case for the organised, and I have a record of its exact of every item in a book, only the items I find
prosecution. I travel a great deal, not as location. It’s just the new stuff that is in the exceptional. If you need that detail, you can
much as I used to, but I’ll easily do over shopping bags that needs to be relocated. But I always refer to magic tripod
100,000 miles a year, albeit most of that in have a secret weapon – one that is worth the (http://magicref.tripod.com/magic0.htm) and
an aeroplane. So, it’s not unusual for me to proverbial price of the book. Specifically, in each Denis Behr’s pages
arrive from one trip only to unpack and need bag, I have a piece of paper listing the contents (http://archive.denisbehr.de)
to pack for the next one. But these trips of that bag and a note saying where each item Many small items, such as A5-sized lecture
aren’t similar excursions, so the packing is to be later filed. This list is duplicated in my notes and instruction booklets, are incredibly
requirements are rarely the same. Sometimes, master record, but the entry in my master time-consuming to sort through at the best
I’ll need to pack four computers and behave record refers to the shopping bag and its of times. Having a record of the exact
like tech support for a couple of days, but location, rather than the intended eventual location of these items prevents you from
other times, I only have to pack a tablet and location of the specific item. If you have a large having to look through all of them to find the
my Italian suits and act like a trading expert collection, or a messy one, having a similar one you want. For example, my A5 pamphlets
for three or four days. If I am indulging in one record keeping system is essential. In my case, are stored according to subject area (cards or
of my hobbies along the way (e.g. going to a the master record is an Excel file and I can non-cards), then the colour of the cover, and
magic convention before or after the job), quickly find something simply using Excel’s finally the name of the trick or title of the
then I have to pack more things into the search function. notes. So, Peter Kane’s Gypsy Curse is in
travel case. Everything is well organised and This approach has several benefits: Cards, Green cover, under G.
very professional in appearance, even my It prevents you from buying the same Setting up the list in the first place is
wife will admit to that, but the chaos really trick/book/prop again a few years later because admittedly very time-consuming, but once it’s
begins upon my return. you forgot you already owned it. Similarly, if you set up, it’s very easy to update. Moreover,
Without question, I will return from my trip can’t remember which Tamariz book is missing because you probably already have some
with more things than when I left. But I like from your collection, a quick glance at the kind of filing system, you already know the
to compartmentalise everything. So, after I master list gives you an instant answer. categories that you would need to specify in
have unpacked all the clothing and work If you’re getting inundated with a certain your master record.
stuff, I’ll have an envelope stuffed with class of prop, you can quickly see this from the But what about storing all this stuff? Well,
business receipts to file later. I’ll also have a list. You can then take the opportunity to reduce you could use shopping bags temporarily, but
shopping bag with all my magic purchases to the list to a few select favourites, selling off the for a permanent solution, I turned to the
be put into boxes. I’ll have another shopping unwanted props. Alternatively, if that class plastic box shop
bag with all my puzzle purchases to be put in grows too big in number and you want to keep (http://www.plasticboxshop.co.uk/). They
their storage locations. In fact, for each of my all of them, then you can split it into two or have plastic boxes in many sizes and I highly
hobbies, I’ll have a shopping bag that needs more classes. For example, I have a huge recommend them. But if money is tight, I
to be emptied. Now given I travel so much, I collection of tricks with dice. To simplify finding suggest you get cardboard boxes used for
rarely have time to empty these bags before a particular trick, I broke the list down into six archiving (from eBay). Personally, I have
it’s time for my next trip. So a backlog of classes: number predictions, dice stacking, dice found these don’t last very long if you are
shopping bags can easily begin to appear as balls, gambling tricks, final loads, and frequently moving them around, but if the
everywhere in the house as each trip is miscellaneous. Having the list ahead of time boxes are just going to sit in one place, they
assigned a specific area. To the untrained eye, allows you to assign subcategories without do the job. Regardless, make sure you put a
when I am travelling for a long stretch, it having to empty the collection and sort them list of the contents in each box. That way,
looks as though I am just bringing home physically. when you come to a box, you can check if
shopping bags that I am never going to Items can be listed multiple times! There is what you’re looking for really is in there. l

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 261

 The World’s Largest-Selling Magazine for Magicians

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262 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR JULY 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 AN APPRENTICE’S
JOURNEY
Roger Curtis

H ello all and welcome to part three of my

Apprentice to (hopeful) Membership
journey. In the last article I talked about my
earlier the areas of debate that I can assume
happen from time to time within magic circles
and one of these is, I believe, whether we
importantly, and this I think is the crux of my
argument, if I see a trick I like and crucially,
the audience reacts well to, why would I
thoughts on what was needed to pass the should simply and directly plagiarise another want to change it? I’m not saying this is
exam, the difficulty in picking the right effects magician’s work? right – it’s just my point of view! I am sure
to perform and the most effective way to Of course it would be fantastic if we could the hundreds and thousands of similar
then practise and master the various simply watch someone performing a trick and people like me around the world are what
techniques in order to show a necessary level then take the performance we have watched makes the commercial side of magic a going
of attainment. and change it to make it original, including concern and not a growing concern. Let the
This time, I want to begin to talk about one various nuances, sleights and patter to improve great inventors, originators, creators play to
of the effects I think I will include in my the original. I know there are many of you who their strength and we’ll try to use what they
audition, why I chose it and how I then learn are reading this who will think: “Well that’s produce and play to ours.
to present it. This route will also raise other exactly what I do.” That’s great, but I would So having considered a number of options,
questions and areas of debate, which I know surmise that those people are professional or I settled on the Peterson effect, which I
are a constant source of discussion between semi-professional magicians who have been believe works for me on the performance,
magicians. So let’s start with the what and doing magic for years, are very proficient trick and audience categories and hopefully
the why. performers and can therefore spend time on for my delightful, accommodating and
I wanted to include a card effect, not looking at tricks and making them original. As potentially soon-to-be very wealthy
because I am particularly addicted to cards an amateur all my time is spent on reading, examiners as well. Once I had decided upon
but because my strong belief is that in order learning moves, practising moves and perfecting the effect I needed to learn it and this is
to be considered a magician of standing you patter before hopefully performing the tricks where the really hard work began. Yes, there
have to know how to handle and perform once or twice to friends and family, rather than is work involved in choosing an effect but
with a deck of cards. Of course there are through countless repeat performances. More there are so many effects to choose from on
thousands or possible options here and, as a daily, weekly basis that actually this is not
my own performing style leans towards a really work, more observance and
humorous approach, I wanted to choose contemplation.
something that was light, involved what I I started by watching the performance over
would call a traditional effect and also and over again, looking for important points
involved sleight of hand of the kind that, with of ‘pressure’ where either I believe a move or
shaking, nervous hands, would not go wrong sleight was performed, or where some form
(a perfectly executed faro for example). I of misdirection is required. At this point I am
therefore settled on a four Ace production also beginning to think about how the trick is
and began to scour books to discover being presented, the patter, storyline, what
possible options and then watch various the audience are hearing in relation to what
performances from a range of magicians, to they are watching and what it means to them
gain an understanding around the different as every trick needs to mean something or
styles and presentations. I eventually settled connect in some way, otherwise you are in
on a Thom Peterson effect that I felt included danger of simply becoming a pair of hands.
a good presentation and some sleight of Once I had watched it to a point where I
hand to demonstrate a proficient level of skill understood what was going on and was
within a nice routine. comfortable with the effect, I then started to
Now before I go into more detail on this, I think about how it’s done and, two minutes
wanted to touch on the subject of how, as a later, I watched the explanation! But more of
beginner, I chose the right effect. I mentioned Thom Peterson that next time... l

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 WRECKED IN UTRECHT

F rom time to time in these pages I have recommended doing

corporate lecture gigs. They’re relatively easy, the money’s good and
you get a free lunch. However, there is another side to the story. Here’s
this was a reasonably good-natured ice-breaker.
Back in my room, I spent a while rehearsing my ‘Impossible Thinking’
lecture. As I did so, I noticed some church bells ringing a couple of streets
a cautionary tale. away. At the top of every hour, there was a peal of bells lasting about
I have a corporate lecture on the art of ‘impossible thinking.’ It won forty seconds followed by the appropriate number of bongs. For added
an award, the suits like it and it involves magic and puzzle fun as well fun, each half hour was marked by another forty second din of clanging,
as serious business stuff. A big company in Utrecht booked me to give discordant chimes. The bells were quite loud and intrusive, as church bells
this lecture at their conference. are meant to be. (Check out ‘Dom Tower, Utrecht’ on YouTube.)
Utrecht, as you know, is where they signed the 1713 peace treaty that I assumed that the bells would eventually fall silent so everyone could
ended the War of the Spanish Succession. More significantly, it’s also get some rest. This assumption turned out to be tragically optimistic.
where Fred Kaps was born. His real name, by the way, was Bram Bongers. Having settled down for a good night’s sleep, I gradually came to the grim
I think this is a brilliant name and I wish he had carried on using it. and horrible realisation that the bells carried on all night. Every half hour,
When I arrived at my hotel on the eve of the conference, there was I got another Quasimodo Ding-a-long Party from the nearby church tower,
a cheerful girl on the desk called rendering sleep impossible. By the time I realised this, it was too late to
My opening joke Lotte. I explained that I didn’t need do anything about it or seek a different room. It was enough to drive me
anything fancy, like a large Bongers.
was met with executive suite, but just a really In the morning, I therefore went along to the conference venue having
pure, blank quiet room – far away from the had no sleep whatsoever. This wasn’t a great start, admittedly, but I
silence, like an elevator and any frequently used figured I’d survive. Just to add to the spice of the challenge, I should
especially morose doors. Lotte said she understood
and, after much devoted
mention that I had agreed to present my lecture twice – once before
lunch and once after.
day in a Trappist contemplation of her computer I started my first lecture of the day with my well-rehearsed joke about
Monastery screen, as if assessing a the big rabbit statue. This was met with pure, blank silence, like an
challenging new particle physics especially morose day in a Trappist Monastery. I later discovered that the
theorem, she awarded me the keys to room 212. This turned out to be joke fell flat for two reasons (three if you add “it wasn’t a very good joke”).
a large, executive suite next to the elevator and a set of doors in The first reason is that I had been told the conference delegates were
constant use. The room enjoyed all the symphonic richness of the busy all locals who would know Utrecht pretty well. Not so. I later discovered
road outside: angry car horns, grumbling buses, trundling trucks and that they came from all over Europe, and many of them knew less about
revving motorbikes provided a seamless sonic tapestry of carburetted the town than I did.
congestion. I returned to Reception and, after many forced smiles and The second reason is just beautiful. Photo 1 shows you the statue I saw
utterly insincere pleasantries, I won a new room on the side of the near my hotel, which you remember I photographed to show to Lotte, the
hotel away from the traffic. hotel receptionist. I have since learned it’s a humorous copy of Rodin’s
I went for an evening stroll around the town. Not far from the river, ‘Thinker’ featuring a hare. Photo 2 shows you Miffy, and the ‘statue’ of
I encountered a large, imposing statue of what looked like a big black Miffy that is somewhere in Utrecht but nowhere near my hotel.
rabbit or hare on top of a monument. Rather intrigued, I took a photo Apparently, even with photo evidence, Lotte managed to confuse one
for reference purposes. with the other.
Back at the hotel, I asked Lotte if she knew what the big rabbity Despite my opening joke being about as funny as a cancer diagnosis
statue was all about, and showed her the photo I had taken. Lotte written in braille, the rest of my lecture went reasonably well. May I
explained that this was Miffy – a rabbit from a children’s animated TV remind you at this point that my ‘lecture’ is essentially a three-hour
show who is a very big star in Holland. She added that there is even a performance. I don’t show slides and I don’t sit down. I move around the
Miffy museum, and assured me that everyone knew about Miffy. room, keep the energy levels high, interact with all the students and try to
This gave me an idea for an opening joke for my lecture. I thought be as entertaining and informative as possible. This is moderately
I could start by talking about the differences between the UK and the energetic and tiring.
Netherlands, and then say something like this: “We erect statues to After my first lecture, I was taken to a large atrium for lunch which, in
notable people such as kings, queens and statesmen, whereas you keeping with Dutch national policy, meant seventeen variations on bread,
erect statues to big, made-up rabbits.” If nothing else, I thought more bread and things you can make that are mostly bread. I soon

264 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 CIRCULAR MENTALISM

Ian Rowland MIMC

realised there were no chairs and that everyone was going to enjoy their sleep of the richly entitled. Even then, getting paid for the gig turned
lunch standing up. This was absolutely spiffing for everyone else as they into one of those ‘blood from a stone’ exercises so familiar to the
had been sitting down all morning and welcomed a chance to stretch self-employed.
their legs. For me, on the other hand, it was a little bit like torture as I had So that’s my Utrecht story. All of which just goes to show that
already been on my feet for three hours solid. corporate lecture gigs are like any other types of performance:
I went back to the conference venue to give my second lecture, sans sometimes they’re great, and sometimes they make you feel like
rabbit statue joke, which lasted another three hours. Towards the end of jumping naked into a cactus patch just because it hurts less.
this second presentation my legs and feet got seriously tired and began to Nonetheless, it’s still better than having a job.
complain. After my second and final lecture, I was invited to join everyone
for jolly post-conference drinks and chat. This took place in the same QUICK TRICK
atrium as lunch and on the same terms – everyone standing up, nowhere Next time you take a trip anywhere especially pleasant or noteworthy,
to sit. This went on for about an hour before my pre-booked taxi arrived have someone take a nice photo of you that is funny or striking for
and I could depart for the airport. some reason. Make sure that in the shot is a deck of cards with just the
In effect, I was on my feet for eight hours continuously. After missing a face card showing e.g. the three of hearts. You can use any card, but
night’s sleep. On a warm, humid day. make sure it’s not one of the psychologically likely choices (Ace of
In the taxi back to the airport, my legs and feet started to hurt even Spades, Queen of Hearts etc.). Print this photo, tuck it in an envelope.
more. Clinging to the mantra that “This too shall pass,” I figured that all At the start of your next informal social evening with friends, casually
I had to do was survive the mercifully brief flight home, and then I could introduce the envelope and leave it somewhere visible. Say it’s for later
rest and all would be well. Unfortunately, the budget airline I was using on, don’t make a big fuss about it, and enjoy your evening.
conspired to taunt me with every frustrating, time-wasting trick they Later, perform three or four card tricks of the kind where a spectator
could think of. They ensured that (a) I had to traipse the full length of freely and fairly chooses any card without any possible force (e.g. face
Schiphol airport several times over, and (b) the whole journey took as up selection with the cards in their own hands). If, at any point, one of
long as possible. Having missed a night’s sleep, and having been on my these selections happens to be the three of hearts, you can improvise
feet for eight hours, I was filled with the kind of burning hatred for your way to a miracle. If not, and anyone asks about the envelope,
budget airline travel that could lead a less stoical soul to go berserk and simply enthuse about your trip, tell an anecdote or two and show the
throttle someone. I eventually got home, soaked in the bath and slept the funny photo you brought along. If nobody mentions the cards in the
picture, that’s fine, and if they do just say,
“That’s me… always practising, even on
holiday!”
If you don’t get lucky, you’re just telling an
anecdote about a funny picture (you never said
the photo had anything to do with a magic
trick). But if you do get lucky, you have an
inexplicable miracle.
Most photos these days are shared digitally
rather than in printed form. If you think it
makes things more natural, backdate your
anecdote to a time when printed photos were
the norm. l

Invitation
If you have items, stories, jokes or vicious
rumours of interest to mentalists, please drop
me a line (ian@ianrowland.com). If you can’t
afford Derren and want to hire a fairly good
Photo 1 Photo 2 also-ran mentalist, or you just have time to
kill, please visit www.ianrowland.com.

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 265

 THE MAGIC CIRCLE
SHOWCASE

sales
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and gold coloured logo. £3.95 each or £6.95 for two.
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266 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 Staying Safe and Secure
TIPS AND
While Travelling TRICKS
Pat Fallon MIMC

M any years ago, while I was in the

company of Paul Daniels, a young
magician approached and asked him for
opportunistic so being vigilant reduces the odds
of your becoming a victim.
Hotel security has greatly improved with
you need it done, but from my experience a
tip will guarantee your room will be fully
serviced long before you have finished
some advice about being in show business. electronic key card entry, personal safes and breakfast.
Paul’s reply was simple and direct: “Never closed-circuit television being the norm for most Most bedroom doors are fitted with glass
leave your money in the dressing room.” good establishments. However there are a few peepholes that have fisheye lenses to allow
At the time the young man went away additional things you can do which are worth you a wider field of view from the inside, with
somewhat crestfallen, but I doubt if he considering for extra protection. little to no visibility from the outside. Always
has ever received any better advice, before Before leaving your room pull the curtains, check that this lens has not been reversed so
or since. turn on some lights, switch on the television that an unscrupulous person can look
There is no doubt that a great deal of the and adjust the volume so it can be heard inwards to see if the room is occupied.
information we receive about protecting through the door but is not so loud as to annoy Never carry your key card in the little folder
ourselves and our property, especially when the guests in other rooms. Electrical items will you receive at the check-in desk as it
travelling, is just common sense, but often only continue working as long as there is a card contains all the hotel information including
when we are busy performing, or simply (usually your key card) in the slot just inside the your room number. If you lose it, have your
enjoying ourselves we neglect to adhere to door. Before leaving, insert your Magic Circle pocket picked or worse still get mugged a
some simple best-practices. Having spent Membership Card into the slot and bring your prospective thief has everything necessary to
almost thirty years on the road I have picked key card with you. Last, but not least, leave any relieve you of whatever you have in your
up some very useful tips from a variety of room service trays outside in the hall and hang room, including your suitcases.
different performers and, of course, from my the ‘Do not disturb’ sign on the door. These are When out walking, always carry money in
personal experiences. I hope you will find all the signs of room occupation so no thief, no different places, not just in a wallet or
them useful. matter how stupid, will attempt to break in your handbag, as that way you are less likely to be
Hotels in towns and cities are often room in your absence. relieved of everything in one go. Carrying
located on the edge, or at least in close If you are going to be away from your room some folded paper money down your sock or
proximity to less affluent areas where it may all day it is important to have it serviced before in your shoe should also be a consideration
not be safe to walk alone. This is something you leave otherwise you will be unable to set as very few thieves will ask you to remove
the hotels themselves obviously won’t up your extra security. Usually members of the your shoes and socks while stealing from you.
advertise so it is always advisable to ask the housekeeping staff begin work early so locate Prevention is far better than the cure
hall porter or the receptionist if there are any one of them assigned to your floor and ask because no amount of insurance will make
specific areas that you should avoid, them to service your room while you are at up for the pain and inconvenience that can
especially at night. A lot of petty crime is breakfast. You can give them some excuse why be caused by a thief. l

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www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 267

Laura London

An Hour for Magic Interviewed by Will Houstoun MIMC

Laura London AIMC is well known to Magic Laura London: When I was younger, I was the age of six we moved to Hendon where I
Circle Monday Night regulars as one of a bit naughty. I was expelled from school and stayed untill I was a teenager. My first
London’s busiest working magicians. As well as I wasn’t the kind of person that adapted very introduction to magic was from a friend of my
being a ‘worker’ she is also fast developing an well to normal life. The one consistent thing in mum, Colin Francome, a Member of The Magic
interest in technical sleight of hand magic, has my life, from when I was about eight years old, Circle, I was blown away and was instantly
recently released a popular effect with was my love for magic. I was born in the heart hooked. Across the road from me lived George
Ellusionist and is hosting a series of magic of London’s West end, my mum owned one of Kovari. I didn’t know who he was, but he just
workshops in London’s Hippodrome Casino. the biggest nightclubs in London and I was looked like a magician. I’d go into my local
I met Laura in the Hippodrome to find out surrounded by rockstars and the elite socialites corner shop and see this man with his fabulous
more about the many facets of her current of the 1980s, spending Christmases at John moustache and tell my mum that he had to be
career and to discover how she got here. Entwistle’s house from The Who. After a series a magician. She found out that Kovari was,
of unfortunate and unforeseeable events, my indeed, a magician and agreed to take me to
Will Houstoun: I’d like to talk about your mother was forced to step away from the life his house to knock on the door. So, at the age
current magical work but before we do that, she once had and had to start her life again. of twelve, I went knocking at George Kovari’s
just to give a little context, how did your Bringing me up alone with little money, my house with my mum! She told him of my love of
interest in magic develop? mum was and still is a very brave woman. From magic and asked if he needed an assistant. He

268 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 magic with anything, I thought that you had to
spend money to be a magician. I got the book,
101 Things With a Svengali Deck, and by the
time I was fourteen I literally could do 101
tricks with a Svengali deck! In fact I used a
Svengali deck in my audition to become a
Member of The Magic Circle.

Will: So when did magic move from being

your hobby into being your job?
Laura: I left home and school when I was
fifteen and I guess I was a bit of a tearaway.
I spent a lot of time partying, not doing a lot of
magic, but I was very much known amongst my
friends as the one that could do ‘tricks’. So at
that point the extent of my magic was really
just entertaining friends. When I was seventeen
I made that decision to try and take it further.
I ceremoniously called up a lot of my friends
and I said: “Right, you’re not going to see me
at parties anymore. I am going to become a
Laura's earlier style
magician.” They all laughed at me but I did it
and it wasn’t long before I got my first TV show Fay really helped me sort my life out and
Playing Tricks. On my eighteenth birthday I did focus on magic, which was what I wanted to
my exam for The Magic Circle and I was very do. She helped get my place in order and my
lucky that Fay Presto and a few other people bills paid. She really helped me in every way
really helped me become the person I am today. and I’ll forever be grateful for that. Eventually,
Fay let me cover her residencies whenever she
Will: How did you meet Fay? couldn’t do them. I wound up working at Marco
Laura: I was just really lucky. I had turned up Pierre White’s restaurant and then I actually got
at The Magic Circle and, at the time, I was a that residency.
punk. I had a crazy haircut and rather out-there That was really where I honed my skills and
fashion taste, not one person spoke to me! The I’m really grateful to both Fay and Marco who
Magic Circle is usually a very friendly place but allowed me to work at such a young age and as
I think my style was a little bit much for a lot of such a novice.
people and perhaps they were a little scared of
me. As I was walking out I met Fay Presto who Will: Whilst we are talking about residencies,
asked me who I was and, in complete contrast you currently have three high profile residencies,
to everyone else, said: “I love the way you look, including the Hippodrome where we’re talking
you look fabulous! Come to dinner with me.” at the moment. Would you advise somebody
She then let me follow her around at her gigs, who’s doing close-up magic they should get a
letting me see how she worked, and also gave residency?
me work, not for the money at first but for the Laura: I think residencies are so important.
ås
experience. They give you a regular income and also allow

said, “She’s a little bit young, but I’m very

happy to show her around my house.” He
showed me magic and he showed me all his
incredible posters and books and I was
enthralled – It was probably the most amazing
thing I’d seen at that age. That was it, I knew I
was going to be a magician. I’m not sure Kovari
knows that he had such an impact on my young
life but he really did.
A bit later I joined the Young Magicians Club
and, although I didn’t go very often, I read the
magazine with excitement. Every Christmas and
every birthday, all I wanted was a trip to
Davenports and my mum would give me a
budget that I could spend on magic. At that
Performing for Prince Charles
time I didn’t realise that you could actually do

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 269

you to hone your skills, try out new stuff, create will turn around and say: “Oh, can you show us Will: In The Magic Circle’s Close-up
contacts and get other work. Also my something?” The staff will then tell the Competition, you did an act that was based
residencies each have a very different feel. The manager and they will tell the owner. It’s a sort around technical card magic. Why did you
London Hippodrome is an amazing place where of subtle way in. There is no waiting staff in the decide to do that?
Houdini himself performed and I am so proud to world, sat behind a bar, that will just ignore the Laura: I didn’t enter the competition with
be the resident magician three nights a week magic that is happening in front of them. the intention to win. My goal was to give myself
doing walk around style magic, it has almost a deadline. I had decided that I wanted to put
become my second home. I also work just down Will: The first time that we spoke at any length together a show that included all the moves
the road at the Café de Paris, where they have was when Richard McDougall introduced us I had been practising at that time, false shuffles
great big tables. I also perform at the Café and you were asking about false table shuffles. and bottom dealing, the problem was where to
Royal for the BlackCat cabaret, which is a much That isn’t the kind of magic one thinks of when perform it. I can’t perform it at work as I’m not
more intimate venue where they’re sat down in one says “working magician!” What made you getting paid to do that kind of stuff. I can
twos and threes, there I can pull up a chair and interested in that kind of thing? perform it for friends or magicians but I could
that’s when I get to do my sleight of hand Laura: I’d got to a point with my act where do that anytime. The competition was really good
magic in the intimate style that I really enjoy I could do it with my eyes shut. I think that because it forced me to make sure that I had
doing the most. I’m in a great position to be happens when you go out and you do the same something ready for that time. I had to get that
able to push myself, performing the magic that I act so often. I don’t think that means you show down as well as I could and, no matter
love in three very different ways, by doing three should change it though. You’ll see it a where I was at with it, I had to perform it.
very different residencies. thousand times, but the audiences you meet
over the years will only see it once. If it works, Will: So are you continuing to work on that
Will: How should someone go about getting a don’t change it unless you find something that set?
residency? fits perfectly within your repertoire. Laura: That act is now fast becoming a
Laura: First you you decide which restaurant The thing that started to niggle at me was parlour show. It’s about a female card cheat
or bar you would like to be resident. You go that I couldn’t practise the material in my act. called Geraldine Hartmann who is incredibly
there and have a meal or a drink and enjoy I didn’t need to practise it because I was always mysterious, did some bad things and made her
yourself with your friends. Put yourself in a doing it. I got to a point where I wanted living as a card cheat. Geraldine became such
position where you meet the staff, the manager something to do when I was sat at home and a passion of mine that she has become so
and, ideally, the owner. You need to show that I had always had a passion for playing cards. much bigger in my mind than she ever was
what you do would really contribute beautifully I didn’t have anyone around me really that was before. The show, that I’ve written, is as much
to their venue. You turn up and show them really into technical magic who could show me about her and what she stands for as it is
what they’re missing out on. that stuff so I picked up Erdnase and I read it. about the sleight of hand, the card cheating
I fell in love with the book and found the and the gambling.
Will: Presumably you don’t just pitch up and perfect things to start practising. It reignited my
say: “Stop what you’re doing and watch me do passion in magic because, when you’re just Will: In magic there seem to be two main
magic because this is great for you!” doing gigs over and over again and you’re not schools of thought. There is the professional
Laura: No, no, no. There are subtleties. Don’t at home doing magic, that passion isn’t at magician who says: “I have my five tricks which
do magic for the owner, do magic for your home, it is somewhere else. It’s only there when are all I need for my job.” Then you get the
friends. I can guarantee you that if you’re sat at you’re lighting up the faces of the people that hobbyist who says: “I’m not that bothered
the bar doing tricks for your friends the staff you’re performing for. about doing a show, but I’m going to spend all
my time thinking about and practising a move.”
You seem to take both roles at different times.
Do you think there’s a divide between your
‘hobby’ interest and your ‘work’ interest in
magic?
Laura: My passion is magic so I don’t see it as
a job. I think that I’m the luckiest person alive to
be able to make a living from something I love
so much. Had I not been making a living I’d still
be doing card tricks because, to me, it’s all
about my passion for magic. My hobby, my life
and my work is magic. I know some people do
see it as a job. For me it’s an honour and a
privilege to be able to do what I love and to be
able to sustain a decent living out of doing it.

Will: When you talk about your interest in

magic, and particularly when you’re talking
about the residencies, you seem very aware
about how other people are perceiving you and
your magic. You are also quite active on social
On Penn and Teller's Fool Us
media. What are your thoughts on marketing
for magicians?

270 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 Will: And London Presents… and inspire me to continue the work that I’ve
Laura: London Presents is something I’ve come to love so much. I am also lucky to have
wanted to do for a long time because I feel that been influenced by many of the people I know
London wasn’t hosting many of the incredible and am friends with. Richard McDougall is an
magicians from all around the world. The Magic inspiration because of the way he presents
Circle is amazing but rarely do you see himself and the way he presents his magic.
magicians from afar coming to the UK and Daniel Madison, who is not a magician but a
doing lectures there. I know Christian Engblom consultant on card cheating and deception. He
and Dani DaOrtiz quite well and I was fortunate has helped me realise my potential and I’ve
to spend some time in New York with them learned so much of what I know now from him,
recently. I happened to suggest that they come I’m also very honoured to be the Queen of
to London and do a joint workshop and they Clubs in Madison playing cards. Fay Presto, who
agreed. London Presents will be held in a I spoke about earlier, has had a huge impact on
private room at the Hippodrome Casino and I’m me, especially when it came to learning how to
really looking forward to it. be an entertainer. Maria Cork is another person
from The Circle who I love and is a great friend.
Will: Do you have other people lined up? Maria inspires me because, whenever she
Laura: I have Alex Pandrea from the Blue becomes interested in something, she always
Crown creating a unique workshop just for us works hard to be as good at is as possible and
that will be different from his European tour as a result of her enthusiasm and determination
Laura: I have a saying: “It’s not about the lectures, including the release of something new is talented in so many ways.
magic, it’s about you.” I believe that one on that date. I desperately want to have Bebel
hundred percent. Anyone can learn a simple come over. I think too many missed Will: How about inspirations outside magic?
magic trick in five minutes. Learning to present opportunities have happened here in London Laura: I’m hugely passionate about music,
it well, in my opinion, is a whole different thing. where he’s been very very close and not one which has been a massive inspiration to me on
It is about you and how you present yourself. person has thought to book him or put him out every level. Jim Morrison, the poet, is my hero of
The first thing that people see is you, not your there for a workshop. I want to see my favourite all heroes, above any magician and anyone I’ve
‘trick’. When you approach them, the first words artists in my city. ever met or not yet met. The way he saw the
you say, the way that you look, the person that For info on London Presents and dates please world is the way I would like to think the world
you are and that kind of personality that you check out- should be seen. He was a person who had this
portray are the first things that people judge www.lauralondonmagic.co.uk/londonpresents very punk attitude to the world, not really caring
you on. I think people forget that. too much what other people think. I think I
I think that social media is a great way to Will: Who are your biggest influences from spent so long caring what other people thought
create a buzz and use your image to create that within the world of magic? of me that it actually dulled down my passion.
good impression. It’s not to be used to get gigs Laura: My influences, more recently, have Jim’s attitude was all about doing what you
though. You will never see me saying, “I’ve just been people like Steve Forte and Ricky Jay. Over want and fearing nothing. You should always do
done an amazing gig at the Savoy.” In my mind, the last two years I have been very focused on whatever you think is right, regardless of what
that’s just showing off. I think the classier way perfecting my sleight of hand and learning people think. And as long as you’re a good
of doing things is to be yourself. I particularly gambling techniques. Artists like them fascinate person with it, then you’ll always be ok. l
use Instagram, which allows you to post
pictures, because you can say so much with a
picture. Thanks to the wonderful Etienne Pradier,
I recently had the privilege to perform for the
second time for Prince Charles, I had a great
photograph with him that I’m so proud of. I
don’t need to say “look at me” because the
photo says a thousand words.

Will: You recently released your Card in Bottle

through Ellusionist and also launched a lecture
series called London Presents.
Laura: Yes. I’ve known the guys from
Ellusionist for quite some time, in particular,
Daniel Madison, who’s here in England. I didn’t
intend to release a magic trick, I came up with
a version of card in bottle and, when the
Ellusionist guys saw it, they asked me to release
it. Initially I had reservations but I know the only
way to change people’s opinion on women in
magic is to see that we do create, we can make
things our own and we do take things just as
seriously as anyone else.

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 271

 430. SIGNOR PHILIP RUBINI, THE 1870s AND AMERICA

I n August 1869 Rubini arrived in America on the steam ship City of

Boston, which the following year was to disappear without trace on
her voyage from New York to Liverpool, being finally believed to have
an hour to count! Rubini was then recorded as having left town, but the
same paper the next week carried adverts for his appearance at Odd
Fellows’ Hall, Washington from Monday, 7 March, for six nights.
struck an iceberg. Rubini made his North American debut at the Opera The Memphis Daily Press of Friday, 6 May 1870 reported that “Rubini,
House, Newark, New Jersey, on Wednesday, 1 September, billed as the conjuror, conjured himself out of Atlanta on Thursday night last
“Signor Rubini, the famous Conjurer of the Egyptian Hall, London.” He [presumably Thursday, 28 April], leaving behind him some bogus jewelry
was at this time advertising for “A First Class and several heavy unpaid printers bills.” This now
Business Manager.” Possibly it was the became a habit. Thus he was billed to appear at
It seems he failed to make the big time and there precariousness of Nickerson House Hall, Columbia, South Carolina,
is no mention of the decapitation illusion so on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 May. However, The
presumably that item didn’t accompany him across engagements and Daily Phoenix (Columbia) reported on Saturday,
the Atlantic. Possibly it was the precariousness of scanty audiences that 14 May, that “Rubini, the sleight-of-hand man,
engagements and scanty audiences that led him to led him to extend his evaporated without giving a second performance.
extend his chicanery beyond the stage and to He forgot his printer’s bill in Atlanta, and also
adopt some illegal and morally dubious methods of chicanery beyond the in Columbia. We warn the press and people
operation. The first hint of trouble noted was on 8 stage and to adopt against him.” And three days later, the same
November 1869 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, where some illegal and newspaper added “Rubini attempted to carry
the Cambria Freeman (11 November), in a report out his slippery game in Charlotte, but was
datelined three days previously, reported that the morally dubious checked. Look out for him.”
“wizard Rubini” was being pursued for an unpaid methods of operation To escape his creditors, Rubini seems then to
printer’s bill. There were soon other newspaper have headed north. He appeared as “Signor
reports of unpaid printers’ bills and fines for unlicensed shows; for Rubini, magician,” one of some ten vaudeville acts at the Howard
example on 3 March 1870, the Evening Star (Washington DC) reported Atheneum, Boston, from Monday, 20 June to Saturday, 1 July 1870, by far
that “Signor Rubini, magician, who has been giving exhibitions since the most prestigious American venue found for him (Moulton, 1983).
Monday last in Forrest Hall” in Georgetown, had run into trouble with Probably this engagement was more profitable than his full evening
the law for failure to obtain an entertainments licence for his show. After Boston, the trail went cold until the end of the year, when the
appearance there. He was fined $24.50 (double the licence fee), which New York Clipper reported he had performed in Weisiger Hall, Louisville,
the paper amusingly reported was paid “in small currency and pennies, Kentucky on 26 December 1870.
amounting in all to a considerable pile,” which took the Justice about One week later, on 2 January 1871, he introduced a prize or gift show
style of performance as
disclosed by a displayed
advert for the Masonic
Temple, Nashville,
Tennessee, proclaiming
“Signor Rubini, The Great
European Conjuror” was
offering “Something New –
1000 Prizes Given Away,”
and this format he
continued to employ during
the rest of his career, latterly
usually as a special last
night feature. At Nashville
the top prize on offer was a
“VALUABLE HORSE, worth
$150 – may be seen on the
public streets on Monday.”
Three days later the
Nashville Union & American
The steam ship City of Boston printed this damning report
on the show:

272 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 A RICH CABINET OF
MAGICAL CURIOSITIES
Edwin A Dawes MIMC

The ‘grand prize entertainment’ given by Signor Rubini at Masonic

Temple the other night, is generally conceded to have been one of
the most barefaced and gigantic swindles that ever visited this city.
Every one, according to his advertisement, who attended his show,
should thereby become entitled to a prize of greater or lesser value,
chief among which was a horse valued at $150. After getting in to
the show, ticket holders found that in order to get a chance on the
horse, they had to buy another ticket at a dollar, which many of
them did. Mr Wm Lucky drew the horse, and after the show, Rubini
gave him an order on Watson’s livery stable for said animal (not
dreaming that he would apply for it till morning) when Lucky Then, in the New York Clipper of 31 May 1873, appeared two
repaired at once to the stable for his horse, and was informed that reports, one reporting that “LIZZIE, the wife of Signor Rubini, magician,
no such horse existed in that barn. Thereupon Lucky returned and died at Richmond, Va, May 17” and the other recording “SIGNOR
found Rubini, who had not yet ‘slid,’ when he was informed the RUBINI, magician, performed at Fredericksburg, Va, on May 19, 20,
best thing he could do was to shell out the price of that imaginary Richmond 22, 23, 24.” The loss of his wife doubtless affected him but
horse instanter. Mr Rubini wilted and immediately proceeded in clearly he upheld the tradition that ‘the show must go on’ and he
accordance with instructions. Pass him around. honoured his existing engagements. However, following his wife’s
death, sightings of him in America became sparse, despite the
This animal prize persisted through much of his subsequent career but statement made that he remained there for twelve years and was to be
seems likewise to have been fictitious on some occasions (possibly seen at the principal theatres and opera houses “astonishing the
depending on the state of his finances or the availability of a suitably multitudes who were nightly in attendance.” This claim was made
cheap horse at the time); this resulted in him being briefly jailed at much later in an article titled “Professor Anderson: A Description of his
Leavenworth, Kansas, in December 1872 on a charge of Travels,” which appeared in the Auckland Star
obtaining money under false pretences, but he was By 1884 the gift (4 October 1888) at a time when he was
released after the matter was “settled” (presumably by horse had even appearing in New Zealand, and was clearly an
money changing hands, officially or unofficially!) The exaggeration for publicity purposes, although
Leavenworth Weekly Times of 4 January 1872 “regretted acquired the name many other details in the piece seem reasonably
that he has been allowed to escape so cheaply, since ‘Abracadabra!’ At accurate and we have been able to verify them.
our exchanges say that at St Joseph and other cities he one venue, having Both the New York Clipper and The Era were
has been playing the same game.” used as a poste restante by itinerant performers
By 1884 the gift horse had even acquired the name been won by a and published lists of the names of the
‘Abracadabra!’ At one venue, having been won by a butcher, the local professionals for whom they held letters. In June
butcher, the local paper noted that the horse would be paper noted that the 1874 The Era was holding mail for “P. Rubini’”
“in very capable hands!” Later, in the 1880s, by which and in 1876 the Clipper had mail waiting for
time he was appearing as Professor Anderson in the horse would be “in (variously) “Sig. Rubini” and “P. Rubini.”
Antipodes, it seems the horse was not necessarily a very capable hands!” There had been speculation that Philip
prime specimen. One account from Tasmania tells of the Anderson (Rubini) joined magician Robert
prize dying on its new owner within twenty-four hours of receipt, and it Heller for the latter part of Heller’s Australian and Indian tour in
then costing the winner ten shillings to have the carcass carted away! 1871-72 but, as Waller (1980) stated and McCullagh (1997)
Rubini probably found it advisable, indeed necessary, to cover plenty of conclusively proved, this Professor Anderson was an Australian, Phillip
territory in his tour, and by the summer of 1871 he had evidently progressed C. Davis (1852-1925), who subsequently became a pharmacist.
north again, into Canada this time. The New York Clipper noted that By early 1875 there were sightings of Rubini in England, running
“Prof. Rubini closed a series of performances in St John, New Brunswick, through at least until the end of 1877. The initial question was whether
on June 26” (1871), and there is also an advert from The British Colonist these were of Philip or of some other performer using the Rubini name,
(Halifax, Nova Scotia) for a three-night run by “The Renowned Signor the first such being a note in the Leicester Chronicle of 16 January 1875:
Rubini, the great European Conjuror, from the Egyptian Hall, London” at LEICESTER BOROUGH ASYLUM – On Friday, January 8, Professor
s

the Temperance Hall there, commencing Wednesday, 26 July. Rubini, the illusionist, ventriloquist, and mesmerist, gratuitously

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 273

 THE MAGIC
CIRCLE AWARDS
CEREMONY 2014
Saturday 18 October 2014

What have
Paul Daniels
Debbie McGee
Derren Brown
Marc Almond
Steve Allen
and Harvey Goldsmith
to name just a few, all got in common?
They were all at The Magic Circle Awards Ceremony 2013.
Make sure you’re there this year!

Champagne reception with stunning close-up magic

followed by a star studded stage show and the awards
announcements and presentations

Doors open: 6.30pm Show Starts: 7.30pm

The Magic Circle
12 Stephenson Way
London, NW1 2HD

Ticket price: £30 (inc VAT)

Tickets available from The Magic Circle website
(www.themagiccircle.co.uk)
or call the box office 0871 220 0260

274 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

 gave his entertainment of Chinese, Hindoo, Japanese and other
Eastern illusions, entitled, “Two hours in Wonderland,” during
which he introduced an extensive repertoire of magical illusions. The
tricks were varied and cleverly performed, and the patients
appeared much to appreciate the efforts made to please them, and
many expressed the hope that the conjuror would favour then with
another performance on a future occasion.

If this was Philip, it is the first use by him we have seen of the term
illusionist, the first reference to ventriloquism and mesmerism, and the
first mention of an Eastern style of presentation, all of which might argue
against it being Philip. On the other hand, the title ‘Two hours in
Wonderland’ is a direct lift from John Henry Anderson and (by then) other
members of the Anderson family.
In the following year the Luton Times carried a display advert for a
two-night appearance at Luton Town Hall, on Friday 14 & Saturday 15
January 1876, of “Mr Rubini, the celebrated Illusionist, Ventriloquist and
Wonder Worker,” again with Eastern-style mysteries and with the same
Wonderland title, undoubtedly the same individual as at the Leicester
Asylum.
Further notes of appearances have been found in local newspapers for
the Village Hall, Wigston, Leicestershire, on 14 February 1876, at the Corn
Exchange, Kettering, on 27 & 28 November 1877, and at the Agricultural
Hall, Grantham, on 11 December 1877. All of these sightings since 1875
have been, loosely, in the East Midlands, which is not an area with which
we are aware Philip had any connection.
The clinching evidence that the East Midlands Rubini was not Philip
would seem to come from an advertisement in the Liverpool Mercury on
Saturday, 6 November 1880:

SATURDAY EVENING CONCERTS

CONCERT HALL, LORD NELSON-STREET

TONIGHT (SATURDAY) AND MONDAY, NOVEMBER

6 AND 8, 1880
First Appearance since his return from South Africa, and appearing under the name of Mademoiselle Blanche.
after an absence of six years, of Importantly, this Liverpool engagement in November 1880 is the
PROFESSOR ANDERSON, earliest example we have found of Philip assuming the Anderson name
Son of the late Wizard of the North, in his new and original and claiming to be the son of the Wizard of the North, contrary to the
entertainment, claim by Constance Pole Bayer in her biography The Wizard of the North
THE WORLD OF MAGIC (1990) that Philip assumed the title on John Henry Anderson’s death in
AND 1874, probably because she confuses Philip with Oscar, who, as with his
SECOND SIGHT brother John Henry Anderson Jr, did adopt the title about that time.
It was in the year previous to the Liverpool appearance that widower
The Professor will be assisted by Philip had remarried at Boston, Massachusetts, on 5 November 1879. His
MADEMOISELLE BLANCHE, bride, Louise Waterman, was aged thirty-two, and it was declared a
The Second Sighted Sybil, in her wonderful Performance of second marriage for both parties. She was most usually billed as Louise
SUPERNATURAL VISION Maude and according to information (presumably supplied by Philip) in
an Australian newspaper, she was the widow of an English peer.
This could not be anyone other than Philip (although Oscar Anderson did If that be the case, all that can be said is it has not proved possible to
visit South Africa in the mid-1870s, we know he returned in 1877), and identify any nineteenth-century peer of the realm with family name of
he presumably cannot also have been appearing as Rubini in the East Waterman. This marriage is omitted from the family tree for Philip
Midlands in 1875-77. The final proof came with the discovery of an given by Bayer (1990). l
advertisement in the Lincoln, Rutland & Stamford Mercury on 30
December 1881 placed by Professor Rubini seeking engagements for ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Christmas Entertainments, School Parties and Public Institutions, giving I am greatly indebted to Michael Dawes for his invaluable assistance with
his abode as 42 Highfield Villas, Upper Kent Street, Leicester, an East newspaper searches.
Midlands address that readily relates to the sphere of the impostor’s REFERENCES
conjuring activities. Bayer, C. P. (1990). The Great Wizard of the North. Watertown: Ray
If Philip’s stated absence of six years is reasonably accurate then it Goulet’s Magic Art Book Co.
would suggest Rubini had travelled from America to South Africa, possibly Moulton, H.J. (1983). Houdini’s History of Magic in Boston 1792-1915.
in 1873-74. We also learn he had now acquired a new assistant Glenwood: Meyerbooks.

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 275

 THE ART OF
PSYCHOLOGICAL
ILLUSION THE MIND READERS
Roberto Forzoni MMC

W e are blessed in the UK with some of the most talented and

entertaining mind-reading acts in the world. Derren Brown has
been at the forefront of bringing this form of entertainment to the
As an adolescent, Claude spent much of his time hunting and fishing,
passions that remained with him throughout his life. Travelling shows
visiting his town and regular trips to the magic section of his local library,
masses and remains the world’s leading performer whilst other highly where he discovered Hoffmann’s Modern Magic, fed his curiosity over the
entertaining and equally mystifying UK performers include John Archer, mysteries of life (as did the revealing pictures of women found in his
David Berglas, Luke Jermay, Graham Jolley, Andy Nyman and Marc Paul. father’s medical books) leading to an early fascination with magic (and
Some believe the fashion of Mentalism and psychological illusion is a women). After being expelled from school at seventeen he decided,
recent occurrence. Nothing can be further from the truth and, in this without his parents’ approval, to travel east and by chance found work at
series of short features on the forefathers of this particular type of the famous spiritualist resort of Lily Dale, near Cassadega, NY. It was here
magic, I will be looking at the history of mind-reading acts and that Claude’s magical education really took hold. During his work as a
bringing you intriguing stories (some will astound you) of the successes boat-boy and cleaner he discovered the fraudulent techniques of the
and adventures of some of the leading exponents of this captivating mediums, learning how they did their slate writing, billet switches, rope
and sometimes astounding genre of magic. ties and other tricks of the trade. More importantly he discovered the
psychics’ psychology, which allowed them to turn simple effects into
Alexander The Man Who Knows (1880 – 1954) supposed miracles. Presumably considering a career in magic he visited T
This series of articles starts with one of the most fascinating stories in Nelson Downs (the ‘King of Coins’) after leaving Lily Dale on his way
the history of magic, let alone mentalism. Alexander’s story is west. His nomadic instincts led him to the Alaskan gold rush where a
surrounded by intrigue, controversy and a mixture of fact and fiction long-term friendship with a Greek immigrant, Alexander Pericles
(much generated by Alexander himself). Here was an average magic Pantages, began. It was during his time here that he was suspected of
performer, copying acts from performers including Houdini whilst shooting a swindling gangster Jefferson Randolph ‘Soapy’ Smith, who
striving to find a successful formula. He eventually and almost was apparently out to get Pantages (although many say that the whole
accidentally found fame and a considerable fortune as the world’s story was fabricated to add to the mystery of Alexander). Following work
leading mind-reader. Here was a very driven, focused individual, whose as a faro dealer, an assayer of gold, a cashier and a psychic (telling
strengths included a very good grasp of human psychology, a prospectors where they could find gold), Claude gave his first stage
remarkable understanding of marketing and promotion, an astute performance in 1898. It was not until returning to Seattle in 1902,
financial mind that enabled him to profit from his successes and by however, that Claude decided to make a career as a magician and
amalgamating ideas from anyone and anywhere to create what was he took the name Alexander the Great (after his friend) and
one of the most successful acts of its time. Here was a 1920s performer started performing in vaudeville as a stage illusionist.
who would rig a stage with underground wires to receive electronic Depending on the references you read, Alexander had between
signals, use concealed earpieces under his turban and hidden listening eight and twelve marriages, marrying one woman twice and
devices in the toilets of theatres to gain vital information to be used being married to two women at the same time. He married the
later in his shows. He was also a serial adulterer, with up to twelve first of his wives, Jessie Cullen, in 1902 (divorcing in 1903) and
possible marriages, a bigamist, a suspected murderer, a money tried to develop an act to rival Houdini’s popular escape act. His
launderer and drug smuggler with a significant FBI dossier. Alexander’s second marriage was to Ethel Lyman, whom he met when she
life, as the original man of mystery, was nothing but dull. was only fourteen years old.
Born to Irish immigrants in a small town called Alexandria (Hason Fate would play a significant part in much of Alexander’s life.
County in the Dakota territory, US) on 30 June 1880, Claude Alexander A chance call to leave his hotel in San Francisco early one
Conlin became a master of his trade long before many other performers morning saved his life when the hotel was destroyed in an
saw the potential of a mind-reading act (although he was also earthquake as he crossed the street and it was a blizzard,
influenced by the success of Anna Eva Fay and Sammi Baldwin). He was which stopped the trains transporting his show, that led to
the son of a doctor, Berthold Michael Joseph Conlin (affectionately one of his assistants suggesting he simply do his short
known as BMJ) and Martha Johnson, and grew up mainly in southeast mind-reading set as the main act. Despite his reluctance, he
Alaska. Within the family Claude Alexander was known as “CA” and had little choice in the matter and the success of the
his brother Clarence B was known as “CB.” Clarence B had a ‘prop-less’ show surprised even Alexander. He never looked
successful career as an attorney and also worked as a stage mentalist, back, however, and now in his mid-thirties he discarded the
although his fame never equalled that of his brother Claude. large props and relied on his tremendous skills as a showman

276 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

to put over an act of mind-reading, taking inspiration from, or simply earpieces he could perform extraordinary feats of mind-reading that
copying, other top mentalists of the time including Anna Eva Fay and had never been seen before. Humorously, Alexander suffered from bad
Sammi Baldwin. Despite already being married (and now with a five year nerves before every show, being concerned that the electronics might
old son) he married his third wife, seventeen year old Della Martell in fail (nothing changes!) His show featured many straight magic effects
1907 and returned to San Francisco to act as a psychic, knowing he such as the nest of boxes and vanishing cane, which, as many successful
would have plenty of customers seeking to speak with lost ones from the modern day mentalists would agree, are a fine way to add colour and
previous year’s earthquake. diversity to a mind-reading act. He would also perform Asrah, the Cabinet
To add the sense of mysticism in his stage act, he began wearing a Box and one of his favourite and most successful illusions, Spirit
jewelled turban and performed with a crystal ball as ‘Alexander The Man Painting. A particular feature of this illusion was that Alexander would
Who Knows,’ presenting a quasi-Oriental setting with lavish costumes for ask local politicians, community leaders and doctors (all of whom could
himself and several female assistants. He promoted his psychic act as a not advertise publicly) to pay to have their picture appear in every show.
form of mind-reading and could achieve the most remarkable display the In his early ‘forties, he authored many books and wrote under the
world had ever seen. He also performed as a psychic, using the name name C Alexander. In 1921 he wrote and published The Life And
Astro to distance himself from his stage act, earning more money than he Mysteries Of The Celebrated Dr Q (also known as The Dr Q Book). He
could from stage performances. He married again in 1915 to Lillian also operated a publishing house, the C Alexander Publishing Company
Marion, who would become an integral part of his show, and they were in Los Angeles, California. His company released his own pro-spiritualist
to stay together for fourteen years before she would file for divorce. His and ‘New Thought’ material, including a multi-volume series called The
show at the time consisted of audience members giving Alexander sealed Inner Secrets of Psychology and a booklet for his clients titled Personal
questions which he answered from the stage (fans of Derren will have Lessons, Codes, and Instructions for Members of the Crystal Silence
seen him perform this type of routine in one of his own shows). League. He often ended shows saying “someday psychology will be
Alexander’s mind-reading show became a hit and, at the height of his taught in schools” much to the disbelief of his audiences.
career, he sold out theatres across the United States and Canada for It is reported that Alexander earned around four million dollars during
weeks at a time. He made millions from box office receipts and, having his relatively short career (equivalent to around £150-200 million in
the foresight to side-sell, made even more from the sale of books, crystal today’s money). He dominated the stage for nearly a decade before
balls and related merchandise. (His mail order business had six full-time retiring in 1924, at the age of forty-three, the richest man in vaudeville.
employees posting merchandise.) He travelled the world, and counted In retirement he spent much of his time at his retreat hunting, fishing
show-business luminaries like Alexander Pantages, John Considine, and taking photos of nude women. Through the later hobby he made a
Rudolph Valentine and Clara Bow among his friends. One of his strengths further forty-thousand dollars, selling the images to calendar companies.
was understanding marketing and Alexander was at the forefront of Claude Alexander Conlin died in 1954 aged seventy-four. l
poster designs to promote his stage acts. Some of his designs and
concepts were quite masterful, including detail like eastern words to add REFERENCES
further mysticism, or giving himself a darker ‘Eastern’ complexion. His Charvet, David. Alexander The Man Who Knows. (California: Mike
posters are still very much in demand. Caveney’s Magic Words, 2007).
In terms of innovation it was his use of electronic transmitting devices Beckman, Darryl. The Life and Times of Alexander. (Washington: Rolling
in the act that really catches the imagination. Using his turban to hide Bay press, 1994).

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 277

 T his is my final Secretary’s report as I have
reluctantly decided to step down from this
The Magic Circular
I know how popular The Magic Circular is, as

Secretary’s position (due to an increase in my performing

schedule). I wish my successor all the best and I
will be on hand to ensure a smooth transition.
each month those the postal services have let
down are quick to get in touch. Will Houstoun
continues to delight us each month, we’re very
Annual Report The following report very briefly outlines some
of what we have achieved over the past year,
grateful to all those who contribute.

2013/2014 and the people that we have to thank for it.

The Centre for the Magic Arts are responsible
Publicity
Throughout the year, a large number of
BY STEVE PRICE MIMC for running The Magic Circle Headquarters. We opportunities arise for The Magic Circle to be
are delighted that the number of events and shown to the public in a positive light. I would
hiring income in the financial year ended 31 like to thank Darren Martin for all his work as
March 2014 were both somewhat higher than Public Relations Officer, and of course to the
previous years (despite the building works and Brand, Marketing and Publicity committee.
disruption on Stephenson Way). Our thanks go
to our General Manager, Darren Martin – and Internet/technology
also to the CMA Board, Terry Wright, Peter Kyle, Some of the hardest work at The Magic Circle
Kevin Laxton and David Cheeseman. goes unseen. Those involved with the IT and our
website put in many hours. I’m very grateful to
MEMBERSHIP SERVICES those who understand this technology – to
Returning Officer Andrew Webb who stepped down earlier this
Our thanks and appreciation go to Clive Hyams year, and the team of people who have replaced
for handling the huge task of administering the him – namely David Fung, Lee Hathaway,
Council elections, assisted by his deputy Gordon Katherine Rhodes and Mark Herrick.
Drayson.
Finance
Examinations and Apprentices Our thanks go to Stephen Kennard, who was
Throughout the year The Magic Circle receives a our Treasurer for eighteen months, before
large number of applications for Membership. accepting a job in Amsterdam. Mark Lee
We are very grateful to David Weeks who is stepped in (for which we are incredibly grateful)
responsible for arranging all the interviews and and we are pleased that he will be our Treasurer
examinations. Thanks also go to Hugh for the forthcoming year (elected unopposed).
Nightingale who is David’s deputy. This year has
also seen the introduction of Apprentices. Hugh Welfare and Benevolent
has co-ordinated the introduction magnificently, Rev Tim Saiet joined Rabbi Geoffrey Shisler as
and brought some great ideas including Chaplain at our AGM last year. Having recently
mentors and examinettes. We wish all been appointed as Priest in Charge at St John’s
Apprentices hoping to become Magic Circle Church, Hildenborough, Tim sadly decided that
Members the very best. he cannot devote the time necessary to fulfil the
duties and has reluctantly stepped down.
Regional Representatives Fortunately Rev Peter Liddelow has agreed to
Our Regional Representatives provide valuable resume the position. We are very thankful for all
assistance to The Magic Circle throughout the the work that David Hatch has done as Welfare
year. The UK Representatives are Alan Maskell, Officer this year (David is in regular touch with
Steve Short, Brian Lead, Geoff Ray, Brian thirty-one Members) along with the support of
Dodridge, Robin Maddy, Myles Pollock, Alan the Benevolent Committee.
Taylor, Margaret MacLean, John Southgate and
Amanda Farrell. Thanks go to Keith Churcher Theatre
and Trevor Lewis who stepped down from being As with any theatrical production, there is just
Representatives this year. Our international as much work going on back-stage as onstage.
Representatives are Arthur Emerson, Bruce It is therefore more than appropriate to thank
Kalver, Dale Salwak, Jack Young, Andy Dallas, all our stage crew, headed up by Roy Marsh.
Dan Garret, Alfred Hayes, Joan Caesar, Pat
Fallon, Dr. Andreas Michel-Andino, Domenico HERITAGE
Dante, Mitsunobu Matsuyama and Alan Museum
Watson. Our Museum is something that all our visitors

278 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

are fascinated to see. We thank Scott Penrose EVENTS performers, Richard Pinner and Katherine
as Executive Curator and Tim Reed as his Club Nights Rhodes for producing the shows, and of course,
deputy for all the work they put in. Also we Darryl Rose and the Club Night Committee have all the technical crew and volunteers who gave
need to thank Lionel Russell and Henry Lewis as arranged an excellent and varied programme their time to ensure that we delighted our
Curators Emeritus and the rest of the Curatorial this year. We are grateful to all who have come audiences once again.
team for looking after our very valuable history. and lectured for us, or taken part in any way.
The Magic Circle Experience
Archive Close-up Magician of the Year Henry Lewis and Michael Alderman continue to
Thanks go to David Hibberd for continuing with This year’s winner was James Freedman. Second provide an event on Monday lunchtimes that
his never-ending task of storing and scanning place went to Brendan Rodrigues, with Lewis allow members of the public a tour of the
literally thousands of photographs, programmes, Starnes coming in third. The originality prize Museum, some close-up magic and a short
brochures and letters. He is always tireless in was awarded to Noel Qualter. Thanks to all the stage show. Our thanks to them for giving their
helping – a great resource for us and future competitors and to Richard Pinner and time so freely.
generations. Katherine Rhodes for organising the event.
Friends of The Magic Circle
Library Ali Bongo Saturday Shows The CMA have taken over the running of the
Those of us who use The Magic Circle Library Mandy Davis continues to produce these events Friends scheme. Our thanks to President Jack
value it very much. It is exceptionally organised which are always popular. They coincide with Delvin for his determination to make this work.
and maintained, and this is due to Peter Lane the Young Magicians’ Club workshops thereby We are pleased that it has attracted a large
(Executive Librarian), Terry Wright (Deputy ensuring good houses for all performances. amount of interest.
Librarian) and their team. The presentations on
“My favourite books” continue to be well Dealers’ Day Membership
supported and very interesting. The Annual Dealers’ Day took place in October A big thank you to Peter Scarlett for handling
at the Royal National Hotel. Keith Pain all enquiries to The Magic Circle, and for
Registrar of Memorials co-ordinated the day and has agreed to do so overseeing the Membership Database. One of
Our thanks go to Geoffrey Newton who again this year. We are grateful to Keith for all the biggest jobs each year is processing all the
continues to co-ordinate our Memorial Initiative. his hard work, and to those who supported it renewals. This year Lee Hathaway has put in an
We thank the team who adopt the graves and (whether buying or selling). incredible amount of work – which must not
ensure that magicians of historical significance and should not go unnoticed. Despite the
are not forgotten. Gala Celebration deadline being 31 May, at the time of writing
Once again Katherine Rhodes created a really there are still renewals coming in. These are the
The Magic History Gathering @ The magical evening. Luis de Matos flew in to numbers as at the end of the financial year
Magic Circle receive the David Devant award (for services to (plus twenty-nine Apprentices):
The day was officially opened by Scott Penrose. International Magic). The Maskelyne (for
Michael Symes was then introduced by Eddie services to British magic) went to Paul Kieve, MMC AIMC MIMC TOTAL
Dawes. The second talk was by Pietro Micheli, the Carlton Award for Comedy went to John Town 279 97 109 485
and Richard Evans closed the morning session. van der Put, the John Nevil Maskelyne (for Country 387 133 77 597
Eddie Dawes and Bill Kalush then gave magic literature) was awarded to Juan Tamariz, Overseas 141 75 101 317
presentations in the afternoon. The day was the Cecil Lyle award went to Terry Guyatt and Total 807 305 287
closed with a mini-show performed by Scott the Hoffmann Memorial Lecture award to Brian
Penrose, John Davenport and Anne Goulden. Lead. Silver Wands were also presented to Peter Overall 1399
Thanks as always go to Edwin A Dawes and Liddelow, Dennis Patten and Graham Reed.
Peter Lane for organising another successful Simon Drake was presented with Honorary Finally
event. MIMC Professional. Well, my time is up. I am so grateful to those
who have supported me, both this year and in
Young Magicians’ Club PUBLIC EVENTS the previous two years. I apologise to anyone
The membership of YMC has remained around At Home with The Magic Circle that I have left out of this report – it is not
the 550 mark this year. This is due to the Richard Pinner has overseen the introduction of intentional. If you have contributed to The
enthusiasm and commitment of the team – this new-look event, with Rajan arranging the Magic Circle, your contribution is appreciated.
Kevin Doig (Chair), Clive Hyams (Secretary), Parlour performances. These have been very I wish the new Council, and The Magic Circle
Stephen Kennard – later Dave Andrews (Treasurer), well received and well attended. as a whole, all the very best for the future. l
Katherine Rhodes (Workshops) and Steve Dela.
Steve is moving away from London, and his The Magic Circle Christmas Show
contribution will be greatly missed – but we are Always popular; always sold out. This year’s
thankful for all he has contributed over the years. show ran for sixteen performances and made a
Mandy Davis continues to edit Secrets magazine. profit of £44,000. Huge thanks go to all the

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 279

 OBITUARY

Alan Alan: 1926-2014 at the most prestigious international venues. idea of why they were there Alan was a master
Remembered by Richard McDougall In later years, Alan worked in a number of salesman because he would not sell you
Alan Alan was born Alan Rabinowitz on magic shops, notably for Harry Stanley and anything if he felt it was not suitable, even if
November 30 1926. The youngest of four Tommy Cooper, where his methodical attention this sometimes led to conversations of almost
brothers, his life in show-business was to detail ensured that ‘simple tricks’ looked like Pythonesque illogical logic.
decided after seeing performances by Dante magic. He developed many of his own tricks, It was here that so many of us came and
at the age of twelve in the Manchester including Sharpshooter, Tom Thumb Sword Box began our student/teacher relationship, when
Hippodrome. Some seventy years later, he and Duzzit Card and improved and routined we were all in our early teens, and he was the
was able to recall the majesty of Dante’s many others, including Dual Control, Acrobatic age most of us are now. He was semi-retired,
show in extraordinary detail, but was still Matchbox, I’ll Start Again and Burnt Note to but still taking bookings at vast fees. Leaning
most impressed by the man himself and the Wallet. Whilst not a sleight of hand expert, with over his counter full of booby traps, and
aura he created onstage to produce a his understanding of how the mind worked and surrounded by boxes of magic tricks
magnificent piece of theatre. Indeed, when how situations were perceived, he was able to interspersed with practical jokes, we stood for
asked for his definition of magic in later life, create whimsical presentations that were hours listening to the advice of someone who
Alan replied in his typically precise and layered with exquisite mental misdirection. He had ‘been there and done it.’ Despite the joke
economical way: “Magic is theatre...and went on to open his own magic shop with pin through his nose or head, we feared him a
theatre is magic.” another of our Members, the late Joe Elman, little, as he was bluntly opinionated and surgical
Alan began his own performing life with called The Magic Spot, near Russell Square in in his dissection of performers. Noel Britten
an act of general magic, presented to London. Despite his legendary brusqueness with caught it perfectly: asking his opinion about
rhyming patter, and had success at numerous anyone who entered the shop without a clear your act was like bleeding near a shark. But he
talent shows. It was not until he was
seventeen that he started performing for
ENSA with an escape act, a branch of magic
which was to take the boy from Manchester
all over the world.
There were many highlights for Alan, some
emerging from terrible situations. His early
attempt at a buried alive stunt, captured by
Pathe and available on YouTube, nearly went
fatally wrong. It was this piece of film,
however, that was seen by Reggie Dennis, a
promoter, who spotted Alan the following
day on Charing Cross Road and immediately
offered him a major contract. More followed,
many in different circus troupes around the
world, where his electrifying mixture of
humour, danger and sheer drama ensured he
became top of the bill, and one of the
highest paid speciality acts in the world.
Hanging handcuffed and tied upside-down
from a burning rope dangling from a
helicopter, or spinning and twisting to escape
his chains in a circus tent over a ring full of
lions, or spotlit in an arena in front of 30,000
rapt people the image became iconic, maybe
even surpassing his hero Houdini.
Alan worked with the best and listened to
their advice. He finessed his act close to
perfection, always with an eye to
communicating with his audience so that
they cared about the person who they saw
above them. Consequently he was judged to
be the best, winning The Gold Medal in The
Circus World Championships and working for
the best, including crowned heads of Europe

280 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

cared; he cared about the standard of and his book The Magic Book was the spark
performance and was enthralled by details of an that initiated my friendship with him.
act and the qualities of the performer. Thirty-seven years on, as I contemplate my
His mind was intensely analytical and it was life since Alan’s death, my sadness has been
this approach that has left the deepest mark on replaced with love and immense gratitude for
those that knew him well. He introduced us all everything he shared and taught me: about
to a way of thinking about magic, be it a magic, performance, life and people.
moment in a routine or a complete act. “We are in the communication business.
Conversations would last many hours over the Magic is just a vehicle and means for
introduction of an extra beat or half beat, communication and your authentic
whether that was silent or spoken, and he self-expression.” Alan said those words to me
would back his views up by sitting us in front of A Tribute from David Copperfield as a teenager and would reinforce his
tapes of giants of theatre such as Sinatra, Alan Alan was one of the world’s great philosophies over the years and time that I
Pavarotti, Piaf or Judy Garland. Hands on the showmen. He understood the importance of knew him.
remote, he would freeze frame on a moment, timing, clarity, comedy and suspense... all When he introduced me to Cy Endfield,
purring at what he had just seen, and ask us to knowledge learned from decades of Slydini, Derek Dingle and Harry Lorayne I saw,
identify why these moments worked. It took experience performing in the real world. first hand, the power of communication and
time for the penny to drop for most of us, but it I learned of him through the man who self-expression live. I was inspired by the
was the most intoxicating feeling when it did, gave me my chance, the man who discovered possibility of this experience.
and we would watch some more, though rarely me, Joe Cates. Joe knew Alan from his years Alan was and will always be the greatest
was it magicians. producing circus specials for television and, teacher I have ever known and the best
Alan knew and performed with the best of when CBS requested that we add a guest friend I have ever had.
them – including Kaps, Pollock, Cardini, star to round out my TV special, it was Joe As I write this tribute, I am very clear about
Richiardi Jnr and David Copperfield – all who sent for Alan. I was delighted. We the next stage of my life, to promote magic
kindred spirits in the pursuit of excellence. They, became fast friends and I viewed him as and to coach and mentor committed and
in turn, all recognised the impact his theatrical someone to call on for wisdom or advice on dedicated students in the same way I was
performances had on an audience. He passed anything I was working on. mentored by Alan. This will be the best way I
on his ideas and approach to any magician that Decades later I was working on an know to honour myself and Alan’s memory
would listen and evaluate his carefully chosen upside-down escape of my own. I and legacy.
words. immediately called Alan to ask his permission
In later years Simon Drake, Neil Rousseau and for an important moment of drama that was A Tribute from Noel Britten
Chris Wood, along with Noel Britten, myself a key element to his escape. It was the Whatever level of success I have achieved is
and, of course, his favoured son Michael moment where he was almost free from almost wholly attributable to Alan Alan, and
Vincent, of whom he was so proud, all came everything, then climbed up to release his that is applicable as much in magic as it is in
back for more. The very fact that we all chose feet only to get burned from a flaming ember, comedy and my personal life too. Advice, bon
such vastly differing performing styles but still causing his entire body to suddenly fall back mots, and ‘Alanisms’ were so drilled in over
applied his ideas is evidence that Alan’s truths to hanging again. Powerful drama. He the years, in the most subtle of ways, that
were universal. generously agreed to let me do it. they subsequently became mantras and the
Alan was a massive supporter of The Magic I’m blessed and proud to have had Alan as bedrock of a way of thinking that has stood
Circle, both vocally and financially, and it is my friend and now thrilled and honoured to me in good stead throughout life. Hours
fitting that he was the main Benefactor for The keep his legacy alive in my museum for future spent listening to him in my teenage years,
Theatre itself. He was rightly awarded both the generations. and in discussion as I grew older, are some of
Maskelyne and MIMC (Professional) in recognition my happiest memories. He championed high
of his outstanding contribution to magic. A Tribute from Michael Vincent standards and his striving to improve
Alan toured with Richiardi Jnr in South When a great teacher in any field passes performance by finessing and tweaking small
America, and offered some closing words for away, a void is left. If the teacher has elements of any act or routine was endless –
the maestro’s grand guignol sawing a lady in impacted the lives of others in a positive way and rightly so. Improve your act by just one
half. Richiardi loved them and used them from then the void left behind will be filled with percent a day and in just over two months
then on. Once the audience had passed by the power, purpose and intention. your act will be twice as good. To someone
eviscerated parts of his assistant and returned Alan Alan’s legacy will be remembered, who lived, ate and drank theatre, nothing
to their seats Richiardi said: “Don’t ask me how revered and promoted by his many students was too much trouble or effort if it improved
I did it, but rather, did I do it well?” who had the privilege of learning at The Altar the performance. A “that’ll do” mentality was
Alan, you did it supremely well. of Enlightenment, The Magic Spot. I walked an anathema to him and he couldn’t sit by
Alan Alan died on 4 July 2014. He is survived into his shop when I was thirteen years old silently if confronted by it. My debt to him, his
s

by his brother Maurice. and a brief conversation about Harry Lorayne analysis and his mentorship is monumental.

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 281

 Charles Cambra: 1924-2014
s
pouring Greenware. Charles even mastered great-great-grandson; and several nieces and
Remembered by John Henry classical guitar, flawlessly playing such difficult nephews. Charles was predeceased by his
Charles Cambra, aged ninety, died on Monday, pieces as Leyenda and Malagueña. daughter, Alice Cambra; a step-daughter, Alida
July 7, 2014 at Apple Rehab Coccomo in Meriden, But his first love was magic, studying under Desimone; and son-in-law, Ralph Desimone.
after a brief illness. Charles was predeceased by the tutelage of world-renowned magician
Marie (Terry), his beloved wife of sixty years. Slydini. For more than sixty years, Charles and Bernard Stanley Rasmussen
Charles was born on Feb. 29, 1924 in Fall Terry were a world-class magic act, known as Remembered by Ken Rasmussen
River, Mass, where his loving aunt Mary Brazao Señor Carlos and Terry, and he was featured on We regret to announce the death of Bernard
raised him. the cover of The Linking Ring in November Stanley Rasmussen, aged ninety-four, on 1
He worked for Suzio Construction Company 2001. Charles was a life member of the Society February 2014. He had been a Magic Circle
in Meriden for thirty-four years, driving a of American Magician Assemblies #15 and Member for over fifty years. Bernard was born
company truck and maintaining the grounds at #127, Order of Merlin, International in Cleethorpes and gained his first experiences
the quarry and Suzio home, forming a lifelong Brotherhood of Magicians Ring #59, and an of magic on the beaches there where he started
friendship before retiring in 1985. MIMC gold star Member of the Magic Circle. to learn card tricks. He soon became a Member
Charles acquired all that he pursued through Charles also belonged to the Magic Collectors of the Magic Circle. He maintained his passion
high expectations and incredible work ethic, Association, the New England Magic Collectors for magic during a busy career which saw him
striving for perfection in all of his endeavours. Association and the New Magicians Club. serving in the army during and after the war
For his children’s weddings, he attended a class He is survived by two daughters, Lesley and then working for the Post Office (now BT),
on the art of cake decorating, and each cake he Lusteg, and her husband, Walt, and Jeanne always becoming a committed member of local
made was more magnificent than the last. His Cosenza, and her husband, Christopher; a son, magical groups whenever possible.Bernard was
motto for everything was: “Practise, practise, Charles D. Cambra, and his wife, Colleen; a more interested in the methods of magic than
practise.” step-daughter, Shirley, and her husband, John; in performing. Although he would regularly
He loved ceramics, earning more than three and a step-son, Art George; fifteen show new tricks once to his family and friends
hundred moulds from a friend’s studio by grandchildren, thirty-two great-grandchildren; a he did not get involved much in giving magic

THE MAGIC
CIRCLE CARES
David Hatch MMC

By the time this is published most readers visit his son in New Jersey and the column please do not hesitate to contact me
will have learned of the sad death of Alan physiotherapist has given him the ok. Ken Lee if you need help in contacting a fellow Member.
Alan MIMC. I only really knew him as the MMC may need further heart surgery, but sends I will continue to include contact details for
man with the nail through his head at the his good wishes to those Members who still relatives and non-Members where necessary.
Magic Spot in Southampton Row, but it is remember him. Leslie Gerard AIMC is awaiting
clear from the obituary in the Telegraph that kidney surgery at Saint Mary’s hospital, which If you hear of Members or their families who
he was an outstanding magician and escape he hopes will be carried out in early August. are sick or facing hard times please contact:
artist in his day – some even felt he was David Hatch MMC (Welfare Officer)
better than Houdini. Finally, I have just heard that Olive Fletcher 6 Darnley Road, Woodford Green,
MMC is in hospital in Glasgow having broken Essex IG8 9HU
It is always nice when there is more good her leg in a fall. We send best wishes to Olive T 020 8504 4134
news to report than bad. This is one of those and her daughter Moira Fletcher AIMC. E WelfareOfficer@TheMagicCircle.co.uk
months. Alan Astra MIMC tells me he is
feeling fit and well again apart from a few Just a thought: “Life is like riding a bicycle. To Chaplaincy:
aches and pains after his surgery, and it is keep your balance, you must keep moving.” Revd Peter Liddelow AIMC
good to see him and Barbara again on Albert Einstein 23 Kings Road, Barnet,
Monday evenings. Janet Clare MIMC had Herts, EN5 4EF
her recovery complicated by infection but is The latest welfare news can be found on T 020 8441 2968
gradually improving. Keith Cooper MIMC www.themagiccircle.co.uk where ‘Welfare’ is a E Chaplain@TheMagicCircle.co.uk
has made a rapid recovery from gall bladder sub-section of ‘Club Room’. Contact details for Rabbi Geoffrey Shisler AIMC
surgery and is feeling close to 100% again. Members can also be found on the website 10 St Petersburgh Place, Bayswater,
Tony Western MIMC is home and in good under ‘Membership List’. Although space London W2 4LB
spirits. Eddie Dawes MIMC had the plaster considerations make it impossible to include the T 020 7229 6215
removed from his wrist just before a trip to contact details of all those mentioned in this E Geoffreyshisler@TheMagicCircle.co.uk

282 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

shows. His knowledge, however, was
extensive and he was very generous with his
time helping members of the groups that he
joined. In one case, for example, he was able
to refer a fellow member to the
REVIEWS
documentation for a particular rope trick Will Houstoun MIMC
which had proved difficult to trace. On
another occasion, he was able to help
another member, who was also a policeman,
to solve a crime by lending him some books
on money swindles. Although he did not
travel far (apart from his war service) Bernard
enjoyed going to magic conventions and went
to several most years, invariably returning
with books and tricks that he had bought. He
was a lover of books and acquired, read and
learned from many books on magic. At his
request, these have been passed onto the two
clubs he was a member of, The Nottingham
Magicians Guild and the Derby Magic Circle. DECEPTIVE PRACTICE Windowless Room,” a piece which whilst
The books were sold, raising over £5,000 to by Ricky Jay barely including any magic still feels magical
be shared between the two clubs.He is 88 min DVD. $29.95 (£17.80) from your and highlights Jay’s extraordinary ability as a
survived by his wife of seventy-one years, favourite dealer. Dealers contact Murphy’s speaker.
Joan, and by his son and daughter. l Magic supplies, www.MurphysMagic.com. Deceptive Practice is available online as a
Reviewed by Will Houstoun download but, if you are going
to get it, I would strongly
For many people who read recommend the
The Magic Circle Library this magazine the name DVD which

MY FAVOURITE Ricky Jay will be enough of a

reason to dash out and buy
features
several
BOOKS this DVD. If you are one of
those people then don’t wait to
bonus items.
These
read the rest of the review – include a
just go out and buy it. If not read fascinating
A series of occasional 30 on to find out why you should get recording of a
minute talks given by a copy too. Q&A with Jay, a
individual members of It is well worth noting that previously unreleased
The Magic Circle Deceptive Practice is not a magic piece of footage form his
instructional DVD. Instead it is a 52 Assistants show and
about their favourite books documentary on one of the best living discussions with both Jay and some of the
on Magic. magicians, Ricky Jay, that is targeted at the other contributors to the documentary.
public. Don’t let this fool you into thinking As a magician it is wonderful to sit down
The next talk will be given by that there is nothing for you to learn from the with Deceptive Practice and see the subject
disc, however, there is plenty. you love treated with such interest, depth
The documentary traces Jay’s own career, and respect. I would imagine that a
MICHAEL SYMES MIMC
starting with his magical apprenticeship to non-magician who watched the film would
his grandfather and following through his discover a new interest and respect for magic
on interest in card technique, history and many through a novel appreciation for its depth.
Monday 20 October 2014 of the American masters of the twentieth This makes Deceptive Practice a DVD that it is
at 6.30 pm century. Along the way Jay shares his very easy to recommend.
in the Library. memories of the magicians who most
influenced him – performers like Slydini, Al MAGICIAN’S CHOICE
Flosso, Dai Vernon, Cardini and Charlie Miller. by Todd A Gipstein
Library: 020 7387 1533 To help tell his story, Jay’s contemporaries 368 page softbound book. $17.96 (£10.65)
library@themagiccircle.co.uk and collaborators also take to the screen and, available from www.amazon.com
during the course of the film, you will see Reviewed by Will Houstoun
fascinating interviews with people like Persi
Diaconis, David Mamet and Michael Weber. Todd A. Gipstein’s new novel, Magician’s
Of course the story is embellished with Choice, is a piece of historical fiction focused
performances from Jay. A particular highlight on the life and career of fictional magician
s

is his recital of the poem “The Game in the Guy Borden. Set in the middle of the

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 283

twentieth century it begins when Guy’s mother Ling Soo posters to pack a prop in a scene that
gives him tickets to see Blackstone Sr. will remind any collector of the horror stories of
performing in a local theatre for a birthday Davenport’s packaging. In a later conversation
present. A chance meeting with Blackstone in Vernon is given the line: “You guys act like I’m a
his father’s barbershop sees Guy learning his professor or something.” These moments do not
first magic trick and sets his life on a new take away from the flow of the book but do
course as he seeks fame in New York’s give occasional pause for magical enjoyment.
theatre scene. Another pleasing feature of the book is an
Along his journey to stardom Guy’s life does introduction written by Gay Blackstone –
not always go as planned. After moving to New something that only highlights the skill with
York and beginning to develop his career Guy which Gipstein has woven real and fictional
leaves America to serve with the army in The elements in his story.
Second World War. After being injured whilst A particularly pertinent magical reference is
heroically attacking German soldiers he is sent to the traditional magician’s bottom drawer.
back to Texas and discharged from the army. His Gipstein writes: “All magicians have a box or a
journey back to the East Coast is interrupted drawer where they discard tricks – a graveyard
when he happens to encounter a travelling of shattered dreams. But as bad as the tricks
carnival and he is soon travelling the southern may be, magicians can never bear to throw
states performing a carnival magic show them away. Perhaps they hope that left alone in
alongside a diverse cast of unusual and the dark, and given time, the tricks will emerge
eccentric characters. From this unexpected someday and live up to the promise of wonder. on, weren’t the boxes the other way round
position Guy’s dream to work the New York One of the greatest illusions all magicians beforehand? That is odd.” In many ways Lubor’s
theatres is rekindled and the remainder of the perform is the triumph of hope over gift is closer to a puzzle than a magic trick, and
novel sees him struggle to achieve his dream disappointment.” I am willing to bet that nobody puzzlement rather than astonishment seems to
in a post-vaudeville era that is very different who buys a copy of Magician’s Choice will be the kind of reaction a performance of the
to the one in which Blackstone’s show first consign it to their drawer of disappointment. effect is likely to receive.
amazed him. If all you receive is, at the end of the day, a
Gipstein himself is an amateur magician and, LUBOR’S GIFT puzzle, then the best part of $100 may well be
throughout Magician’s Choice, magician readers by Lubor Fiedler more than you are willing to pay. If, on the
will notice pleasing details that are based on his Custom made props with 16 min instructional other hand, you have already got a great idea
magical knowledge. Real magicians such as DVD. $99.95 (£59.40) from your favourite for how you want to use a quality set of gozinta
Blackstone and Dai Vernon play important parts dealer. Dealers contact Murphy’s Magic boxes, or find yourself inspired by the demo
in the story and other characters, such as a supplies, www.MurphysMagic.com. video for Lubor’s Gift, then your money will be
Chinese magician who is not all that he seems, Reviewed by Will Houstoun well spent on a high quality prop that will look
are clearly inspired by real magicians even good and should last well.
though they are heavily fictionalised. In Lubor’s gift is a high-quality update of Lubor
addition, little magical in-jokes and references Fiedler’s classic gozinta box effect. For anyone ANGEL KILLER
that will be familiar to magic enthusiasts are who is unaware of the original the effect, in the by Andrew Mayne
scattered throughout the text. In one scene an simplest terms, is that a large box is opened 353 page softbound book. $14.99 (£8.90)
assistant in Tannen’s magic shop uses Chung and a smaller box is removed from inside. The available from www.amazon.com
small box is then opened when, bizarrely, the Reviewed by Will Houstoun
large box is put inside it and the lid of the small
box is closed. Somehow the large box fits Anyone who purchases a copy of Angel Killer
perfectly inside the small one. expecting to learn the kind of magic featured in
Most existing versions of the trick are not previous publications such as Illusion FX or
made to a high quality and are often quite Shock Magic, or even on Mayne’s television
small. Lubor’s Gift, in contrast, is manufactured show, Don’t Trust Andrew Mayne, will be sorely
by Alan Wong to a very high standard and has disappointed. Instead Angel Killer marks the
been made in a size that would be visible on mass market launch of another facet of Mayne’s
stage. The boxes are both made of a thick creativity – his work as an author of fiction.
laminated card and the ‘large’ box has been Following the style of popular authors such
decorated to look like a shipping box whilst the as Minette Walters or Patricia Cornwell, Angel
‘small’ one appears to be a gift box. When you Killer is a book that will have you compulsively
buy Lubor’s Gift you even get a selection of the turning the pages till the very end. Starring
stickers that you would find on a parcel that Jessica Blackwood, a retired magician who now
you can apply to the outer box if you choose to. works as an FBI agent, the plot focuses on her
Probably the biggest problem with Lubor’s involvement in the hunt to track down a
Gift is the strength of the effect itself. This is murderer known as the Warlock. During the
definitely not a punchy trick with a big ‘wow’ course of the investigation Blackwood’s magical
moment. Instead the kind of response, as knowledge marks her out as the star of the
illustrated even in the performance segments on investigation, thanks to the elaborate trickery
the instruction DVD, is much closer to: “Hang involved in the Warlock’s murders – each of

284 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

which is presented as a seemingly impossible parents over the way in which he performs his
occurrence. The very first murder, without giving magic. Over the course of just over three
too much of the plot away, involves a victim hundred and fifty pages the three groups collide
who was killed two years previously being into a story that includes the traditional fights
found murdered for a second time as she and car chases of the thriller with the
clawed her way out of her own grave. Treating organisation of one last big magic show.
this, and other similar scenes, as magical effects When reading mainstream thrillers by authors
Blackwood is able to figure out the Warlock’s such as James Patterson I am fascinated by the
modus operandi, destroying the mythical way in which just a few paragraphs completely
reputation he builds with the public and capture your imagination, compelling you to
gradually tracking him down. read, to the exclusion of all other activities, until
Reading from a magical point of view it is the book has been finished. Unfortunately I did
pleasing to recognise any number of details of not find that Bullet Catch caught my attention
the magic world that Mayne has portrayed as much as I might have liked – it took the best
accurately – even the magician characters, The REL Change is, as Michael Brewer says, on part of a hundred pages before I felt I wanted to
whilst clearly fictional, hold a strong enough the introduction to the instructional DVD a know what was going to happen in the story.
relationship to the subculture we know to feel variation on Arthur Trace’s Relativity Change. In The feature of the book that I found most
real. It is also an interesting experience to try effect the performer shows a single card, held interesting was, unfortunately for the book’s
and treat the descriptions of the various crimes perpendicular to the deck, and with a slight flick chances of success with the general public, one
as effects and then pause to see if a method that card changes. The change looks clean, which is very much based on my own interest in
although there are some restricted angles, and magic. In the book there are appearances by
the move is efficient in its construction. real magicians, such as Whit Hayden, under their
Brewer does a good job of clearly teaching own name as well as more prominent characters
the move and, after explaining the basic who may well be inspired by real magicians. For
change, describes variations which allow the example, two of the main characters in the book
move to be performed as a multiple colour are described as pioneers of television magic
change, as a final visual phase for an ambitious and are named Mike and Nora Watson – I am
card routine, as a load for a card to box and sure you can guess which real life magicians I
even as a change of another flat object such as connect them with. Of course that is not to say
a banknote. All the variations are clever, that the Wilsons were actually involved in
although some are fairly obvious, and they will anything like the characters in the novel, but
be enjoyable to play with. there was a certain pleasure in imagining a
The problem I have with the REL Change is parallel universe in which people you know lead
nothing to do with the quality of the move or very different lives.
the teaching but with the way in which it has Unfortunately, whilst Bullet Catch does hold
been released. Arthur Trace’s original move was some interest, it is not as strong as other similar
published in Genii in April 2006 and the REL books that are available. l
Change seems like a move that would have
been a wonderful follow-up item to publish in
the magazine. It might also be something good
to include in a large collection of work. As a
stand alone item, however, it falls foul, to me, of
can be thought of before reading further. the one-trick DVD syndrome. Had I read it in a
There have been several fictional books magazine I would have been thrilled. Seeing the
written by magicians, although often they fail to move as a stand-alone DVD, despite the low
live up to the quality of writing set by their price, I can’t help but think it is being somewhat
mainstream counterparts. There are also several overplayed.
books, by mainstream authors, that feature
magic with various degrees of credibility. With BULLET CATCH
Angel Killer, Andrew Mayne is perhaps the first by Scott Jenkins
magician to write a book that lives up to the 358 page softbound book. $14.99 (£8.90)
standards of well known authors of thrillers available from www.amazon.com
whilst utilising his authentic magical knowledge Reviewed by Will Houstoun
to create something that I think both magicians
and the wider public will enjoy. Bullet Catch is a thriller loosely inspired by John
Mulholland and his experiences with the CIA
THE REL CHANGE during the Cold War. The book starts with three
by Michael Brewer seemingly separate threads: the murder of a
22 min instructional DVD. $12 (£7) from your long-retired spy; the exploits of a mysterious
favourite dealer. Dealers contact Murphy’s killer who singlehandedly breaks into a highly
Magic supplies, www.MurphysMagic.com. guarded compound; and the bickering between
Reviewed by Will Houstoun a gigging magician and his television star

www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2014 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR 285

 MINUTES

Wednesday 9 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE MEETING on 3 June 2014 were approved regarding CMA staffing. StP remain as events for TMC and
HELD ON WEDNESDAY with amendment. Proposed by SP, read out a statement from the YMC Members and their family
9 JULY 2014 AT THE MAGIC seconded by KR. All in favour. CMA’s HR Director explaining and friends, RP proposed the
CIRCLE’S DEVANT ROOM the formal process undertaken. recommendations should be
6.30 – 10.15P.M 4. MATTERS ARISING & MAIL accepted. KD seconded. All in
LIST MATTERS viii Noel Britten has asked Council favour with two abstentions
PRESENT The need for Security outside on to consider holding a Memorial (SP & MD). RP suggested that
Jack DELVIN Club nights will be re-evaluated service for Alan Alan at TMC regular reports be fed back to
Alan MASKELL (Chair) towards the autumn. HQ on 1 September. All in Council as to progress being
Scott PENROSE 2015 marks the 40th Anniversary favour. CNC to liaise and agree made towards implementing the
Mark LEE of Prince Charles being a TMC timings and logistics. recommendations. MB suggested
Mandy DAVIS member. PRO is handling this. that a short summary of the report
Kevin DOIG A donation in memorium has 6. RENEWALS UPDATE be circulated to members via the
Keith PAIN been offered towards the new LH reported that the renewals Circular, the email list and on the
Richard PINNER screens in the clubroom. SP to liaise process is going well. Council members’ area of the website.
Marvin BERGLAS with the donor. thanked LH for his commitment and
Darryl ROSE The work has been carried out for doing an excellent job. A period 9. HS2
Steve PRICE on the grave of Horace Goldin. of grace has been allowed for late RP reported that there is no further
Fay PRESTO renewals and Council members are news at this time as the Select
Katherine RHODES 5. SECRETARY’S REPORT prompting those latepayers they Committee is starting with
Lee HATHAWAY i Apprentices: Dominic Green, know. Council confirmed that petitioners from Birmingham first
David FUNG Luke Perry, Alexander anyone who has not renewed by and working towards London. At
Andrew EBORN (from 9.04pm) Borthwick, Paul Longhurst, the end of August will be ineligible some point within the next 2-5
Jenny MAYERS Leon Thomson, Lee Palmer to vote and will have to pay the years we are likely to have to
(Minutes Secretary) ii New Members: See attached re-admission fee set out in the consider our options but there is
schedule rules. too much uncertainty at present so
1.APOLOGIES iii Reinstatements: Troy Von we cannot make any plans in the
Hugh Nightingale; Scheibner, Shane West, Duncan PROSPECTIVE RULE CHANGE near future.
Geoffrey Durham Hector ML ran through a number of
iv Resignations: None prospective Rule Changes to bring 10. MONDAY
2.DEATHS v Promotions: Troy Von Scheibner to the membership. Those which NIGHTS/SUMMER SCHOOL
The deaths of Alan Alan MIMC AIMC*, Chris Wardle MIMC, had the support of Council will be DR reported that Summer School
Honorary Professional, and Roger Gary Jones MIMC*, Will Gray published in advance of the AGM. has started in the Devant room and
Bernheim were reported. MIMC*, Dal Sanders MIMC* a varied programme was planned.
Members of the Council stood in vi Correspondence: Peter 8. TMC/CMA REPORT It was noted that a recent lecture
silence as a mark of respect. Liddelow thanked the Council The Council thanked ML, MB, GD was of a disappointing standard
for accepting him as Chaplain and AE for their report. but that this could not have been
3. MINUTES again. Following clarification that the Ali foreseen given the reputation of
The minutes of the meeting held vii Michael Alderman had written Bongo Saturday Shows would the lecturer. Reference was also

286 THE MAGIC CIRCULAR SEPTEMBER 2014 www.TheMagicCircle.co.uk

made to sexist comments made by of this meeting.
another recent lecturer. FP proposed we reinstate a
former member whose health is
EVENT FOR MEMBERS OF in decline. AE seconded. All in
MORE THAN 50 YEARS favour. The Welfare team will be
STANDING asked to handle this sensitively.
John Hill has suggested that such
an event might be appropriate and The Chairman reported receipt of
has written some questions for a letter concerning a now former
inclusion in the Circular. member’s Facebook postings.
These postings included
PROPOSED COUNCIL DATES several incorrect and
2015 unsubstantiated statements
A list of proposed dates for Council which claimed to be based on
meetings was circulated, discussed discussions with “several
and amended. eminent members”. The
Chairman sought and received
ROBERT HARBIN’S PORTRAIT confirmation that no Council Our Headquarters
The Council thanked the museum member had been part of such
team for taking prompt action and discussions. Conventions
for working on a suitable DRESS CODE
replacement display. The portrait THE MEETING CLOSED AT Smart attire is required at all events in the Headquarters.
will remain in storage for the 10.15PM. NEXT MEETING: MOBILE PHONES
time being. THURSDAY 7 AUGUST Please ensure that you switch off your mobile phone before
6.30PM – DEVANT ROOM entering the Headquarters. If you must make a phone call, please
14. ANY OTHER BUSINESS do so outside the building.
KD had submitted a report from The NEW MEMBERS ON PHOTOGRAPHY AND SOUND RECORDING
Young Magicians Club in advance WEDNESDAY 9 JULY 2014: The use of any form of recording equipment, audio or visual,
of the meeting and had sought including cameras and mobile phones, is not permitted in any
part of the Headquarters except by special arrangement.
Council’s views of a proposal made
GUM
for a new website for YMC. It was Please refrain from chewing gum of any sort in the Headquarters.
felt that the TMC I.T. Committee SMOKING
should look at the proposal and Smoking is not allowed anywhere in the Headquarters.
present thoughts to YMC. It was We all benefit from these conventions, so please respect and
recognised that KD wants to get abide by them to avoid being turned away. Thank you for your
the development of the website understanding.
moving so it was agreed to ask
the I.T. committee to submit
their thoughts within a week

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 numerous magicians to join The Magic Circle; several of whom say he

FORTHCOMING inspired them to take up magic in the first place. There will be some
amusing anecdotes, but the accent will be firmly on providing an

CLUB EVENTS evening of magical pleasures.

September Monday 29
FIELDING WEST
The main purpose of this lecture is to try to broaden the attendees view
SEPTEMBER 2014 and perception of comedy and its place in their magic show.
1 Fielding will begin by lecturing on Johnny Thompson’s “Wings of
Warsaw” dove production and his contribution to the improvement
of the harness and the production. This lecture will also be

T he Headquarters is open on Club Nights from 3:00pm until

10:30pm. Unless otherwise stated, events start promptly at
7:30pm and are scheduled to finish between 8:45pm and 9pm.
beneficial to the non-dove worker for he will show several
additional uses for the harness and how to use the harness to
produce bottles, flowers, money and a glass of liquid.
Club Nights are principally for Members, so entry is by Membership 2 Fielding will teach a “slow” vanish with a large coin.
Card. A bona fide magician guest may attend any evening that is not 3 Fielding will revisit Keith Clark’s cigarette moves to show a
marked ‘Members Only’ on condition that he or she is able to show spontaneous way to put a cigarette, golf pencil or a crayon
membership of a magical society. A non-magician guest may only through a coin.
attend evenings that are marked as ‘Show’. Guests may only attend 4 Next, he will demonstrate a one-handed finger-ring vanish and
two evenings a year. No guest may attend unless booked in advance. If share its many applications in close-up work.
you wish to bring a guest, please email cma@themagiccircle.co.uk. All 5 Then he will demonstrate the dye-tube work he learned from
guests must pay a £15 entry fee at the door and respect our Dai Vernon and his own personal work on how to use the
Conventions. Indeed, it is your duty as their sponsor to ensure that they thumb-tip as a dye-tube.
do. The Magic Circle reserves the right to refuse entry. See our website 6 Fielding will share his psychology on the vanishing bottle and how
for all the latest event details and to subscribe to a weekly email to improve its use in the comedy act.
reminder of upcoming events. 7 Last but not least how to produce an inflated balloon from a bag.

September Monday 1 Looking Ahead to October

GUY BAVLI CREATIVITY AND PRACTICALITY FROM MAGIC TO MIND.
The lecture will be mostly about ideas and effects from my many years October Monday 6
of performances. There will be lots of effects and the small things that AGM
they don’t see but make a big difference in your performance.
From mind reading, metal bending, a touch of cards to some classic October Monday 13
effects with twists that make them completely fresh. There will also be HENRY EVANS
a discussion on how to create, think out of the box, presentation dos
and don’ts, and many more goodies. Change of address? Please login to your account at
www.themagiccircle.co.uk. Under “Quick links”, click on
September Monday 8 “Profile”. At the top, under “Edit” you should be able
MARC SPELMANN to select “update your profile”. You can contact
Another Evening With Marc Spelmann covering mentalism and magic webmaster@themagiccircle.co.uk if you encounter
effects and theory. Belief and being believable for modern audiences. any problems.
Member in need? Contact Welfare Officer David Hatch,
September Monday 15 WelfareOfficer@TheMagicCircle.co.uk
THE HOFFMANN MEMORIAL LECTURE: BRIAN LEAD
Harry Potter may have complained that “the most boring lesson was
the history of magic, taught by a ghost,” but OFSTED inspectors said of
former teacher Brian Lead: “Outstanding. Students learn because lessons
are fun, yet they are underpinned with sound academic rigour.” Brian,
the most recent recipient of the Hoffmann Award, will be bringing this
blend of entertainment and illumination to The Magic Circle Stage when
he explores the role which magic has played in society through the ages.

September Monday 22
GOODBYE MR PRESIDENT!
Presented by Monday Night Host, Roy Marsh, this promises to be an
evening of fun, magic and surprises, to mark Jack Delvin’s retirement
as President of The Magic Circle. The evening will feature members of
Jack’s School of Magic, Apprentices and many Members who wish to
celebrate his lifetime of magic. Jack was instrumental in getting

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