Hi folks
I thought I'd let you know about a few lectures that I will be presenting in the coming few months.
The first will be at Paisley Magic Circle on Thursday 19th January 2012 at their regular meeting place - St Ninian's Church Hall, 81-83 Blackstoun Road, Paisley, PA3 1NR (map). The lecture is due to start at 7:30pm and non-member magicians can get full details from the Hon. Secretary, Peter Mullan, by e-mailing pgmullan@hotmail.com. I am calling this particular lecture "A Work In Progress" as it will be a brand new lecture mostly containing material from my new lecture notes, which I will be releasing that night. I'll give you more details on the new notes soon.
In March, I am presenting a couple of lectures in England. First, on Monday 5th March, I will be at Leicester Magic Circle at their regular meeting place - Braunstone Civic Centre, Kingsway, Leicester, LE3 2PP (map). This lecture is scheduled to start at 7:30pm and you can get more details from the club directly by e-mailing info@leicestermagiccircle.co.uk.
Then, on Tuesday 6th March, I will be visiting the Mid Essex Magical Society who meet at The Cricketers Public House, Penny Royal Road, Danbury, CM3 4ED (map). The lecture is due to start at 8pm and you can get full details by e-mailing Michael Alderman on mike@michaeljalderman.myzen.co.uk.
If you are the Secretary of a Magical Society looking for a lecturer for the end of the week that I am south of the border (the week of Monday 5th to Friday 9th March) then please get in touch at peter@thecardman.co.uk. You can get full details of my lecture on "The Lecture" page.
If you are able to make it along, please come up and say hi. I am looking forward to visiting the different clubs. Maybe I'll see you somewhere along the road?
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
16 August 2011
2011 Edinburgh Fringe
Hi folks
Last weekend, I had a couple of days at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe where I managed to catch 6 shows - 3 each day. I thought you might be interested in my thoughts on them. I am going to try not to quote gags or tell you which tricks are performed during these "reviews". I have also given a "star" rating which is out of 5.
If you've seen the "Police Academy" movies, you've seen Michael Winslow. If you've seen "Spaceballs", you've seen Michael Winslow. If you've seen "Gremlins" and some episodes of "Family Guy", you've heard Michael Winslow. This is the guy that can make all sorts of vocal noises, from a machine gun to, with the help of some reverb in his microphone, Jimi Hendrix's guitar. He provided us with those and a whole lot more in his hour on stage. I'll be honest, I was wondering what he would do to fill an hour but from the moment he walked on stage, those thoughts were out of my head as he owned The Underbelly stage from the moment he walked on stage until he walked off after his wonderful Louis Armstrong finale. Normal, mundane, everyday tasks took on a whole new life with Winslow acting them out on stage while providing his own self-produced sound effects. If you can get a ticket, get one. It is a great hour.
Rating - *****
It looks like Ali has been busy in the last year learning a host of new magic for this year's show with everything from intricate sleight of hand with coins to some big stage illusions being displayed. He also displays his ever-growing skill as a stand up comic with some funny, and sometimes dark, pieces. As a magician, it was the magic that I was there to see and he made excellent use of a large screen at the back of the stage, not only to allow the whole audience to enjoy some of the smaller pieces that he performed but to illustrate things that he was talking about in the build up to a routine. He also fooled me with a number of his magical in the show - I am almost embarrassed to admit that his card routine caught me completely - and it all made for a very enjoyable hour. If you like magic, you'll like Ali.
Rating - ****
For me, listening to comedy in a darkened room is not a new thing. My best mate introduced me to the concept many years ago when he was introducing me to the work of a certain Bill Hicks. What was new to me was listening to comedy being performed live, right in front of me, in an auditorium in the company of over 100 other people. It makes for an interesting experience. Of the 3 performers that were on the night I went, Mark Olver and Patrick Monahan were both enjoyable but it was Terry Alderton who made full use of the darkness by performing a number of excellent impressions of other comedians and then sneaking Tim Vine and Milton Jones onto and off of the stage during his set. An enjoyable late night show.
Rating - ***
I went to this show for 2 reasons. First, on the memory of seeing James Kirk performing the night after he won last year's So You Think You're Funny competition. Second, because it was part of PBH's Free Fringe. The show was compered by Gus Lymburn who did an excellent job of getting the crowd warmed up before introducing the first performer, Matt Winning, who performed an OK set. There were a few bits that missed the mark, but it wasn't too bad. James Kirk was introduced next and was excellent with a good amount of new material complimenting the one piece that he performed that I could remember from his set last year. The last act was Richard Gadd who, I have to admit, I did not find terribly funny. His style of comedy had me, and a number of others in the audience, sitting in silence. There were a few good gags in his set but I found his material too weird too much of the time. The trio returned afterwards with a very funny musical piece which had everyone leaving with a smile on their face and a catchy song in their heads.
Rating - ***
Young And Strange recently appeared on ITV's Penn & Teller: Fool Us performing a fairly large scale illusion. This show sees them performing a number of smaller pieces in a nightclub that is being used as a venue on the PBH Free Fringe. The performance I saw was their first of the Fringe and, as is usual at such events, there were some teething problems (had I seen a later performance I may have awarded an extra star but I can only go on what I saw). However, most of these were not apparent until Rich and Sam told me afterwards. I think that alone tells you how hard they have worked to put this show together. It is an enjoyable hour with some excellent magic in it - as was apparent by the reactions from the full house that had turned up to see the show. I think you will enjoy it too.
Edit - Rich and Sam have added extra shows for next week. You can catch their illusion show from 21st to 26th August at Princes Mall (space L8) at 14:15. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
Rating - ***
I have been to see Jarlath over the last few years at the Fringe and have found his laid back, friendly style to be a bit of a welcome break from the in-your-face style of comedy that seems to be so prevalent these days. Sure, there are a number of f-bombs and a c-bomb in the show but he does them with such style that you don't really mind. Your mum might, but you don't. This year's show concentrates upon his time in Irish children's television. Not only what he was doing and stories about what went on, but the reasons why he was doing it. He also has a wonderful piece about watching the Eurovision Song Contest which I will not spoil. This is, by far, Regan's most personal show but do not allow that to put you off. Personal? Yes. Moving? Very! Funny? Extremely! Do yourself a favour - go get a ticket and enjoy a brilliant stand up comedian in this intimate setting before he starts having to perform in huge arenas which, if there was any justice in this world, he will be in the not too distant future!
Rating - *****
So there you go. Six shows in a couple of days. The only down side to my visit through to Edinburgh was the weather. It rained constantly from Saturday afternoon until I left on Sunday afternoon. Still, I enjoyed what I saw. If you get a chance, I hope you find shows that you enjoy.
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
03 August 2011
The 40th International Magic Convention and The London Festival of Magic
Hi folks
The gang at International Magic have been really busy over the last few weeks, not only putting the 40th edition of the International Magic Convention (18th to 20th November) but also organising the first London Festival of Magic which will take place the week leading up to the Convention itself.
The Festival will feature Workshops and Seminars during the day and performances at night, all taking place at the Bridewell Theatre, Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London. The daytime events are 10:30am for an 11am start and the evening events are 7pm for a 7:30pm start. Here is the schedule of what has been organised:-
Monday 14th November
Daytime: Marketing For Magicians with Bob Yelland
Evening: Monday Night Magic - a varied bill of top class magical and comedy performers.
Tuesday 15th November
Daytime: Advanced Card Techniques with Guy Hollingworth, Jason England, Ben Earl and Paul Wilson
Evening: Hustle! - Double bill of performances. Combined show of Guy Hollingworth, Jason England and Paul Wilson followed by Pete Wardell's One Man Show
Wednesday 16th November
Daytime: Mentalism with Andy Nyman, Paul Stockman, Mark Elsdon and Luke Jermay
Evening: Mentalism with Quentin Reynolds and Todd Landman
Thursday 17th November
Daytime: Making Magic Meaningful with Eugene Burger and Larry Hass
Evening: An Audience With David Berglas - A chance to spend an evening with the International Man of Mystery in an intimate setting as he answers questions and looks back at his incredible career.
Friday 18th November
Daytime: Creativity with Tom Stone, Mark Setteducati, Angelo Carbone
Saturday 19th November
Evening: Max Maven Thinking in Person: An Evening of Knowing and Not Knowing
The schedule for the Convention itself has also been announced. As it has the last couple of years, the convention is taking place at the Mermaid Theatre, Puddle Dock, London - in my opinion, a brilliant venue. Here is what has been organised:-
Friday 18th November
Evening (doors open 6:30pm for 7pm start):
Harry Anderson Show
Saturday 19th November
Daytime (doors open 9:30am, first event 10am):
Dealers - open all day
28th International Close Up Competition and Kevin Reay Trophy
Eugene Burger Lecture
David Williamson Event
Jason England Lecture
Dealers - open all day
28th International Close Up Competition and Kevin Reay Trophy
Eugene Burger Lecture
David Williamson Event
Jason England Lecture
Evening (doors open 6pm for 7:30pm start):
International Magic and Variety Show (first performance)
Saturday 19th November
Daytime (doors open 10am, first event 10:30am):
Dealers - open all day
Larry Hass Lecture
Close Up Gala with Eugene Burger Lecture, Larry Hass, David Williamson, Tom Stone, Jason England
Max Maven Lecture
Tom Stone Lecture
David Berglas Award to ????
Evening (doors open 6pm for 7:30pm start):
International Magic and Variety Show (second performance)
So there you have it folks. Now we know what's happening when and I, for one, cannot wait. Just remember, it's only 3½ months away!
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
22 July 2011
Opus Magazine
"A state of mind, an independent voice". That's how Opus Magazine introduced itself on every... however often it appeared. Now, the Opus Editorial Team™ of Chris Power and JJ have decided to revamp their website, add an online shop where you can buy the PDF downloads of the first couple of volumes (with, we are promised, more to follow in due course) and even start a forum for like-minded magicians to discuss whatever they want to discuss.
The magazine was an attempt to create the sort that Chris and JJ, along with original editor Ian Keeble and advisor David Britland, would want to read themselves. Interviews, reports, reviews, gossip and even a trick or 2 per issue. As it turned out, a lot of people wanted to read this sort of magazine too. The reports and reviews were never anything short of honest and if they didn't like something, they would tell you - and tell you why! Opus were not afraid to voice their opinion and ruffle more than a few feathers of the magical establishment, if they felt those feathers needed ruffled.
Even though Chris and JJ haven't been away anywhere - they've been busy with something called "life" - it's great to see them, and Opus, back with an online presence. You should go visit them at www.opusmagazine.co.uk. I think you'll enjoy your time with them.
Speak soon
The Cardman :-)
14 July 2011
Surprise, Surprise!
Hi folks
This time, instead of me typing the words, here's a wee message from the MacMillan Family themselves about this year's International Magic Convention.
“For the last few years the ultimate event of the Sunday daytime of The International Magic Convention (18th to 20th November) has been the presentation of the David Berglas International Magic Award. Always a closely guarded secret the recipients over the last few years include Uri Geller, David Copperfield and Juan Tamariz, all of whom have been happy to answer questions from the assembled audience at The Mermaid Theatre in London following the presentation. The surprise element of who the recipient is going to be has always created an incredible buzz in the theatre leading up to the proceedings and some of our most cherished memories of the Convention. Once again David Berglas has another amazing event planned for this year, and once again we’d like you to join him and us not only for that but also many other fantastic lectures and shows to celebrate our 40th Anniversary”.
Signed - The MacMillan Family
From a personal standpoint, I think Sunday at 5pm at the International Magic Convention is not only a highlight of the convention, but a highlight of the year as a whole. From Uri Geller being willing to face any question (whether he answered them is another matter!) to David Copperfield spending an hour with us via Skype from his base in Las Vegas to David Berglas and Juan Tamariz conspiring to fool every person in the theatre by making us think that the Skype link had failed and then the Maestro walking on stage moments later, I cannot wait for Mr Berglas to make this year's presentation.
Speak soon
The Cardman :-)
04 July 2011
A scoop at the International Magic Convention
Hi folks
International Magic are proud to announce that Harry Anderson will be making his first ever European Magic Convention appearance at this year's International Magic Convention. With multiple appearances on USA’s Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, as well as being a regular guest artist in Cheers, a star of his 2 very own highly successful sitcoms spanning 12 years and as one of the USA’s most revered comedy magicians, it seems inconceivable that he has never before appeared at a European Magic Convention, but that will all change later this year when Harry Anderson not only performs his one man show, but then reveals and dissects everything in it in a follow up lecture at The International Magic Convention in London (November 18-20). If you need any more convincing that this will be a truly unmissable event, check out any review of Mike Caveney’s number one best seller “Wise Guy”.
Harry will open the Convention on the Friday Night and is just one of very many special events planned, not only during the Convention but also in London’s Festival of Magic in the week leading up to it. If you’re a magic fan there will be no better time to visit London – watch magicweek over the next month to read of just some of the spectacular seminar and one-off events that we’ve planned to celebrate this, the 40th year of London’s only annual Convention.
I'll be posting more details in the coming weeks leading up to the convention, so stay tuned!
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
24 June 2011
Williamson Alert!
Hi folks
Well, more information has been handed to me from the gang at International Magic about this year's convention. They are very happy to announce that David Williamson, magic’s greatest comedic force of nature, will be one of the many artists appearing at their 40th Anniversary Convention, taking place in London from November 18th to 20th.
David will be performing in both the Close Up and Stage Gala Shows, and also no doubt popping up in the most of unexpected of places. It marks one of a repeat number of appearances at the Convention (known affectionately as “Ron’s” after Ron MacMillan who started the Convention back in 1970) since 1984 when David made his debut UK convention appearance at this very gathering. Once again this year we plan to introduce similar artistes who, although may be unknown to you now, are in our minds destined to become the next big names in magic.
Registration details can be found in the Convention pages of the International Magic website.
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
20 June 2011
"Max Maven Thinking In Person" in London
Hi folks
First of all, my apologies for not posting over the weekend. Family stuff and whatnot. Also, the gang at International Magic have asked me to hold off on mentioning the name that I hinted at in my last blog post. I am respecting that request and hope that you do too. Thanks.
Max Maven will be lecturing all new material to the UK, at the International Magic Convention being held later this year (18-20 November) at The Mermaid Theatre. This will herald Max’s first appearance in London for 10 years, and we are thrilled to announce that in addition to his lecture at the Convention, he will also be presenting his full evening one man show “Max Maven Thinking in Person: An Evening of Knowing and Not Knowing” at the Bridewell Theatre on the Saturday evening. This show, that the New York Times observed as “a category defying mind-reading show that veers into conceptual art”, has never been performed before in the UK, and proves why Entertainment Tonight crowned him at “the master mind reader” in this show which has been described as “a rare and precious piece of magical theatre”. Max’s show will be one of the extra events being organized throughout the week, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of London’s only annual magic Convention.
Tickets for this two hour show are available individually at £25, but may also be taken instead of a Convention Gala Show ticket if you are booking a registration for the convention.
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
13 June 2011
2011 International Magic Convention
Hi folks
Five months from now sees one of my favourite times of the year - the International Magic Convention in London (aka Ron's Day or, simply, Ron's). It was established by Ron MacMillan, who started the International Magic shop in London (hence the convention nicknames). Not only is 2011 the 50th anniversary of the shop itself (you can read a great article about the shop on the Spitalfields Life website), it is also their 40th annual Convention and so they are pulling out all the stops, putting them back in and pulling them all back out again to make this year's really special.
The celebrations start on Monday 14th November with the very first London Festival of Magic and while full information has still to be announced, 4 days of workshops and evening performances are promised featuring a Bizarre Night, a Mentalism Night, a Burlesque Night and a Comedy Night.
Friday 18th November to Sunday 20th November sees the 40th International Magic Convention itself taking place at The Mermaid Theatre located on the banks of the River Thames. Please remember that this year's convention is a week earlier than it usually is! The star line up, organised by Noel Britten, looks fantastic and includes...
- Eugene Burger
- Max Maven
- David Williamson
- Jerome Helfenstein
- An Ha Lim
- Larry Hass
- Simmons & Simmons
- and more to be announced!
Another big name is being announced on Saturday and I will post who that is this weekend. Don't ask me to tell you before hand because I can't. No, seriously I can't tell you! Please, stop asking! You'll find out this weekend, OK?! OK.
And don't forget the 28th International Close Up Magic Competition, now regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions in magic with a list of winners that reads like a who's who in close up. If you wish to add your name to the list, get in touch with the gang at International as soon as you can and they will give you details on how to enter.
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
12 June 2011
Magic at the 2011 Edinburgh Fringe
Hi folks
Blimey! Have I not posted since January??? Erm, sorry (hangs head in shame). Things have been a bit busy and I'll post a wee blog about the America trip in the coming few days. I've also got some information about my favourite UK magic Convention which I am not yet allowed to divulge but will do as soon as I am allowed to.
No, don't ask. I'm not allowed! Pain of death and all that.
Anyway, onto this particular blog. As regular readers (greetings) will no doubt remember, I am a great fan of the Edinburgh Fringe. I try to get through at least once in August to see as much as I can. As a magician, I like to find out who is all performing and this year is a bumper one! There are, at current count, 41 magic and magic-related shows on as part of this year's Fringe. Here's this year's list.
CABARET
Bespoke Magic – On the Fringe of Reality
Bruce Glen – The Gentleman Magician
Bruce Glen, the Gentleman Magician, presents a unique combination of storytelling and extraordinary magic – amid the mysterious surrounds of the atmospheric Roman Eagle Lodge.
C aquila • Roman Eagle Lodge , EH1 2PW
Box Office 0845 260 1234
Aug 4-5,15,22-23: 18:10 (1h) £7.50 (£6.50)
Aug 6-9,12-14,19-21,26-29: 18:10 (1h) £9.50 (£8.50)
Aug 10-11,17-18,24-25: 18:10 (1h) £8.50 (£7.50)
Chris Cross is Escaping from Reality
Chris Cross Entertainments/PBH's Free Fringe
Chris Cross is a contortionist and escapologist who travels worldwide with his one-man, critically acclaimed show. He is cheeky, funny, energetic and positively different to anything else you will see at the Fringe. www.chris-cross.co.uk
The Voodoo Rooms • West Register Street, EH2 2AA
Box Office 0131 226 0000
Aug 6-27: 21:35 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
Comedium
Peter Antoniou
Award-winning comedy mind reader Peter Antoniou guides you through his world of psychic weirdness. A blend of documentary and jaw-dropping mind reading demonstrations wrapped up with trademark humour, this will leave you asking, is your mind safe? ‘Brilliant’ (BBC).
Sweet Grassmarket • Apex City Hotel, 61 Grassmarket, EH1 2JF
Box Office 0131 243 3596
Aug 4-5: 14:05 (55m) £5.00
Aug 6-15,17-21: 14:05 (55m) £7.00 (£5.50)
Aug 22-28: 13:30 (55m) £7.00 (£5.00)
Doug Segal: I Know What You're Thinking – Free
Doug Segal/Laughing Horse Free Festival
BBC mind reader teaches audiences to detect lies, read minds and implant suggestions, with laughs and rakish charm. Hard science abused for tawdry entertainment. ‘Imagine a funny Derren Brown’ (Evening Standard). www.iknowwhatyouarethinking.co.uk
Laughing Horse @ The Three Sisters • 139 Cowgate, EH1 1JS
Box Office 0131 622 6801
Aug 4-13: 20:45 (1h) (Free Ticketed)
Fate and Two Sugars
Jack Barton
Having spent years acquiring a bizarre collection of skills, Jack is live in Edinburgh to demonstrate them. Be dazzled, confused or amused as he fashions psychological mysteries that must either be scientific breakthroughs or elaborate trickery.
Hill Street Theatre • 19 Hill Street, EH2 3JP
Box Office 0131 226 6522
Aug 22-23,25-29: 22:45 (1h15m) £10.00 (£8.00)
The Grumpy Magicians
Paul Temple and John Hearn/PBH’s Free Fringe
Ryan's Bar • 2-4 Hope Street, EH2 4DB
Aug 6-28: 19:40 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
James Galea – I Hate Rabbits
James Galea Entertainment
Critically acclaimed high energy magic concert from Australia's No. 1 magician. Galea’s unique, cutting-edge style seamlessly fuses his wicked humour with award-winning magic. 'James Galea has reinvented the art of trickery' (Daily Telegraph).
The Playhouse at Hawke and Hunter Green Room • 12 Picardy Place, EH1 3JT
Box Office 0844 871 3014
Aug 5-7,11-14,18-21,25-28: 19:30 (1h) £12.50 (£11.50)
Aug 8-10,15-17,22-24,29: 19:30 (1h) £11.50 (£10.50)
Oliver Meech: Live Brain Surgery – Free
Oliver Meech/Laughing Horse Free Festival
Journey inside some extraordinary minds with magic boffin Oliver Meech. Experience gruesome surgery, bizarre neurological phenomena and freaky tricks in this mind-expanding, mind-blowing magic show. 2010 show: 'fascinated' (Fest), **** (LoveFringe). www.magicmeech.com
Laughing Horse @ The Three Sisters • 139 Cowgate, EH1 1JS
Box Office 0131 622 6801
Aug 4: 18:30 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
Aug 5-15,17-28: 18:30 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
SwissOH!vation
Freddie Rutz
The multi-talented Swiss entertainer Freddie Rutz fascinates any audience with his charm and makes people laugh and think! The former professional dancer and magician in his solo variety show that toured in Asia and all over Europe! www.freddierutz.com
Spotlites @ The Merchants' Hall • 22 Hanover Street, EH2 2EP
Box Office 0131 220 5911
Aug 5-13: 21:05 (50m) £9.00 (£8.00)
Wet Paint: A Magic Show – Free
Ben Hart and Neil Kelso/PBH’s Free Fringe
Ben Hart and Neil Kelso, the award-winning brains behind illusions and special effects seen on stage, television and movies, unveil new and astounding magical illusions from the darkest corners of their unusual imaginations.
The Voodoo Rooms • West Register Street, EH2 2AA
Box Office 0131 226 0000
Aug 5-29: 12:30 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
CHILDREN’S
The Amazing Bubble Show
The Amazing Bubble Man (USA)
Breathtaking bubbles, people inside bubbles, square bubbles, amazing bubble colours, sculptural bubbles, special effect bubbles. A show for kids of all ages to thrill, laugh, love and learn about the world of Bubble-ology. Book early.
C too • St Columba's by the Castle, EH1 2PW
Box Office 0845 260 1234
Aug 4-5,16,22-23: 12:05 (45m) £7.50 (£6.50) (£5.50 C)
Aug 6-9,13-14,20-21,27-29: 12:05 (45m) £9.50 (£8.50) (£7.50 C)
Aug 10-12,17-19,24-26: 12:05 (45m) £8.50 (£7.50) (£6.50 C)
Aug 4-5,16,22-23: 13:05 (45m) £7.50 (£6.50) (£5.50 C)
Aug 6-9,13-14,20-21,27-29: 13:05 (45m) £9.50 (£8.50) (£7.50 C)
Aug 10-12,17-19,24-26: 13:05 (45m) £8.50 (£7.50) (£6.50 C)
The I Hate Children Children's Show!
Bad Magician
Sick of kids shows making you want to vom in your sippy cup but need to keep little monsters entertained? This is for you. Stunning magic, irreverent humour, fun for all. 'Wonderfulness' ***** (ThreeWeeks).
Zoo Southside • 117 Nicolson Street, EH8 9ER
Box Office 0131 662 6892
Aug 6-29: 12:30 (45m) £7.50
Kreestan Sennakie's Magical Story Emporium
Quids In Theatre Company
Welcome to our Story Emporium! Kreestan brings wonderful tales to life through a mixture of magical storytelling, illusion and audience participation. Family fun is always guaranteed when the doors open to the Magical Emporium!
theSpaces on North Bridge • Carlton Hotel, North Bridge, EH1 2HE
Box Office 0845 557 6308
Aug 5-6: 11:10 (45m) £4.00 (£2.50)
Aug 8-13: 11:10 (45m) £5.00 (£3.00)
Toybox
Billy Kirkwood, Sian Bevan, Steven Dick/Stand Comedy Club
Comedians Billy Kirkwood, Sian Bevan and Steven Dick take you on a hilarious bouncy castle of laughter in this awesome new interactive kids comedy show, featuring stand-up, games, magic and much more – come and play in the Toybox!
The Stand Comedy Club • 5 York Place, EH1 3EB
Box Office 0131 558 7272
Aug 5-16,19-21,26-28: 12:45 (1h) £6.00
COMEDY
Ali Cook – Principles and Deceptions
Bound and Gagged Comedy by arrangement with International Artistes
Star of ITV's Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Dirty Tricks (Channel 4) and Monkey Magic (Five), Ali Cook returns with more awe-inspiring magic. 'Stunning tricks. Truly awesome' (Chortle.co.uk), 'Immensely funny' (Telegraph). www.alicook.com
Gilded Balloon Teviot • Teviot Row House, EH8 9AJ
Box Office 0131 622 6552
Aug 3-5: 21:30 (1h) £6.00
Aug 6-7,12-14,19-21,26-28: 21:30 (1h) £13.00 (£12.00)
Aug 8-9,11,15-16,18,22-25,29: 21:30 (1h) £12.00 (£11.00)
Barry and Stuart – Show and Tell: The Show
Corrie McGuire for Objective Talent
Join ‘genuinely remarkable’ (Sunday Telegraph) Scottish Bafta nominated magicians Barry and Stuart (stars of The Magicians, BBC1) for a mindblowing hour of ‘pure magic’ (List). ‘Watch and marvel’ (Scotland on Sunday).
Udderbelly's Pasture • Bristo Square, EH8 9AL
Box Office 0844 545 8252
Aug 3-5: 22:15 (1h) £7.00
Aug 6-9,12-14,19-21,26-28: 22:15 (1h) £14.00 (£13.00)
Aug 10-11,15-18,22-25: 22:15 (1h) £12.00 (£11.00)
Barry and Stuart – Show and Tell: The Tell
Corrie McGuire for Objective Talent
How’s it done? Here’s your chance to find out! In the Fringe’s most intimate venue, Barry and Stuart will reveal the secrets behind the magic from The Show. Limited tickets available.
Udderbelly's Pasture • Bristo Square, EH8 9AL
Box Office 0844 545 8252
Aug 3-5: 00:00 (1h) £6.00
Aug 6-9,12-14,19-21,26-28: 00:00 (1h) £12.00 (£11.00)
Aug 10-11,15-18,22-25: 00:00 (1h) £10.00 (£9.00)
The Boy With Tape On His Face
Lee Martin for Gag Reflex Management
The Boy returns with his award-winning show. It’s still good. ‘Utterly spectacular!’ ***** (Time Out), ‘A truly magical experience’ ***** (Chortle.co.uk). As seen on ITV1’s Comedy Rocks with Jason Manford. 100% sell-out 2010.
Pleasance Courtyard • 60 Pleasance, EH8 9TJ
Box Office 0131 556 6550
Aug 15-18,22-25: 21:10 (1h) £10.50 (£9.50)
Aug 19-21,26-28: 21:10 (1h) £12.50 (£11.50)
Chris Cox: Fatal Distraction
Phil McIntyre Entertainments
Fifth show from multi award winning mind reader who can’t read minds. He’s been on TV, toured the world and is somehow still getting away with it. 'One of the most exciting entertainers in Britain' (Guardian). www.magiccox.com
Pleasance Dome • Potterow, 1 Bristo Square, EH8 9AL
Box Office 0131 556 6550
Aug 3-5: 19:10 (1h) £6.00
Aug 6-7,12-14,19-21,26-28: 19:10 (1h) £14.00 (£12.50)
Aug 8-11,15,17-18,22-25,29: 19:10 (1h) £12.00 (£10.50)
Devious Minds
Maudsley and Shoesmith
Deviously funny and fiendishly clever mindtricks from professional members of the Magic Circle! Shoesmith amuses with wit and sleightof- hand, Maudsley tells you it’s a con from the start but by the end you’ll believe he reads minds! www.deviousminds.co.uk
Spotlites @ The Merchants' Hall • 22 Hanover Street, EH2 2EP
Box Office 0131 220 5911
Aug 14-22: 19:10 (1h10m) £9.00 (£8.00)
Disco in a Dungeon
Just the Tonic
Edinburgh's biggest club night! Voted one of the top 100 venues in the world! Lying in the cavernous depths of the hollow arches under South Bridge. Big name DJ's, fire-eaters, magicians, 70s to 90s and now!
Just The Tonic at the Caves • Enter from The Rowantree Bar (under South Bridge), 253 Cowgate, EH1 1LG
Box Office 0131 556 5375
Aug 5-6: 00:00 (3h) £5.00
Aug 7,11-14,18-21,25-28: 00:00 (4h30m) £8.00
Hypnotist, Titan Knight
Titan Knight.com
Witness phenomenal feats of pure mind magic as Canada’s premier hypnotist invites you on an insane unpredictable journey through the subconscious. Astonished audience members are left asking what’s real and what’s not? See it for yourself! www.titanknight.com
City Edinburgh • 1a Market Street, EH1 1DE
Box Office 0131 226 0000
Aug 7: 23:00 (1h30m) £6.00
Aug 8-9,14-18,21: 23:00 (1h30m) £13.00
Aug 22-25,28: 23:30 (1h30m) £13.00
Ian D Montfort – Spirit Comedium
Cheerful Earful Productions
Tom Binns returns with an incredible new show for Ian D Montfort, a spookily skilful, wonderfully observed and hysterically funny spirit medium who contacts the dead with faintly inexplicable clairvoyant revelations, leaving the audience gasping.
Pleasance Courtyard • 60 Pleasance, EH8 9TJ
Box Office 0131 556 6550
Aug 3-5: 18:15 (1h) £10.00 (£8.00)
Aug 6-7,12-14,19-21,26-28: 18:15 (1h) £14.00 (£12.00)
Aug 8-11,15-18,22-25: 18:15 (1h) £12.00 (£10.00)
Kevin Cruise
Assembly
Teatime cruise ship capers with legendary high seas host. Comedy, magic, game shows, sing-a-long classics and bingo. Pack your bags and party on down. ‘Sheer entertainment – I love Kevin Cruise’ (Amanda Holden), ‘Absolutely no comment’ (Simon Cowell).
Assembly George Square • George Square, EH8 9LH
Box Office 0131 623 3030
Aug 3-5: 15:50 (50m) £5.00
Aug 6-7,12-14,19-21,26-28: 15:50 (50m) £12.00 (£10.00)
Aug 8-11,16-18,22-25,29: 15:50 (50m) £10.00 (£8.00)
Mind Reading for Breakfast
'Psychic' Psychologist – Rob Bailey
Reiki, homeopathy and ESP: mumbo-jumbo or truth? Decide over free coffee and croissants as Fringe veteran Psychic Psychologist recreates parascientific illusions during this funny, informative show. 'Ditches paranormal waffle without compromising mystique' **** (Big Issue). www.psychicpsychologist.co.uk
Sweet Grassmarket • Apex City Hotel, 61 Grassmarket, EH1 2JF
Box Office 0131 243 3596
Aug 4-5: 11:30 (1h) £5.00
Aug 6-29: 11:30 (1h) £9.00 (£8.00)
Mogic
Hiatus Theatre in association with The Scat Pack
A mail order magic kit. A magician and his glamourous assistants with only an instructional cassette to follow. Hilarious farce meets breathtaking magic. 'Astonishing performance' **** (Chortle.co.uk). 'Hysterical. The audience is literally speechless with laughter' (Hairline.org.uk). www.hiatustheatre.co.uk
C soco • Chambers Street and Cowgate, EH1 1HR
Box Office 0845 260 1234
Aug 3-5,15,22-23: 17:10 (55m) £7.50 (£6.50) (£4.50 C)
Aug 6-9,12-14,19-21,26-29: 17:10 (55m) £9.50 (£8.50) (£6.50 C)
Aug 10-11,17-18,24-25: 17:10 (55m) £8.50 (£7.50) (£5.50 C)
Morgan & West: Crime Solving Magicians
Morgan & West
Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West return with an all new show and their toughest challenge – solving their own murder. Featuring magic, mystery and mild peril aplenty. Sell-out show 2009, 2010. **** (Scotsman).
Gilded Balloon Teviot • Teviot Row House, EH8 9AJ
Box Office 0131 622 6552
Aug 3-5: 15:30 (1h) £6.00
Aug 6-11,15-16,18, 22-25,29: 15:30 (1h) £9.50 (£8.50)
Aug 12-14,19-21,26-28: 15:30 (1h) £10.50 (£9.50)
Nathan Penlington: Uri and Me
Show + Tell
Fusing psychic magic and an obsessive deconstruction of the spoon-bending icon/oddball that we all know and love. Featuring telepathy, clairvoyance, oil dowsing and a death-defying motorbike stunt. ‘An absolute sensation’ (Guardian). **** (ThreeWeeks). www.showandtelluk.com
Udderbelly's Pasture • Bristo Square, EH8 9AL
Box Office 0844 545 8252
Aug 3-5: 16:10 (1h) £6.00
Aug 6-7,10-11,16-18,22-25,29: 16:10 (1h) £9.50 (£8.50)
Aug 8-9,12-14,19-21,26-28: 16:10 (1h) £10.50 (£9.50)
Obsession – A Life With Magic
Ian Kendall
What happens when you show an Asperger's kid something cool? Fringe veteran Ian Kendall explains his lifelong obsession with sleight of hand. ‘Impressive magician's skill’ **** (Scotsman). ‘Slick, stylish sleight of hand’ ****(BroadwayBaby.com). www.iankendall.com
Zoo • 140 The Pleasance, EH8 9RR
Box Office 0131 662 6892
Aug 13,20: 22:30 (1h) £10.00
Paul Daniels: Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
Norwell Lapley Productions Ltd
The most successful magician of the 20th century and international sex symbol comes to town with the lovely Debbie McGee with a show full of comedy, magic and amazement. He promises not to dance.
Assembly George Square • George Square, EH8 9LH
Box Office 0131 623 3030
Aug 3-5: 17:00 (1h) £8.00
Aug 6-9,12-14,19-21,25-28: 17:00 (1h) £15.00 (£14.00)
Aug 10-11,15-18,22-24: 17:00 (1h) £14.00 (£13.00)
Pete Firman: Jiggery Pokery
Phil McIntyre Entertainments by arrangement with Objective Talent Management
After sell out shows in 2007/08/09/10, the UK’s top comedic conjuror returns with 'The best magic tricks in the Universe' (Independent). 'Funnier than most comedians and more magical than Dumbledore on a good day' (Time Out).
Pleasance Dome • Potterow, 1 Bristo Square, EH8 9AL
Box Office 0131 556 6550
Aug 3-5: 20:30 (1h) £6.00
Aug 6-7,12-14,19-21,26-28: 20:30 (1h) £14.00 (£12.50)
Aug 8-11,15-18,22-25: 20:30 (1h) £12.00 (£10.50)
Piff the Magic Dragon: Last of the Magic Dragons
John van der Put/Cat's Cradle Comedy
They're back! To save the species! 'Top Three Picks of the Fringe' (The One Show). 'Unbelievable' (BBC1). 'Cute, inspired and very funny' (Time Out). 'Gloriously grumpy!' (Chortle.co.uk). 'Genuinely side-splittingly funny' (ArtsHub.co.uk).
Just the Tonic at The Store (formerly GRV) • 37 Guthrie Street, EH1 1JG
Box Office 0131 556 5375
Aug 4-5: 18:40 (1h) £5.00
Aug 6,11-13,18-20,25-27: 18:40 (1h) £10.00 (£9.00)
Aug 7-10,14-15,17,21-24,28: 18:40 (1h) £9.00 (£8.00)
Rockstar of the Mind
Hank Stone Productions/Laughing Horse Free Festival
Four world tours at 27, must be doing something right. Featuring a tribute to Kenny Craig, Derren Brown and that other guy. And remember, don't look into his eyes, his eyes or around his eyes!
Laughing Horse @ The Beehive Inn • 18 Grassmarket, EH1 2JU
Box Office 0131 225 7171
Aug 14-15: 23:55 (55m) (Free Non-ticketed)
Roughhausers Comedy Sideshow
Roughhausers
Witness cheeky burlesque, bizarre magic, hilarious comedy and improvisation in this surreal, old-timey variety act inspired by historical sideshows. www.roughhausers.com
Leith on the Fringe @ Out of the Blue Drill Hall • 30-36 Dalmeny Street, EH6 8RG
Box Office 0131 226 0000
Aug 26-27: 20:00 (1h) £10.00 (£9.00)
The Ultimate Quiz Show featuring Silly Milly
Shetland Fiddlers
Ever wondered what'd happen if Bargain Hunt got jiggy with Just a Minute? Wonder no more. Join the Shetland Fiddlers with their game show love child! Also, special adults kids party every Friday!
Laughing Horse @ The Beehive Inn • 18 Grassmarket, EH1 2JU
Box Office 0131 225 7171
Aug 4-14,17-28: 21:40 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
Young & Strange
Richard Young and Sam Strange
As seen on ITV's Penn & Teller; Fool Us, Young & Strange make their Edinburgh debut with an hour of magic, comedy and illusion.
Sin Club and Lounge, 207 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JQ
Aug 6-20: 15:00 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
The Southsider, 3 - 7 West Richmond Street, EH8 9EF
Aug 21-26: 20:15 (1h) (Free Non-ticketed)
THEATRE
Babbling Comedy 2
Perfordian Factory (Korea)
Amazing babbling babies from Korea return with a brand new show. Physical theatre, comedy, mime, magic, juggling and beat-box. Truly unique. Fun for the whole family. ***** (BroadwayBaby.com). **** (FringeReview.co.uk). www.perfordian.com
C • Chambers Street, EH1 1HR
Box Office 0845 260 1234
Aug 3-5,15,22-23: 15:15 (55m) £9.50 (£7.50) (£5.50 C)
Aug 6-9,13-14,20-21,27-28: 15:15 (55m) £11.50 (£9.50) (£7.50 C)
Aug 10-12,17-19,24-26: 15:15 (55m) £10.50 (£8.50) (£6.50 C)
Coal Head, Toadstool Mouth and Other Stories
SUDS Theatre Company
Enter a realm of magic, mime and marionettes with this enchanting collection of wry tales. SUDS return with more 'powerful storytelling' and 'engaging eccentricity' (List, 2009) to celebrate the unique jumble of life.
theSpace @ Symposium Hall • RCOS, Hill Square, EH8 9DR
Box Office 0845 508 8515
Aug 8-10: 20:30 (1h30m) £2.00
Aug 11-13,15-20,22-27: 20:30 (1h30m) £7.00 (£5.00)
Devil in the Deck
Unusual Productions
Jack Swindle is a gambler cursed by fate. Cheating at cards and cheating death, Jack searches for a cure to the curse in this innovative amalgam of theatre, magic and music. 'Beautifully executed magic...' (SF Chronicle).
Zoo Roxy • 2 Roxburgh Place, EH8 9SU
Box Office 0131 662 6892
Aug 5-29: 21:05 (1h10m) £10.00
Jus' Like That!
Assembly by Agreement With Mark Goucher Ltd
Bringing Tommy Cooper back to life with all the familiar trademarks: the fez, the laugh and the magic. Clive Mantle (Casualty, Vicar of Dibley), stars as the legendary comedian. ‘Laughed to the bottom of my soul’ (Mirror).
Assembly Hall • Mound Place, EH1 2LU
Box Office 0131 623 3030
Aug 4-5: 17:30 (1h25m) £10.00
Aug 6-9,12-14,19-21,25-28: 17:30 (1h25m) £15.00 (£14.00)
Aug 10-11,15-18,22-24,29: 17:30 (1h25m) £14.00 (£13.00)
Magicians Do Exist
White Room Theatre
Comedy lies in the comedian's ability to reveal the comic dimensions of others. Chris Cresswell's latest show explores the comedy of Jacques Tati and the art of the clown in an interactive theatrical experience.
Pleasance Dome • Potterow, 1 Bristo Square, EH8 9AL
Box Office 0131 556 6550
Aug 3-5: 12:10 (50m) £5.00
Aug 6-15,17-22,24-28: 12:10 (50m) £9.00 (£7.00)
Manipulators
Manipulators
Manipulators is a 50 minute show showcasing world-class magic by two Australian performers. Both performers weave compelling short stories amongst skilful illusions.
theSpaces @ Surgeons Hall • Nicolson Street, EH8 9DW
Box Office 0845 508 8515
Aug 5-6: 20:35 (50m) £5.00
Aug 10-14,17-21,24-27: 20:35 (50m) £12.00 (£10.00)
Phew! Well, there you go. If you've made it through that list, congratulations! I hope you all found a few things to go and see. To book tickets, head on over to www.edfringe.com to do so.
See you in Edinburgh in August!
Speak soon.
The Cardman :-)
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