I.B.M. British Ring 83rd Annual Convention
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I.B.M. British Ring 83rd Annual Convention

The 83rd Annual Convention of I.B.M. British Ring No.25, held in Eastbourne β€” four days of world-class performance, lectures, competitions and An Evening of Magic.

Eastbourne, East Sussex
From the Convention Archive

Welcome to I.B.M. British Ring 83rd Annual Convention

The 83rd Annual Convention of I.B.M. British Ring No.25, held 5th–8th September 2019 in Eastbourne, with events across the Welcome Building and the newly refurbished Devonshire Park Theatre. Featuring international performers, lectures, the British Ring Shield stage competition, the British Ring close-up competition, The Sooty & Friends Show, An Evening of Magic, and the History of Mystery presentations.

Convention Line-up

Meet the Artists

Meet the performers, lecturers, hosts and special guests appearing at this convention.

Richard Cadell & Sooty

The Sooty & Friends Show β€” Sat 10:30am; An Evening of Magic
The Sooty & Friends ShowAn Evening of Magic

Richard has presented The Sooty Show on stage and television for 20 years; also an entertainment entrepreneur, comedy screenwriter and award-winning illusionist.

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Richard has presented The Sooty Show on stage and television for 20 years. He is also an entertainment entrepreneur, comedy screenwriter and award winning illusionist. Over the last 10 years, in addition to TV, Richard has presented The Sooty Show Live at over 500 venues across 8 different nationwide tours. Richard is currently touring 'Sooty's Magic Show' across the UK. This Christmas Richard will be joining an all-star cast in a lavish production of Cinderella at Nottingham's Theatre Royal, playing "Buttons" as well as presenting his spectacular illusion act. Richard is the former 2018 President of the British Ring of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

Amethyst

Side Show Stunts β€” Wed (pre-convention), The Beacon
Side Show Stunts β€” The Beacon Shopping Centre (Wed)

International illusionists Danny Hunt and Stephanie Clarke, presenting Side Show Stunts ahead of the official convention opening.

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Amethyst are international illusionists Danny Hunt and Stephanie Clarke. Highly acclaimed as one of the UK's top magic and illusion acts, Amethyst have established themselves as world-class performers. With their fresh and dynamic approach, they lead the way in cruise ship, corporate and private events. Their unique and versatile shows have attracted world-wide acclaim and taken them around the globe, dazzling audiences in many countries. Presenting Side Show Stunts on the Wednesday afternoon before the official start of the convention.

Jamie Balfour-Paul

Magic For Smiles Charity Presentation β€” Thu 2pm
Magic For Smiles Charity Presentation

Stage name Jamie Jibberish; magician and aid worker who set up the charity Magic For Smiles.

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Jamie Balfour-Paul (stage name Jamie Jibberish) has performed magic since he was a boy but for most of his 30 year career has also been an aid worker in various countries. The two passions came together in early 2016 when Jamie set up the charity Magic For Smiles. The objective is to provide trauma relief and psychological support to deprived, mostly refugee, kids through interactive magic shows (and some tuition), operating in Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon with largely Syrian kids. The charity relies mostly on very welcome donations.

Bippo

Lecture: My Life, the Circus β€” Sat 4:30pm
Lecture: My Life, the Circus

Circus clown who has toured with Garry Cottle's and Zippo's Circuses and worked with Charlie Cairoli and Norman Barrett.

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Deciding that he wanted to be a clown at the age of three, Bippo joined the circus as a young teenager, taking his parents with him! He has toured with Garry Cottle's and Zippo's Circuses, worked with Charlie Cairoli and Norman Barrett, appeared on television, in pantomime, and at St James Palace before Prince Charles. Bippo works regularly as a circus skills trainer and teaches young performers juggling and comedy skills. His lecture, 'My Life, the Circus', is an in-depth look into the circus world and his unique story of when he not just ran away to join the circus but took his parents with him.

Adam Black

Close Up Competition β€” Sat 11am
Close Up Competition

Current Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year, with a passion for magic since around age 10.

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Current Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year, Adam has had a passion for magic since around the age of 10. Adam has also won other awards including the Edinburgh MagicFest Under 18s competition in 2012 (aged just 11!), the IBM British Ring Theo Speaker Cup in the 2017 Stage Competition and the SAMS Scottish Stage Magician of the Year. A keen puzzle enthusiast, Adam has combined his love of the Rubik's Cube with his magic β€” when Rubik's needed a magician to entertain their guests at a London event, they turned to Adam. Hailing from Dunblane in Scotland, Adam was bitten by the magic bug after attending a magic-themed event at Stirling Castle. Since then, he has performed at events across the country, including Edinburgh Castle's first major evening event, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scottish Television's "Live at 5" show and many of the Edinburgh Magic Festival's shows since winning that competition back in 2012.

Florian Brooks

An Evening of Magic
An Evening of Magic

Graduate of Ecole Superiore des Arts de Cirque in Brussels, performing an elegant and nonchalant close-up act.

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After graduating from Ecole Superiore des Arts de Cirque in Brussels, Florian has developed his acts in some of London's most prestigious hotels and venues, leading to an elegant and nonchalant performance. With his love for what he has nominated as "useless skills", he brings a collection of surprising and intimate moments for the audience to enjoy.

Tom Crosbie

Fringe Show: Performing Nerd β€” Fri 7:15pm
Fringe Show β€” Performing Nerd

Entertainer, speaker, pedant.

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Entertainer. Speaker. Pedant. Tom Crosbie is not a comedian, but he will leave you laughing, he's not a magician, but he will leave you scratching your head, he's not a juggler, but he will leave you with your jaw on the floor.

Roy Davenport

An Evening of Magic
An Evening of Magic

Fourth generation magician and Member of the Inner Magic Circle; World Junior Magic Champion in 1988 and British Magical Champion at fifteen.

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Roy is a fourth generation magician, and Member of the Inner Magic Circle. His many awards include World Junior Magic Champion in 1988 and in the senior category, British Magical Champion when only fifteen years old. Further afield, he has won competitions in Denmark, Italy, Austria and was a prize winner in Manipulation at the World Magic Championships (FISM) in Dresden in 1997, the first British success for 36 years. Roy trained at Mountview Theatre School, London, on the Musical Theatre and Acting course, and his experience includes summer seasons and cruise work on ships such as QE2. Contracts have taken Roy to theatres all over the world from the Cirque Magique D'Alsace in Strasbourg to It's Magic in Los Angeles, USA, the Hansa Theatre, Hamburg, Germany, and the Magic Castle, Hollywood. When Roy is not in theatre he is busy with private and corporate functions, performing close-up magic for companies such as British Airways, British Telecom, Credit Suisse, First Boston and Morgan Stanley at the Trianon Palace, Versailles.

Eddie Dawes

History of Mystery (Chair) β€” Thu 2pm
History of Mystery (Chair) β€” Willane: Music and Magic

Founded and has chaired the History of Mystery session since his Presidential year of 1972/3.

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Eddie, who in his Presidential year of 1972/3, founded and has since organised and chaired what has become known as the History of Mystery session, this year contributes to the programme the story of the meteoric but short career of Willane with his 'Music and Magic.'

Harry De Cruz

Fringe Show β€” Fri 2pm; Lecture: Edinburgh Fringe 101 β€” Sat 1:30pm
Fringe ShowLecture: Edinburgh Fringe 101 (with Edward Hilsum)

Magician, comedian and "Swiss Army knife of skills"; Head of Magic for the Dynamo creative team.

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A magician, comedian and the "Swiss Army knife of skills". Having spent his entire life learning magic, along with every other bizarre skill he could find, Harry De Cruz is now a master of the unnecessary. Blending these stunts with comedy and storytelling, he creates refreshingly unique and unforgettable performances. As well as his own smash-hit shows Harry is also at the forefront of the new generation of creative minds which led to him being 'Head of Magic' of the Dynamo creative team.

Miss Degenerate

An Evening of Magic
An Evening of Magic

Former high flying trapeze artist turned hula hoop performer; toured with the Circus of Horrors.

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Having just completed a 100 date theatre tour with the Circus of Horrors, this summer she has appeared at many festivals here in the UK (including Download and Glastonbury) and in Germany and Holland. A former high flying trapeze artist, she now performs the funkiest and fastest hula hoop act you will ever see.

Lady Sarah & Keith Fields

Opening Show: A Brit of Magic β€” Thu 10:45am
Opening Show β€” A Brit of Magic

Keith Fields started as a street entertainer; Lady Sarah is the daughter of a playwright with an unrequited love for new shoes.

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Keith Fields started his performing life as a street entertainer and his unique comedy style opened doors into the comedy clubs where he got as many laughs as the comedians. This led to headline tours in Europe and Asia, appearances at arts festivals, on TV and performances for the armed forces overseas. He was even asked to perform for the British royal family. Nowadays he works mainly in theatres but his style can still be traced back to its roots. A master of the art of audience participation, Keith manages to walk the fine line of being hilariously funny but never embarrassing his volunteers β€” people who would never normally get on stage simply love becoming the stars of the show, one of the hallmarks of his work. Lady Sarah is the daughter of a playwright who has been performing since she was five years old. She describes herself as 'eccentric but mature' and has an unrequited love for new shoes! Shakespeare said 'all the world's a stage', and for Lady Sarah that is definitely true. She is a real English lady and sounds like she has come straight from an episode of Downton Abbey. If she had time she would make you a nice cup of tea and some crumpets. She frequently has to keep Keith on track when he starts wandering off script, as he often does. Direct from the Magic Castle, Keith Fields and Lady Sarah present their show 'A Brit of Magic'.

James Freedman

Stars of Close Up β€” Fri noon; Lecture: Go on... Steal Yourself β€” Sun 2:45pm
Stars of Close UpAn Evening of MagicLecture: Go on... Steal Yourself

Member of The Inner Magic Circle and two-time winner of The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year; the UK's number one pickpocket.

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James is a Member of The Inner Magic Circle and a two-times winner of The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year Award, but now uses sleight of hand in a different field... as a pickpocket! James has entertained the Royal Family on several occasions and is the only person to have picked the pockets of the Mayor of London, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Governor of the Bank of England! No wonder then that his hands have been insured for Β£1 million! In 2015, his one man show 'James Freedman: Man of Steal' transferred to London's West End and City of London Police invited James to become the UK Fraud Prevention Ambassador. He regularly speaks to business audiences on the subjects of crime prevention, social engineering and theft; combining performance skills and expert knowledge to help reduce fraud. His Sunday lecture, 'Go on... Steal Yourself', is a rare live masterclass from the man that Time Magazine called "the world's number one pickpocket".

Paul Gordon

Workshop β€” Thu 2:45pm; Stars of Close Up β€” Fri noon
Workshop β€” Hands-on Card SkillsStars of Close Up

Professional close-up magician, best-selling author and Associate of The Inner Magic Circle; 2018 John Nevil Maskelyne Prize for Literature winner.

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Paul Gordon is a professional close-up magician and entertainer, best-selling author and an Associate of The Inner Magic Circle. He has lectured and performed at 4Fs, Tannen's Jubilee, Penguin Live, FFAP (France), At The Table Live, The Magic Circle, Monaco All Stars, Blackpool Magic Convention and more. The card magic of Paul Gordon has received rave reviews by many. As a close-up magician and entertainer for weddings, parties, dinners and corporate hospitality, Paul has travelled worldwide with an act that is great fun as well as very magical. In 2018, Paul was awarded The John Nevil Maskelyne Prize for Literature.

Mel Harvey

Stars of Close Up β€” Fri noon; An Evening of Magic
Stars of Close UpAn Evening of Magic

Showbusiness career started as a Red Coat at Butlins; current President of Northamptonshire Magicians Club.

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Mel's showbusiness career started as a Red Coat at Butlins. Since then he has appeared on TV, in theatre, in pantomime, and in a host of venues around the world. He presents Punch and Judy shows, his own magic show, works on various cruise lines, enjoys doing Old Time Music Hall and recently has become involved with Ghost Walks. Currently President of Northamptonshire Magicians Club, Mel brings a wealth of experience and performs his comedy show following the Stage Competition.

David Hibberd

History of Mystery β€” Thu 2pm
History of Mystery β€” Treasures of The Magic Circle Archive

Archivist of The Magic Circle and compiler of the Chronicle of Magic 1900–1999.

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David, the Archivist of The Magic Circle and compiler of the invaluable Chronicle of Magic 1900-1999, has during the last two decades done a wonderful job in organising and cataloguing this tremendous historical resource which has been in existence since 1905. His History of Mystery contribution is 'Treasures of The Magic Circle Archive.'

Edward Hilsum

An Evening of Magic; Closing Show: Silver β€” Sun 4pm
An Evening of MagicLecture: Edinburgh Fringe 101 (with Harry De Cruz)Closing Show β€” Silver

Voted 'Stage Magician of the Year 2018' by The Magic Circle and 'British Champion of Magic' by the I.B.M.

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Edward Hilsum was voted 'Stage Magician of the Year 2018' by The Magic Circle, 'British Champion of Magic' by the International Brotherhood of Magicians and 'International Rising Star of Magic' by the renowned Magicana organisation. His debut one-man show 'Edward Hilsum: Genie' won critical acclaim at the Edinburgh International Fringe Festival and for five years he starred in the record-breaking 'Champions of Magic' spectacular, touring theatres throughout the UK and North America. Aside from performing, Edward is the founder of production company Love Variety. He has co-written and directed a number of productions including the hit West End show 'James Freedman: Man of Steal' and 'Sensation: The Greatest Variety Artists... Live!'. Direct from the 2019 Edinburgh International Fringe Festival, Edward closes the convention with his intimate and heart-warming new show 'Silver'.

Hocus Pocus Magic & Illusion

An Evening of Magic
An Evening of Magic

Female illusionists from the Wookey Hole Cave complex, originally members of the Gerry Cottle Circus family.

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From the famous Wookey Hole Cave complex deep in Somerset (the home of Carnivals and Festivals) comes Hocus Pocus. These female illusionists show a short segment of their amazing magic and incredible illusions spectacular that is usually only performed in the Wookey Hole Theatre. All originally members of the Gerry Cottle Circus family, the Witches of Wookey Hole will actually cut a man in half β€” not to be seen anywhere else!

Joshua Jay

Stars of Close Up β€” Fri noon; Lecture: Close Up and Parlour Magic β€” Sat 3pm
Stars of Close UpLecture: Close Up and Parlour Magic of Joshua Jay

Performer, lecturer, author, and co-owner of Vanishing Inc.; world champion for close-up magic at seventeen.

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Joshua Jay, a performer, lecturer, author, and co-owner of Vanishing Inc., maintains a globetrotting performance schedule, having performed in over 100 countries with regular appearances on national television. His performance style is completely unique: he performs with ordinary, borrowed objects, causing them to twist, bend, appear, and vanish at will. At only seventeen years old Joshua Jay was crowned world champion for close-up magic at the World Magic Seminar, and he is now regarded as one of the leading creative forces in the magic world. He was awarded the top prize at the World Magic Seminar in 1998. He fooled Penn and Teller on their hit show, Fool Us, and he holds a Guinness World Record for card tricks. Jay has done magic on numerous television shows, most recently Good Morning America and The Today Show. In January 2018, Joshua was recognised by the Society of American Magicians with their highest proclamation, for his contribution to the art of magic.

Graham Lee

Balloon Workshop β€” Fri & Sat
Balloon Workshop

Professional entertainer for over 29 years, entertaining family and young audiences with magic and balloon art.

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Graham has been in the entertainment business for over 29 years and is an experienced professional entertainer, entertaining family and young audiences all over the world with his magic and balloon art. He runs the Balloon Workshop, teaching balloon creations for everyone to learn, repeated across the convention.

Paul Megram

Compere β€” An Evening of Magic; The Sooty & Friends Show (Colonel Custard); Lecture β€” Sun 1:30pm
Compere β€” An Evening of MagicThe Sooty & Friends Show (Colonel Custard)Lecture

In the business for over 25 years; member of The Magic Circle who has lectured on stage, close-up and children's entertainment.

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Paul has been in the business for over 25 years, performing stage, close-up and children's/family entertainment. As a respected member of The Magic Circle, he has lectured for them on numerous occasions and now sits on the panel of experts for those taking membership examinations. He has performed in the National Finals of the Family Entertainer of the Year no fewer than 3 times and has never lost. He now judges the competition for the potential winners of this most coveted title. Paul joins Sooty this year as Colonel Custard, compères An Evening of Magic, and brings an all new lecture on family entertainment — last time it was all about the BUSINESS, now it's time for the SHOW, performing every routine on a regular basis and showing trick handling and performance techniques.

Scott Penrose

Jeffery Atkins Memorial Lecture: Owls and Oranges β€” Fri 10:30am
Jeffery Atkins Memorial Lecture β€” Owls and Oranges

President of The Magic Circle; "the epitome of the professional magician".

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President of The Magic Circle, Scott has been described as "the epitome of the professional magician". He has won major awards within magic and now mainly works as a magic consultant and illusion designer. He has been involved with numerous films, TV shows and stage productions, working with many stars of stage and screen. In the 2015 Christmas Special of QI, he surprised Stephen Fry with membership of The Magic Circle. Penrose is associated with Andrew Lloyd Webber and made the magical effects for his musical Love Never Dies and the 2019 film adaptation of his musical Cats. Brian Lead introduces Scott for this year's Jeffery Atkins Memorial Lecture, "Owls and Oranges."

Scott Pepper

Lecture: Family Entertainment β€” Thu 4:30pm
Lecture: Family Entertainment

Magician for over 25 years, from theatres to cruise ships to Hollywood's Magic Castle; manages The Magicians Agency Theatre in San Antonio.

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Scott Pepper has been a magician for over 25 years having started his career at just 10 years old when he won first place in a talent competition in Hastings and since then hasn't looked back. Scott has performed all over the world from theatres to cruise ships to 10,000 seat arenas to the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. He was recently featured on the CW Network's hit show Masters of Illusion where he performed some of his own unique magic and illusions. He was a regular on the Disney cruise ships for over six years, performing his large-scale illusion show for thousands of passengers a week. Originally from Essex in the UK, Scott now resides in San Antonio, Texas, where he manages and performs at his own theatre called 'The Magicians Agency Theatre' which is rated as one of the top 3 attractions in San Antonio. His lecture covers family entertainment: creating and choosing material, getting the gigs, and perfecting your own product, plus what it takes to start a theatre from scratch and run it on a weekly basis.

Peter Rann

Matcham Theatre Talk β€” Sat 4:30pm
Matcham Theatre Talk

Archivist at The King's Theatre Portsmouth; member of 'The Randini' family of magicians from the Isle of Wight.

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Peter Rann is an archivist at The King's Theatre Portsmouth and a member of The I.B.M., The Magic Circle and Equity. A member of 'The Randini' family of magicians from the Isle of Wight, he began as an assistant to his father 'The Great Randini', along with his siblings, David and Janet. Peter was a finalist in The Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year competition in 1971 and took part with his father in the British Ring IBM Shield competition as 'Will'um and Twitt'. He has performed magic, Punch and Judy and has clowned both here and in France, Belgium and Holland. His talk, 'A Brief Visit to the Magic World of Matchless Matcham', covers theatre architect Frank Matcham, who built and transformed theatres β€” including the London Palladium, Buxton Opera House and The Grand Theatre Blackpool β€” giving them a magical atmosphere for greats such as Harry Houdini, Lafayette, Carmo and Chung Ling Soo to perform in.

Tim Reed

History of Mystery β€” Thu 2pm
History of Mystery β€” The Paul Daniels Magic Show

Son of Paul Daniels' boyhood and lifelong friend Graham Reed.

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Tim, who is the son of Paul Daniels' boyhood and lifelong friend Graham Reed, has been uniquely placed to research the history and career of Paul and to assemble an amazing collection of Daniels' memorabilia and artefacts. His History of Mystery contribution is 'The Paul Daniels Magic Show β€” The Legacy Continues...'

Duo Roma

An Evening of Magic
An Evening of Magic

Former flying trapeze act from the Wookey Hole family β€” Craig Attmere and Walter Tacco β€” now presenting their crossbow act.

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Another amazing act from the Wookey Hole family come the former flying trapeze act β€” Duo Roma (Craig Attmere and Walter Tacco). Now presenting their new and dangerous crossbow act. Daring to be different! Delegates are asked to please stay seated whilst Duo Roma perform.

Mike Sullivan

Lecture: System 32 β€” Thu noon; Stars of Close Up β€” Fri noon
Lecture: System 32Stars of Close Up

Best known as the other half of DTRICK: The Magic of Wayne Dobson.

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Mike Sullivan is best known as the other half of DTRICK: The Magic of Wayne Dobson. Wayne describes Mike as his right (and left) hand man. However, Mike is also an accomplished professional close-up magician. A busy boy, Mike likes dynamic and to the point magic that will amaze and bemuse his audiences. Working with one of the world's most commercially prolific inventors of magic, it's not hard to assume his magic is exactly what it says on the tin. His lecture, 'System 32', is based on a system he came up with in 2015 β€” a secret to being a better performer which he has closely guarded, even from his closest colleagues.

Oliver Tabor

Lecture: Staging Magic β€” Sat 9:15am
Lecture: Staging MagicQ&A β€” Twins FX

Contemporary Conjuror and multi-award winning magician; 2017 European Championships of Magic winner and past British Ring Shield winner.

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Contemporary Conjuror. A multi-award winning magician, most recently winning at the 2017 European Championships of Magic and also a past winner of the British Ring Shield. Oliver is a full-time stage and close-up magician, specialising in stage magic and regularly performs in theatre shows and cabaret venues around the UK including residencies at the Leicester Square Theatre and the Hippodrome Casino in London. He has supplied entertainment to various events for over 20 years including corporate dinners, cruise ships, product launches, promotions, weddings, theatre shows, television, radio and private functions. He produces his own theatre productions throughout the year around the UK including his regular London show 'West End Magic' at the Leicester Square Theatre. He's also acted as a consultant to film and TV productions such as the Hollywood film 'Now You See Me 2' and BBC series London Spy. His lecture, 'Staging Magic', offers ideas and thoughts on effects for close-up, comedy, stage and children's magic, covering stagecraft, deconstructing routines, and the psychology of stealing and producing objects.

Twins FX

Q&A Session β€” Fri 3:30pm
Q&A Session

Identical twins Gary and Paul Hardy-Brown, leaders in theatrical visual special effects, illusions and animatronics.

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The Twins FX are leaders of theatrical visual special effects, illusions and animatronics. They make the impossible possible for theatre productions, film and television worldwide. Their portfolio includes soaring airborne flying dragons, a mighty 7m tall gorilla, slithering sea serpents, a hovering helicopter, monster sharks, Santa's levitating sleigh, a life size T-Rex, the world's largest pantomime giant, Cinderella's flying crystal coach, floating magic carpets, flying cars, 3 flying life size horses pulling a coach, a pink moped that flies and loops the loop in mid air, man eating crocodiles, a flying full size London bus.... The Twins FX were recognised as part of the creative team who helped Qdos Entertainments achieve their Olivier Award in London in April 2018. Led by identical twins Gary and Paul Hardy-Brown, located in Wareham in Dorset. Richard Cadell chats with Gary and Paul about their incredible lives in a Q&A session, with some questions taken from the audience.

Chris Wardle

Lecture: Something Old, Something New β€” Sun 10:15am
Lecture: Something Old, Something New

Teacher who devises magic effects; former winner of The Magic Circle's Cecil Lyle Award; Member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star.

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Chris is a teacher who spends his spare time devising magic effects. He has invented numerous tricks and has authored effects for a wide range of publications for the best part of 20 years. His ideas have appeared in several books and have been featured on TV, radio and on the stage. He contributed over 100 tricks to 'Abra' magazine and his material appeared in Ian Rowland's column in 'Magic' and Andi Gladwin's column in 'Genii'. He has his own regular column in The Magic Circle's monthly magazine and is a former winner of The Magic Circle's Cecil Lyle Award. Together with James Ward, Chris writes the 'Collaborative Conjuring' column in 'Key Ring' magazine. Chris has contributed to 'The British Ring Trick Parade' in 'The Linking Ring' magazine for the past 16 years. Chris is a Member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star. His lecture, 'Something Old, Something New', mixes favourite effects from over 20 years of publishing with brand-new items, covering close-up, stand-up, mentalism and children's magic.

Alex Zander

International President 2018–2019; Stars of Close Up β€” Fri noon
Stars of Close UpInternational President β€” Welcome

International President of the I.B.M.; began magic aged five with a set from Tony Eng's Trick and Joke Shop, Victoria, Canada.

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Our current, and youngest ever, International President started out as many do when he received a magic set as a present when he was five years old. However, it was a visit to Tony Eng's Trick and Joke Shop in Victoria, Canada, where he took his first steps in the art of magic. With regional, national and international gold medals under his belt in comedy, children's magic, close-up and stage, his talents have been recognised many times over. Alex has served as a magic consultant for film and television on the CW network and Hulu. As a fulltime event producer and magician touring across North America throughout the year, Alex has gained insight into the true value of our magical fraternity. The I.B.M. has been an important part of his learning in magic and because of that he now seeks to do what he can to enhance this in his role as our International President.

Your Convention Programme

What's On

Browse shows, lectures, competitions, workshops and social events day by day.

Wednesday 4 September 2019
TBC

Side Show Stunts: Amethyst

Other Amethyst The Beacon Shopping Centre
Performing in the Beacon Shopping Centre ahead of the official start of the convention.
Thursday 5 September 2019
09:30

Registration Desk Opens

General Welcome Building
Carol Tynan and her registration team welcome everyone and distribute the delegate packs. The desk remains open until 5pm.
10:30

Official Opening

General Devonshire Park Theatre
The British Ring President, Brian Lead, in the presence of The International President of the I.B.M., Alex Zander, and The Deputy Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Sammy Choudhury, officially opens the convention for 2019.
10:45

Opening Show: A Brit of Magic

Show Lady Sarah & Keith Fields Devonshire Park Theatre
Direct from the Magic Castle, Keith Fields and Lady Sarah present their show 'A Brit of Magic'.
12:00

Lecture: Mike Sullivan β€” System 32

Lecture Mike Sullivan Welcome Building Stickland Studio
12:30

Dealers' Exhibition Opens

Dealer Welcome Building Exhibition Space
Exhibition Space, Welcome Building. Closes at 5.30pm.
14:00

History of Mystery

Other Eddie Dawes Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Organised and Chaired by Eddie Dawes. Tim Reed β€” The Paul Daniels Magic Show: The Legacy Continues... Eddie Dawes β€” Willane: The Short but Remarkable Career of a Creative Performer. David Hibberd β€” Treasures of The Magic Circle Archive.
14:00

Magic For Smiles Charity Presentation

Other Jamie Balfour-Paul Welcome Building Atkins Corner
Jamie Balfour-Paul gives an insight into the incredible charity work he does through his magic with refugee children in Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon.
14:45

Workshop with Paul Gordon

Workshop Paul Gordon Welcome Building Atkins Corner
Hands on workshop with Paul. Want to increase your card skills? This is where to go!
16:30

Lecture: Scott Pepper

Lecture Scott Pepper Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Family entertainment; Creating and choosing material. Getting the gigs and perfecting your own product.
19:15

British Ring Shield Competition

Competition Devonshire Park Theatre
Followed by the Award Ceremony after a short break and a performance by Mel Harvey. Details on programme page 14.
Friday 6 September 2019
09:00

Annual General Meeting

Meeting Welcome Building Orwell Room
10:15

Registration Desk Opens

General Welcome Building
Due to the AGM taking place this morning, the Registration Desk does not open until 10.15am. Open until 5pm.
10:15

Dealers' Exhibition Opens

Dealer Welcome Building Exhibition Space
Open 10.15am–5pm.
10:30

Jeffery Atkins Memorial Lecture: Scott Penrose β€” Owls and Oranges

Lecture Scott Penrose Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Presented annually as a fitting tribute to a long serving and dedicated member of the British Ring. Brian Lead introduces Scott Penrose.
12:00

Stars of Close Up

Show Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Performers include Paul Gordon, Mel Harvey, Joshua Jay, Mike Sullivan and Alex Zander.
12:00

Balloon Workshop

Workshop Graham Lee Welcome Building Atkins Corner
Balloon creations for everyone to learn. Graham Lee passes on his years of experience and teaches the skill of this craft. This workshop is repeated on Saturday.
14:00

Fringe Show: Harry De Cruz

Show Harry De Cruz Devonshire Park Theatre
Everyone has a party trick. Harry has 374 and counting. The multidisciplined master brings his Edinburgh fringe smash hit one-man show to the I.B.M., taking on challenges from the audience and revealing the heartwarming and surprising story that led Dynamo to crown him "The King of party tricks".
15:30

Q&A β€” Twins FX

Other Twins FX Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Richard Cadell chats with Gary and Paul about their incredible lives. Questions can be submitted before the event to the Registration Desk, and if time permits some questions may be taken from the audience.
19:15

Fringe Show: Tom Crosbie β€” Performing Nerd

Show Tom Crosbie Devonshire Park Theatre
Tom Crosbie is not a comedian, but he will leave you laughing. He's not a magician, but he will leave you scratching your head. He's not a juggler, but he will leave you with your jaw on the floor.
20:30

Ali Bongo Micro Marathon

Social The Stage Door Bar
The Stage Door Bar, between the Welcome Building and Devonshire Park Theatre. If you want to enter, make sure you speak with Rick Tynan as soon as possible to get your name on the list.
Saturday 7 September 2019
09:15

Lecture: Oliver Tabor β€” Staging Magic

Lecture Oliver Tabor Welcome Building Stickland Studio
A varied, unique and elegant twist on stage magic including magic with bubbles.
10:30

The Sooty & Friends Show

Show Richard Cadell & Sooty Devonshire Park Theatre
Sooty is joined this year by Paul Megram, AKA Colonel Custard, and Bippo the Clown. Not included within Registration for delegates; a limited number of reduced-price tickets available at the Registration Desk.
11:00

Close Up Competition

Competition Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Followed by the Awards. Details on programme page 15.
13:30

Lecture: Harry De Cruz & Edward Hilsum β€” Edinburgh Fringe 101

Lecture Harry De Cruz Welcome Building Stickland Studio
From Monty Python to Billy Connolly to Piff the Magic Dragon. Everything you need to know about performing and surviving at the world's largest arts festival.
13:30

Balloon Workshop

Workshop Graham Lee Welcome Building Atkins Corner
This workshop is a repeat from Friday. Balloon creations for everyone to learn.
15:00

Lecture: Joshua Jay

Lecture Joshua Jay Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Close Up and Parlour Magic of Joshua Jay.
16:30

Lecture: Bippo β€” My Life, the Circus

Lecture Bippo Welcome Building Stickland Studio
An in-depth look into the circus world and Bippo's unique story of when he not just ran away to join the circus but took his parents with him.
16:30

Matcham Theatre Talk: Peter Rann

Other Peter Rann Welcome Building Atkins Corner
'A Brief Visit to the Magic World of Matchless Matcham'. Matcham was not a magician but built and transformed theatres, giving them a magical atmosphere for greats such as Harry Houdini, Lafayette, Carmo and Chung Ling Soo β€” theatres such as The London Palladium, Buxton Opera House and The Grand Theatre Blackpool are just some of the 150 he was involved in in his lifetime.
19:30

An Evening of Magic

Gala Devonshire Park Theatre
Compere: Paul Megram. 1st Half: Zoe Pennington Dancers, Roy Davenport, Florian Brooks, Edward Hilsum, Miss Degenerate, Sooty with Richard Cadell. 2nd Half: Zoe Pennington Dancers, Paul Megram, Duo Roma, James Freedman, Florian Brooks, Hocus Pocus.
Sunday 8 September 2019
09:30

Convention Service

Other Welcome Building Atkins Corner
Conducted by Alan Clarke. The service is non-denominational with a collection for the Welfare fund.
10:15

Lecture: Chris Wardle β€” Something Old, Something New

Lecture Chris Wardle Welcome Building Stickland Studio
A mixture of favourite effects from over 20 years of publishing his ideas in magic magazines, interspersed with many brand-new items. Something for everyone, covering close-up, stand-up, mentalism and children's magic effects.
11:45

Youth Show

Show Devonshire Park Theatre
Young magicians present their magic. Performers include Jake Allen, Robbie Stevens, Zach Weaver and Amos Wollen, who show delegates that the magic of the future is in safe hands.
13:30

Lecture: Paul Megram

Lecture Paul Megram Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Paul brings an all new lecture on family entertainment. Last time it was all about the BUSINESS, now it's time for the SHOW. Paul performs every routine on a regular basis, showing trick handling and performance techniques.
14:45

Lecture: James Freedman β€” Go on... Steal Yourself

Lecture James Freedman Welcome Building Stickland Studio
Whether you want to develop a pickpocket act or simply add some pickpocket steals to an existing magic act, this is a rare live masterclass from the man that Time Magazine called "the world's number one pickpocket".
16:00

Closing Show β€” Edward Hilsum: Silver

Show Edward Hilsum Devonshire Park Theatre
Direct from the 2019 Edinburgh International Fringe Festival! In his intimate and heart-warming new show, Edward shares 'absolutely beautiful illusions' and 'immaculate sleight-of-hand' that 'makes you believe in real magic'.
17:15

Installation & Close of Convention

General Devonshire Park Theatre
Alan Maskell is installed as the new president, and performs his first duty by closing the 2019 convention.
Learn From the Artists

Convention Lectures

Explore the lectures and specialist sessions in the programme.

System 32

"No magic here!.." Mike Sullivan presents a lecture based on a system he came up with in 2015. A secret to being a better performer which he has closely guarded, even from his closest colleagues. Exclusively to the I.B.M., Mike shares this system which has "saved his bacon" on many occasions. If you are a working pro, amateur or hobbyist and want to be ready for any situation then this lecture is for you!

Workshop with Paul Gordon

Hands-on card skills workshop

Hands on workshop with Paul. Want to increase your card skills? This is where to go!

Family Entertainment

Creating and choosing material. Getting the gigs and perfecting your own product.

Scott has specialised in family entertainments most of his life. In this lecture Scott shares some of the routines he created for Disney Cruise Lines, as well as valuable information about choosing material for these types of shows. He shows how to perform for children, adults and seniors all at the same time and still keep the effects in the show strong and visual. He also talks about what it takes to start a theatre from scratch and run it on a weekly basis.

Jeffery Atkins Memorial Lecture

Owls and Oranges

Presented annually as a fitting tribute to a long serving and dedicated member of the British Ring. Brian Lead introduces Scott Penrose, "Owls and Oranges."

Staging Magic

Delivering a varied, unique and elegant twist on stage magic including magic with bubbles, Oliver offers ideas and thoughts on effects for close-up, comedy, stage and children's magic. Throughout the explanations he illustrates how to make performances more powerful by applying the rules of stagecraft, how to deconstruct a routine or act whilst eliminating any unnecessary movements and actions, his evolution of ideas and inspiration behind a working routine and how to give magic more of an impact in general. He also covers his thoughts on stage magic with an introduction into how the techniques, psychology and rules followed by stage manipulators can easily be applied to all performance situations: from cabaret to close-up and from parlour to children's shows, plus explains the thoughts and workings behind stealing objects and how these methods can be adapted to produce a range of different objects.

Edinburgh Fringe 101

From Monty Python to Billy Connolly to Piff the Magic Dragon. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival has given birth to many performers we know and love today. Find out everything you need to know about performing and surviving at the world's largest arts festival, covering the ups, downs, pros, cons, do's and don'ts of putting on your own show. Hosted by Harry De Cruz and Edward Hilsum.

Close Up and Parlour Magic of Joshua Jay

My Life, the Circus

An in-depth look into the circus world and Bippo's unique story of when he not just ran away to join the circus but took his parents with him. The lecture also includes talks about the different comedy styles Bippo has experienced on his journey and how magic is a big part of circus in 2019.

Something Old, Something New

A mixture of favourite effects from over 20 years of publishing ideas in magic magazines, interspersed with many brand-new items. Something for everyone, as Chris reveals crafty methods for close-up, stand-up, mentalism and children's magic effects.

Paul Megram Lecture

Paul brings an all new lecture on family entertainment. Last time it was all about the BUSINESS, now it's time for the SHOW. Paul performs every routine on a regular basis, showing trick handling and performance techniques.

Go on... Steal Yourself

Whether you want to develop a pickpocket act or simply add some pickpocket steals to an existing magic act, this is a rare live masterclass from the man that Time Magazine called "the world's number one pickpocket".

British Ring Competitions

Competition Programme

Competition information, entry details, rules, timings and locations.

British Ring Shield Competition

Organised by Oliver Tabor. Compered and introduced by Don Greenberg. Running order of competitors: 1. Fraser Stokes (Maybole, Ayrshire), 2. Darren Wray (Perranporth, Cornwall), 3. Gary Jones (Swanley, Kent), 4. Jay Gatling (Llandudno, Conwy), 5. Philip Partridge (Manchester, Greater Manchester), 6. Nikola Arkane (Belfast, Northern Ireland), 7. Jad Helal (Fribourg, Switzerland). Followed by the Award Ceremony after a short break and a performance by Mel Harvey.

Competition details & rules

The British Ring Shield is awarded only to an act achieving outstanding magical excellence. British Ring Trophy β€” 1st place plus Β£500 for the most entertaining magic act. Theo Speaker Cup β€” plus Β£250 for the runner up. Alastair Wand β€” plus Β£100 for the third prize. Conventioneers Trophy for originality shown in effect, method or presentation. Dittia Shield awarded for Manipulation. Tom Harris Cup awarded for Comedy. Chair of Judges: Alan Maskell. Judges: Harry De Cruz, Keith Fields, Edward Hilsum, Scott Pepper. Timekeeper: Tony Brooks. Assistant Timekeeper: Chris Poole.

The British Ring Close Up Competition

Organised and introduced by Bill Simpson. Competitors: Nikola Arkane (Belfast), Adam Black (Dunblane), Mark Newsome (Macclesfield), Philip Partridge (Manchester), Marcus Taylor (Shrewsbury), Rick Tynan (Southport), Darren Wray (Perranporth). Special Guest: Terry Herbert.

Competition details & rules

1st prize the Zina Bennett Trophy plus Β£500. 2nd prize Β£250. 3rd prize Β£100. The 'Rovi' Trophy will be awarded for the most entertaining and skilful act using cards. Judges: Dave Andrews, Roy Field, Doug Gregg, Brian Lead. Timekeeper: Tony Brooks. Assistant Timekeeper: Chris Poole. Stage Manager: Aidan Heritage.

Ali Bongo Micro Marathon

A fun micro-magic competition, with competitors visiting as many tables as possible in around an hour and the winner decided by audience vote.

Competition details & rules

Awarded for the Ali Bongo Micro Marathon Trophy.

Dealers Trophy

Awarded to the dealer presenting the most attractive stand at the Dealers' Magical Trade Fair. Historically also known as the Craig Trophy / Craig Cup.

Competition details & rules

Judged during Convention week; awarded for the best-presented dealer stand at the Trade Fair.

Dealer Exhibition

Meet the Dealers

Discover the dealers, creators and magical suppliers attending the convention.

Dark Arts Leathercraft

Paul Gordon

The Magic Circle

Brian Berry

Mel Harvey

Magic Zone Enterprises

Graham Lee

DTRICK: The Magic of Wayne Dobson

British Ring Welfare Stand

Dave Shaw Quality Props

Getting Around

Convention Venues

Find the buildings, halls, theatres and rooms used throughout the convention.

Main Venue

Welcome Building

Stickland Studio
Atkins Corner
Orwell Room
Exhibition Space
Gala

Devonshire Park Theatre

Social

The Stage Door Bar

Other

The Beacon Shopping Centre

Pre-convention Side Show Stunts performance, Wednesday afternoon.

Competition Results

Convention Winners

Celebrating the performers recognised through the British Ring competition programme.

Hamish (Fraser Stokes)

Dittia Shield β€” Manipulation

British Ring Shield Competition

Marcus Taylor

Rovi Trophy β€” Best Card Act

The British Ring Close Up Competition

Not awarded

Conventioneers Trophy β€” Originality

British Ring Shield Competition

Not awarded

Tom Harris Cup β€” Comedy

British Ring Shield Competition

Brian Berry

Dealers Trophy β€” Best Stand

Dealers Trophy

Hamish (Fraser Stokes)

1st Place β€” British Ring Trophy

British Ring Shield Competition

Nikola Arkane

1st Place β€” Zina Bennett Trophy

The British Ring Close Up Competition

Nikola Arkane

Ali Bongo Micro Marathon Winner

Ali Bongo Micro Marathon

Adam Black

2nd Place

The British Ring Close Up Competition

Jay Gatling

2nd Place β€” Theo Speaker Cup

British Ring Shield Competition

Marcus Taylor

3rd Place

The British Ring Close Up Competition

Philip Partridge

3rd Place β€” Alastair Wand

British Ring Shield Competition

Explore More British Ring Conventions

This page remains part of the permanent British Ring convention archive. Explore upcoming conventions and discover more from the history of British magic.