Jason Latimer's Impossible Science Stage Show at UTS

From the January 31st article "Toronto student wins First Prize in Engineering.com's Impossible Science Challenge. Jason Latimer, World Champion Magician to perform live for her school on February 6th." on the PR Newswire:

Jason Latimer, World Champion Magician, Curator of Impossible Science and Science Channel Host, is flying into Toronto on Wednesday, February 6, to perform his Impossible Science Stage Show LIVE for students at University of Toronto Schools (UTS). #BestAssemblyEver

"He's coming for one reason, Ananya Chadha. Ananya is an extraordinary STEM mind, TKS innovator, and grade 11 student who won the challenge with her project that used EEG's and electrodes to control a remote controlled car with her brain!" commented Lauren Baldesarra, Chief Creative Officer, engineering.com and Co-founder of ProjectBoard.

https://projectboard.engineering.com/project/impossible-science-challenge-brain-controlled-car

Read more.

Ryan Michael in Global News

You can see Ryan on Feb. 2 at Dakoda’s Sports Bar and Grill in Kelowna.

From the January 25th article, "‘It’s all about creating that one moment of mystery’: Kelowna magician sets sights on America’s Got Talent" by Shay Galor in Global News:

“I think the first time I ever saw a trick was David Blaine on television with his first special. Me and my dad watched it,” Michael said. “I think we must have watched it 100 times or more, just watching every little thing that he did. And it was amazing. It totally hooked me right away.”

Michael has been practicing magic for about a decade, with six of those years performing professionally in front of audiences across the country.

“The whole reason that I do magic, aside from creating a connection with people, is that one moment where your brain disconnects from reality and has to think about what just happened,” Michael said.

Read more and watch video.

The top 5 posts in January 2019

There were 43+ posts at Canada's Magic this month.  Here are the 5 most viewed posts in the past 30 days:

5. Toronto: Talent announced for the 2019 Browser's Bash -  Including: Chris Capehart, Paul Richards, The Outerbridges, Dick Joiner, Ryan Brown, Garrett Thomas, James Harrison, Jacque Swan, Robert & Scott Presswood, Andrew Woo, Jenny Parsons, and Chris Bruce.  What a lineup!

4. Sleightly Sketchy: #FemaleMagician - Are you #PartOfTheSolution?

3. Toronto: Free magic club - That was last month's.  Don't forget there's one coming up this Saturday.  Thank you Jeff, for your support of the magic community!

2. MagicTube - Hopefully they'll add more Canadians.

and the most viewed post this month  ...

1. Toronto: Michel Huot lecture - So, how was it?

Michael Close Webinar: The Truth about Lying (take 2)

From Michael Close's Facebook post:

Lisa and I have received a lot of emails from people who arrived too late for the party that was the Truth about Lying webinar. So we're going to present it again. This is not a rebroadcast; it will be a live presentation, which means you'll be able to ask questions as we go along. The response of the first webinar was overwhelmingly positive.

The date for this is Thursday, January 31, at 9:00 p.m. EST. You can register at the link below. Please feel free to share this post. The webinar is for magicians of all interests and skill levels. Thanks. 

Read more and register.

Some thoughts on the webinar from our readers ...

Hey, everyone, @MikeCloseMagic gave a great webinar explaining the truth about lying. Unless the whole thing was a lie, and we didn’t catch on. :) The webinar was super affordable, too… and that’s no lie!

— Doug C. (@magicinfo_ca) January 27, 2019

Toronto: Greg Wilson lecture - "Things I carry and use..."

From the Browser's Den of Magic:

Wednesday, February 20, 2019

Please Pay at the Door $20 (Standing Room Only)

From the man who brought us such gems as Pointless, Bandwidth, Revolution, Cold Case, Unleashed, Hundy 500 and so much more, Greg Wilson is bringing his brand-new lecture to the Browser's Den! He's a two-time FISM winner, he had an entire chapter dedicated to his magic in Paul Harris' ART OF ASTONISHMENT books, and now he's coming to share his decades of knowledge with you!

Just like the title, Greg's lecture will use things that fit in his pockets and things found around him, teaching you to be ever-ready for performing spur-of-the-moment astonishments.

Building on his best-selling videos “Off the Cuff” and “On the Spot”, Greg teaches you how to convert everyday objects into devastating weapons of deception. The emphasis here is on ENTERTAINMENT. From close-up to stand-up, there’s something for everyone.

Now just because it’s called a lecture doesn’t mean it has to be dry and academic. You will experience a rip-roaring, laugh-out-loud, audience-involving show! Greg will not only fool you, he'll have you laughing and clapping along the way!

This is one lecture you DO NOT WANT TO MISS!

Please Pay at the Door $20 (Standing Room Only)

Thank you for your kind support - The Jeff's & The Browser's Den Team

Read more and buy tickets.

Toronto: Ryan Murray lecture

From the Browser's Den of Magic newsletter:

Sunday, February 10

Ryan Murray's new book 'Curious Weaving' has been completed (proofread by Jeff Hinchliffe). It is a book on one of the most talked about of all shuffles in 'magic' the Faro Shuffle.

The Faro Shuffle is a technique used by most of the top professional card handlers in the world.  However, it is a technique that requires study and effort. For those who enjoy memorized deck work the Faro shuffle is a valuable weapon.

Ryan will be covering different methods so that there is something of value for all skill levels including:  IN-HANDS FARO (Technique & Fixing Mistakes); PROPERTIES (Cycling Order, Straddle Faro; Controlling a Card to Any Position); TABLED FARO (Breakdown of Techniques, Checking for Mistakes, Controlling In or Out, Combining with Riffle Shuffle); DOUBLE FARO.

And he will be performing some effects from his new book.

Read more and buy tickets.

Toronto: Talent announced for the 2019 Browser's Bash

BROWSER'S BASH 2019
Saturday, April 13, 2019

Here's a summary of the awesome talent announced for this year's Bash!


From the Browser's Den of Magic:

CHRIS CAPEHART - LEGENDARY STREET PERFORMER
Chris Capehart is a master magician and a regular headliner at Monday Night Magic in New York City. Come see why he is held in such high esteem by magicians around the world.


PAUL RICHARDS - CREATIVE CONJUROR
Founder of Elmwood Magic. Mr. Richards has been around the globe sharing his wonderful brand of magic. Eye Popping magic combined with good fun. One of the true gentlemen of the world of magic.

THE OUTERBRIDGES - INTERNATIONAL ILLUSIONISTS
International Illusionists Ted & Marion Outerbridge will cast a magic spell over the audience at this year's Bash. And share some secrets too!

DICK JOINER - EMCEE
Due to popular demand...Joining us again in 2019! He will share his infectious hysterical laugh, fun-loving zany manner and high paced interactive comedy magic. Dick Joiner plans to delight and astound us all day long.



RYAN BROWN - RISING STAR
Ryan will be sharing with us his love of the classics. Card Manipulation, Rings and Magic that will have your eyes popping out! One of the young stars of the Canadian Magic Scene.

GARRETT THOMAS - MASTER MAGICIAN
Due to your huge amount of requests Mr. Thomas will be returning to the Bash stage in 2019. He truly blew us all away in 2018 and that was only half his lecture. Wait to you see part two! Thanks Garrett!

JAMES HARRISON - PICKPOCKET
Finally on the Bash stage! Pickpocket Act and one of Canada's premier close up magicians. Be ready to clap. And be ready to hold onto your wallets & watches!

JACQUE SWAN - COIN MAGICIENNE
Canadian new talent, Ms. Swan will be sharing some of her coin magic with us that will make your magic eyes pop out! Don't blink as coins vanish and reappear at a mystifying speed.



ROBERT AND SCOTT PRESSWOOD - THE BUMBLING BERTS
Two of the busiest children's performers in the GTA. Combined they give more then 600 shows annually. Sit it and learn on their tips for making your family show reach it's potential. (at lunch break)



ANDREW WOO
Sit in and learn from over 35 years of experience performing and creating magic. Simple Methods with Strong Audience Impact!



JENNY PARSONS - HIDDEN CANADIAN GEM
Is she a comedian? Is she a magician? Is she a sorceress? You'll decide. Ms. Parsons will be sharing her unique world of fun and chaos! A hidden gem of the Canadian entertainment scene



CHRIS BRUCE - CARDICIAN EXTRAORDINAIRE
FREE Lunchtime Table Class on False Shuffles, Classic Force & Top Change

 
Read more and register!

Toronto: Free magic club

This Saturday, February 2nd is The Browser's Den of Magic's next (Free) Magic Club meeting. All are welcome.

The club meets from 2:30pm to 5:30pm.

Magicana accepting nominations for the 2018 Allan Slaight awards

Still no sign of a category for "Best Blog Focused on Canadian Magicians Run by a Member of IBM Ring 17."
 

From Magicana:

Nominations are currently being accepted for work completed in 2018. The deadline for nominations is March 29, 2019. Nominations received after the deadline will be kept on file and considered for the following year.

Thank you for considering nominating someone for the Allan Slaight Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in the pursuit of the impossible. The nomination process consists of four steps:

1. Your information
2. Information about your nominee
3. Supporting documentation
4. Reviewing your information and submitting

In addition to basic information about you and your nominee, you will also have the opportunity to provide:

1. A biography (up to 750 words)
2. A description of the work and why you are nominating this person (up to 300 words)

Read more and submit your nominations!

Submissions for the Allan Slaight Awards are open! Nominate someone for extraordinary contributions in the pursuit of the impossible before March 29, 2019. https://t.co/OpHuCf80aN pic.twitter.com/yArMxp1slq

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) January 24, 2019

Remembering Dicky Dean

With thanks to André Rancourt for sending me to Deans of Magic.  From Deans of Magic:

1. When Dicky Dean was ten years old he received a small book on magic, by magician and writer Walter B. Gibson. It was a present from his aunt and uncle that was about to change his life. He never had heard of magic before, but as he started learning the secrets of magic, he knew he wanted to become a magician.
    
2. At age twelve he entered the entertainment section of the London Hobby Fair and won first prize. It was also very fortunate for him that London’s foremost magician Everette Mires and his wife, Sue, were present in the audience to see his show and meet him. Later, he learned numerous tricks from Everette as well as how to properly present them. Even with their large differences in age they became best friends.

Read more.

Dicky and Marg were one of the first magic acts I saw as a child. They truly inspired me. I was honoured 20 years later to see them in the audience at one of my own shows and to speak with them afterwards. He was a great magician and a very gracious person. RIP to the Dean. https://t.co/5VNRItECkG

— Aaron Paterson (@AaronPMagic) January 25, 2019

The community remembers Denny Haney

As you may be aware, Denny Haney passed away earlier this week.

Here are a few memories from around the internet.


From Benzi Train's Facebook page:





From Shane Cobalt's Facebook page:

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From Shawn Farquhar's Facebook page:





From Matt DiSero's Facebook page:

The Magic Circle of Saint John in the CBC

From the January 26th article "Inside the spellbinding world of Saint John's Magic Circle" by Julia Wright in the CBC:

The former Carnegie library in Saint John is a pretty ideal place for a magicians meeting.

It certainly has the right ambience: a 115-year-old, brick, Beaux-Arts-style building with a stained-glass skylight and mosaic floors.

Every month the Saint John Arts Centre hosts the Magic Circle of Saint John — a haven for sleight-of-hand artists, ventriloquists, jugglers, mind-readers, and other practitioners of unusual feats and magical effects.

The Magic Circle of Saint John is a haven for sleight-of-hand artists, ventriloquists, jugglers, mind-readers, and other practitioners of unusual feats and magical effects. 1:04
The club encourages aspiring magicians to develop their skills and "think out of the box," said club president Tabraze Sheikh, a self-professed fan of "puzzles, hard-to-answer questions, and mystery."

Read more and watch video.

Rounding the Western rings in February 2019

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

City	Club	Event(s)
Calgary, AB	Ring 66 (Calgary Magic Circle, Les Brocklesby Ring)	- Gregory Wilson lecture. - Club meeting.
Edmonton, AB	Edmonton Magic Club	- Gregory Wilson lecture.
Winnipeg, MB	The Magic Club of Winnipeg	- Gregory Wilson lecture.
Fraser Valley, BC	IBM Ring 387 (Fraser Valley Magic Circle, Celeste Evans Ring)	- Gregory Wilson lecture.
Vancouver, BC	Ring 92 (Vancouver Magic Circle)	- N/A
Vancouver, BC	SAM 95  (Carl Hemeon Assembly)	- 'Love, Magic & Dinner' starring Michael Finney
Victoria, BC	Ring 183 (Victoria Magic Circle)	- Gregory Wilson lecture.

Please leave a comment or e-mail me about corrections or omissions.

Rounding the Central rings in February 2019

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

Montreal, QC	Ring 62 (20th Century Ring)	- N/A.
Hamilton, ON	Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)	- Members' Choice.
London, ON	Ring 265 (London Magician's Guild)	- TBA
Kitchener, ON	Ring 235 (The Caesar Hat & Wand Magic Circle)	- Buck Macleod Lecture.
Ottawa, ON	Ring 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)	- Literacy Magic - Charity Show:  Rehabilitation Hospital
Ottawa, ON	Ottawa / Gatineau magicians	- N/A
Toronto, ON	Ring 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)	- Jay Sankey lecture.

Please leave a comment or email me about corrections or omissions.

Rounding the Eastern rings in February 2019

With thanks to Tabraze, the current President of the Magic Circle of Saint John, for reaching out and letting us know about their club's Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/magic.circle.sj

The Magic Circle of Saint John meets every last Sunday of the month from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Saint John Art Centre located at 20 Peel Plaza, Saint John, NB.


Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

Halifax, NS	Ring 316 (Conjourer's Court)	- Visit their Facebook page.
St. John, NB	Magic Circle of St. John	- Anything goes!  (Jan. meeting tonight along with show debrief.)

Please leave a comment or email me about corrections or omissions.

Listen to Billy Kidd

Billy Kidd is featured on the first episode of Kray Mitchell's "Illusionary Podcast."  The Illusionary Podcast talks to different Canadian magicians about their careers and influences.

You can also listen to Billy with Jonah Babins and Tyler Williams on episode 81 of Discourse in Magic " Episode 81 – Busking for Magicians & Earning Your Chops with Billy Kidd" (October 19th, 2017).

Alternately have a listen to Richard Young on episode 62 of The Magician's Podcast (June 30th, 2016).

New Canadian Podcast I'm on so have a listen yo. https://t.co/DBODzOqPKu https://t.co/DBODzOqPKu

— Billy Kidd (@Billykiddshow) January 17, 2019

Broken wand: Dicky Dean

Our thoughts go out to Dicky's family and friends.


From Your Life Moments:

DEAN, Dick - “Dicky Dean the Magician” After a life adventurously lived and fulfilled, Dicky Dean passed away at the Village of Glendale Crossing L.T.C., on Tuesday, January 22, 2019. Forever loved and remembered by his wife, Marg (Randall) of 51 years. Lovingly remembered by his son, Bruce (Andrea) and his dear grandchildren, Elliot and Miles. Fondly remembered by his brother, Tom (Ruth) and their family, Rob (Melissa), Jim (Michelle), Beth (Drew). Predeceased by his parents, George and Cathie Dean. Also remembered by his students whom he inspired while teaching for the London Board of Education and the many audiences throughout Canada that he enthralled with his professional and unique magic shows.

Read more.

With thanks to Peter Mennie for letting us know.

Bullock, Mayhew, and Eng in the CBC!

From the January 23rd article "Escape the headlines, find the magic: Why we need the oldest tricks in the book more than ever" by Conor Sweetman in the CBC:

In the 1900s, the silver screen provided some distraction from the news of the World Wars, but it also served as a conduit for propaganda. These days, we similarly struggle to find escapism that isn't tinged with politics. Only now, partisan tension seems to follow us everywhere, beyond the movie theatre and into comedy clubs, sports arenas and  every content-producing corner of the internet.

It's hard to hide from it — all of our open tabs beckon us to dip one more time into what will inevitably put a damper on the day. But what if there were a way to momentarily hush the noise and avoid getting swept away by the deluge of headlines? What if, just for an evening, instead of going into a tailspin of reading, arguing and frantically fact-checking...you allowed yourself to be fooled?

Read more.

Orange County: It's Magic!

From the January 16th article, "It’s Magic! returns to cast a spell over Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts" from the Orange Country Breeze:

The award-winning It’s Magic! showcase enthralls and entrances fans at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) on Sunday, March 10, 3:00 PM. Purchase tickets, which start from $55, at the CCPA Ticket Office, cerritoscenter.com, or by calling (562) 916-8500.

The longest-running magic production in the country, IT’S MAGIC! brings to the stage the biggest stars in magic and variety. With a cast of award-winning performers from around the world – including Hollywood’s Magic Castle and Las Vegas – the extravaganza leaves audiences speechless and spellbound with sleight-of-hand illusions, stage tricks, and comedy and variety acts. The CCPA lineup features acclaimed illusionists Murray Hatfield and Teresa, quick-change artists David & Dania, satire illusionists Les Arnold & Dazzle, the duo Yonkany & Anabel, host Chris Blackmore, and comedy-magician Eric Buss.

Read more.

Outerbridge Magic tour dates

From the website of Ted Outerbridge:

• February 2, 2019   The Grand Theatre, Kingston, ON
• February 3, 2019   Flato Markham Theatre, Markham, ON
• February 12, 2019   Luseland Homecoming Hall, Luseland, SK
• February 13, 2019   Watrous Civic Centre, Watrous, SK
• February 14, 2019   Hudson Bay Allied Arts Council, Hudson Bay, SK
• February 15, 2019   CJVR Performing Arts Theatre, Melfort, SK
• February 16, 2019   Maurice Taylor Performing Arts Theatre, Tisdale, SK
• February 23, 2019   Morinville Community Cultural Centre, Morinville, AB

Read more.

Toronto: Chris Pilsworth, Jason Palter, Jonah Babins, and Ben Train

From Eventbrite:

Thu, 31 January 2019

In order to ensure every seat in the house is a good one, only 75 tickets are available for this intimate theatre experience. Make sure you order yours before they disappear forever!

Now, without further ado, let’s meet the performers.

Chris Pilsworth
Chris Pilsworth knows how to entertain. Since becoming a professional magician over 30 years ago, Chris has performed thousands of shows all over the world, including headlining at the Magic Castle in Hollywood and performing for millions of people on live TV. New York Times Best Selling Author Stephen Dubner says that "Chris Pilsworth is better than advertised: a great illusionist, yes, but with a heart and mind that match it." We couldn't agree more.


Jason Palter
Jason is a comedian, an award winning magician and one of Toronto’s top professional speakers. He has spent the last 20 years performing his original magic and illusions all over the world, including hundreds of live shows as well as numerous television and corporate video appearances. He is an "Entertainer of The Year" recipient, as presented by the Canadian Event Industry Awards, and just appeared on last month's season finale of "Penn & Teller: Fool Us". With Jason one thing is for sure - you’re going to laugh and be fooled at the same time!


Jonah Babins
Jonah is one of the founders of the Toronto Magic Company as well as the host of Discourse in Magic, the #1 rated podcasts for magicians on the planet. He has performed all over Toronto, L.A, and New York for celebrites, influencers, and private events - not to mention the 100+ show summer tour every summer. Jonah is a rising star in the world of magic and is not to be missed!


Ben Train
The host of The Art of Magic and one of the founders of the Toronto Magic Company, Ben is one of Toronto’s busiest entertainers. He has performed all over the world, including Canada, the United States, as well all across Europe, and he has a weekly show at Dave and Busters Oakville. When Ben isn’t on stage he’s busy creating magic for other magicians with 2 books and 3 DVDs of original magic for sale all over the world.

Read more and buy tickets.

From Ben Train's Facebook page:

Chris Yuill: Mandrake award recipient

Congratulations to Chris Yuill, recipient of the Mandrake award for Excellence in Showmanship and Creativity!


From Chris Yuill's Twitter feed:
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So honored to have been chosen to receive the Mandrake award for Excellence in Showmanship and Creativity at the S.A.M. Annual Banquet #royalbluemagicsuit #magic #corporatemagician #magicalentertainer #hardrockcasino #mandrake https://t.co/M2N9i1mhob pic.twitter.com/HD49FgUKH5

— Chris Yuill (@ChrisYuill1) January 18, 2019

Anastasia Synn at Blackpool

Anastasia Synn will be joining Bill Abbott at the Blackpool Convention Feb 15-17, 2019!



From Anastasia Synn's Twitter feed:
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Excited to be lecturing at the legendary Blackpool convention in February! Bringing some things to the table that you've likely never seen before...#blackpool2019 @ Blackpool https://t.co/whvrN7BM6q

— Anastasia Synn (@SiaSynn) January 11, 2019

Michael Close Webinar: The Truth about Lying

From Michael Close:

Magic depends on disseminating misinformation – in other words, lying. Learn to use this important tool with rapier-like precision in this informative and fun webinar.

Michael's live webinar will run 60-90 minutes long, you will be able to ask questions, geared for all skill levels, and you can add some tricks to your repertoire right away!

What you will learn:

• The whole truth and nothing but the truth
• Conditional (transitional) truth
• Verbal vs. non-verbal lies
• Sleight of hand as a non-verbal lie
• Sustaining a non-verbal lie
• Lies of omission
• Lying to distort memory
• Strategic placement of big lies

Read more and register.

Sign-up at MichaelClose.com to receive Michael's newsletters.  I've got it on good authority that there's an interview with Matt DiSero in the January newsletter!

Edmonton: Minerva – Queen of the Handcuffs

From Theatre Network:

Ghost Writer Theatre presents
The World Premiere of
Minerva – Queen of the Handcuffs
By Ron Pearson

No binds can hold her! No box can contain her! She can escape from anything… anything but the clutches of the master himself! Minerva – Queen of the Handcuffs is the true story of the world’s most famous female escape artist and her rivalry with Harry Houdini. This world premiere production features Edmonton’s own master escape artist, Miranda Allen.

Read more and buy tickets.

Roger Boucher in the CBC

From the January 15th article "Magician prepares for icy escape from Emma Lake in chains and handcuffs" by CBC News.

It's hard to make a polar bear plunge into a freezing Saskatchewan lake more difficult, but Prince Albert-based magician and hypnotist Roger Boucher wants to up the ante by escaping chains and handcuffs while beneath the icy waters of Emma Lake.

"It's going to be very challenging, and I like to challenge myself," he explained to CBC Saskatchewan's Afternoon Edition.

His planned escape is part of a Feb. 16 fundraiser for the Lakeland fire department. Boucher suggested the challenge as a publicity stunt. He'll jump in handcuffed past three feet of ice with a weedy lake surface below him.


Read more.

Canadians in Masters of Illusion 2019

I spy Greg Frewin, Chris Funk, The Evasons, and Murray SawChuck.  Who am I missing?

Wikipedia suggests the 2019 season is season 9, but the performers are all referring to it as season 6 as it is the 6th season with the CW.


From Greg Frewin's Instagram:

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View this post on Instagram

Just a little water escape in LA filming for mastersnof illusion season 6 #MOI #magiclife #magic #roadtrip #backstage

A post shared by Greg Frewin (@gregfrewin) on Jan 13, 2019 at 8:10pm PST

From Chris Funk's Twitter feed:

That’s a wrap! #mastersofillusion #season6 & the #christmasspecial shot and complete! Now some dinner, rest and a flight home! #lifeontheroad #thewonderist #internationalmanofwonder https://t.co/dy7dRgk64J pic.twitter.com/9VOmgaIhga

— Chris Funk (@chrisfunkmagic) January 14, 2019

From The Evason's Twitter feed:

So much fun yesterday working with many talented friends taping the upcoming season of Masters Of Illusion TV show. @cw_illusion #Magic #mentalistduo #theevasons #mentalist #mentalism #tv pic.twitter.com/98t5czOv9M

— The Evasons (@TheEvasons) January 11, 2019

From Murray SawChuck's Instagram:

View this post on Instagram

Back at #delfinostudios shooting #season6 of #mastersofillusion @thecw @chrisfunkmagic @charityfunkcoaching @jeffwess47

A post shared by Murray SawChuck (@murraysawchuck) on Jan 12, 2019 at 1:58pm PST

Guelph: Ray Chance and Mike D'Urzo

From the River Run Centre:

Saturday, February 2, 2019

Mesmerizing magicians Mike D’Urzo and Ray Chance have entertained audiences around the world with memorable mental demonstrations and incredible illusions. The pair is bringing their unique performance styles together, joining forces in a dueling magic show that’s sure to inspire awe.

“Be amazed as renowned magicians Mike D’Urzo and Ray Chance square off in a magic show designed to challenge each other and mystify audiences.” – Inside Halton


Read more and buy tickets.

Random thoughts from the Kayla Drescher lecture

I should start with congratulations to Kayla for keeping her energy up through the evening after having just completed a grueling 41 show run with the recent Champions of Magic tour!

• Hurray for Loblaws, Roots, and Canada Canadian Tire!
• And beer, ginger beer, and Brio!
• Colour changing bottle caps are very cool.
• How do you define magic, art, and craft?  (Definitely not the same way I used the term "arts and crafts" in my earlier report of the show!)
• Because ... science!
• And bar towels!
• Kayla gave Rosemary Reid a shout out for her video:
  (You may remember that Rosemary delighted us all with the first iteration of this speech which she shared at the 2017 Browser's Bash.)

• Chris Westfall made a memorable entrance.  (How many elastic bands do you wear on your wrists?)
• There was a mini Sorcerers Safari reunion with Rosemary Reid, Lee Asher, Chris Mayhew, Chris Westfall, and Jonah Babins!  (Which made Kidlet doubly regret the decision to not attend.)

  @MagicinHeelsKD Toronto lecture with @LeeAsherMagic @chrismayhews @jonahbabins & more! pic.twitter.com/S0b08IBkes

  — Rosemary Reid (@RosemaryReid) January 8, 2019

• Staff appreciation and lessons from street performers.
• Described a fabulous pseudo-controlled study on colours that increase tips! (Also pseudo-controlled for gender with surprising results.)
• Demonstrated a fabulous tip for bar magicians to increase probability of receiving a big tip.  (I wonder how one could design a study to see if that methodology gives the same % tip increase for a man using the technique as for a woman using the technique?)
• Something spontaneously happened at the 1 hour 15 minute mark that Kayla was totally expecting.  (I'm not entirely convinced that it wasn't just a case of a poorly worded question.)
• If you aren't already, subscribe to Shezam, the feminist podcast that hopes to make itself obsolete.  The podcast has great tips and strategies for young women starting out in magic (No pockets? No problems!)  Carisa Hendrix and Kayla also share entertaining anecdotes about performing and lots of pro-tips too!
• After the break, Kayla gave a fabulous hands-on lesson for colour changing bottle caps using a technique even I can master!
• Good times, good fun, good magic.
• Thank you Kayla!

Great turnout for a great lecture at the first @IBMring17 meeting of 2019! Thank you @MagicinHeelsKD

I hope you can finally get some well deserved rest! pic.twitter.com/g7keN6Dxlk

— Canada's Magic (@canadasmagic) January 8, 2019

View this post on Instagram

The Champions of Magic did 41 shows in 17 days in Toronto this holiday season! Well done!

A post shared by @ starvoxent on Jan 6, 2019 at 6:10pm PST

Bill Abbott at the Chicago Magic Lounge and Blackpool

Catch Bill at the Chicago Magic Lounge Jan. 17-19 or at the Blackpool Convention Feb 15-17, 2019!


From Bill's Twitter feed:
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Next LIVE public appearances will be at the stunningly beautiful https://t.co/IH3rwiYJL7

I'm headlining 5 shows Jan. 17-19 and I have just been informed that the January 19th shows are already SOLD OUT! So act now to grab a seat and join me at this truly amazing venue. pic.twitter.com/DexuLP1XTz

— Bill Abbott (@billabbottlive) January 3, 2019

Having heard about the world's largest magic convention for many years - I'm excited to be a feature lecturer and performer at this years Blackpool Magic Convention!

Bringing a brand new lecture and show package to all my UK friends ;) #blackpoolmagicconvention pic.twitter.com/dERpfAPQSF

— Bill Abbott (@billabbottlive) January 10, 2019

Quebec City: Loran at the Galerie de la Capitale

From the Facebook post of Loran Magie:

-I am very pleased to announce that I will be performing on January 18-19-20 at the official opening of the New Mega Park "Steampunk Theme" at the Galerie de la Capitale in Quebec City. I will be there to presents close-up magic performances everywhere on the site. Several members of Steampunk groups from Quebec, Montreal, Beauce and Ottawa will also participate to the event with their original costumes. Set your watches for this Retro-Futuristic event !

-J’ai le grand plaisir de vous annoncer que je serai présent les 18-19-20 janvier prochain lors de l’ouverture officiel du Nouveau Méga-Parc « Thématique Steampunk » des Galerie de la Capitale à Québec. J’offrirai des performances partout sur le site en magie rapprochée. Plusieurs représentants des groupes Steampunk de Québec, Montréal, Beauce et Ottawa participeront aussi à l’événement avec leurs super costumes. Réglez vos montres pour cet événement Rétro-Futuriste !

Greg Frewin's "Imagine tour"

From Imagine Tour:

Check this page often as additional dates may be added in the coming year!

IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN SIMCOE
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2019
SIMCOE COMPOSITE SCHOOL 40 Wilson Ave, Simcoe



IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN WINDSOR
MON, FEBRUARY 11, 2019
CAPITOL THEATRE Pentastar Playhouse
121 University Ave W, Windsor



IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN BRANTFORD
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 12, 2019
BRANTFORD'S SANDERSON CENTRE 88 Dalhousie St, Brantford


IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN HAMILTON
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2019
MCINTYRE PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE Mohawk College - Fennell Campus
West 5th St & Fennell Ave, Hamilton


IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN NORTH BAY
THURSDAY MAY 9, 2019
CAPITOL CENTRE 150 Main St E, North Bay


IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN SUDBURY
FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2019
Laurentian University Fraser Auditorium
935 Ramsey Lake Rd, Sudbury


IMAGINE TOUR LIVE IN SAULT STE MARIE
SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2019
KORAH COLLEGIATE & VOCATIONAL SCHOOL 636 GOULAIS AVE, SAULT STE. MARIE

Read more and buy tickets.

From the January 3rd article "Greg Frewin brings magic show to Mohawk College in support of Diabetes Canada" by Hamilton Mountain News at The Spec:

Internationally renowned magician Greg Frewin is performing at Mohawk College Feb. 13 in support of Diabetes Canada.

The Hamilton-born entertainer is a former International Brotherhood of Magicians Grand Champion and was named 2009 Magician of the Year at the World Magic Awards.

Frewin can be seen regularly at the Greg Frewin Theatre in Niagara Falls.

Read more.

Port Alberni: Murray Hatfield and Teresa fundraiser

From Brown Paper Tickets:

FUNDRAISER - FOR ROLLIN ART CENTRE

CANADAS MASTER ILLUSIONIST
Help us to raise funds for the gardens and grounds of the Rollin Art Centre, with this Family FRIENDLY fundraiser, Jan. 12, 2019. Canadas Master Illusionists, MURRAY HATFIELD & TERESA.

They don't just do magic, they are magic! Combining breath-taking magic, interactive comedy and some of the newest, most exciting and most up-to-date stage illusions. An evening of exceptional entertainment that is completely unique and world-class.

Sat. Jan. 12, 2019 at the Capitol Theatre.

Read more and buy tickets.

From Chris Yuill's Twitter feed:

Hey Port Alberni. Murray Hatfield, illusionist and good friend is coming to perform on January 12th - to raise money for the gardens and grounds at the Rollin Art Centre. It's a show for the whole family and tickets are available at; https://t.co/koAYXmhSq1

— Chris Yuill (@ChrisYuill1) January 7, 2019

Thank you to our January 2019 friends!

Thank you to John Harrison, Richard Lyn, Joan Caesar, The Outerbridges, Ian Crawford, Owen Anderson, Ryan Pilling, and Matt DiSero for being Friends of Canada's Magic!

It's good to have friends like you.

You too can Be Our Friend for only $20 per year! 

Donations of any size are always welcome.

Thank you to our January 2019 sponsors!

Thank you to our sponsors for their generous support.

This site would not be possible without their backing.

We're grateful to have the support of:

• Clive Court - Get PR help from a Life Membership Award winner of the Canadian Public Relations Society,
• Evelyn & Phil Matlin, owners of Perfect Magic,
• Jeff Pinsky, owner of The Browser's Den of Magic,
• Michael Close, author of the new Paradigm Shift ebooks, the Workers series and others, and
• Daniel Sugar, author of Salem Burning.*

The next time you see them, let them know you saw their sponsorship here!

For more information about purchasing Sponsored Posts or about our Platinum, Gold, or Silver level sponsorships, please visit our Sponsorship page.

Or you can Be Our Friend for only $20 per year! 

Donations of any size are always welcome.

--
* This book is intended for mature audiences.

Hamilton: Two Penn & Teller Foolers!

Catch The Sentimentalists and Nicholas Wallace in Hamilton on May 11th.


From The Foolers Facebook Event:

A note to subscribers: the content of this post is embedded from another website and is not available to preview. To view the content of the post, please visit http://CanadasMagic.blogspot.com. Some of the embedded code may be visible in this notification.

Rounding the Western rings in January 2019

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

City	Club	Event(s)
Calgary, AB	Ring 66 (Calgary Magic Circle, Les Brocklesby Ring)	- N/A
Edmonton, AB	Edmonton Magic Club	- N/A
Winnipeg, MB	The Magic Club of Winnipeg	- N/A
Fraser Valley, BC	IBM Ring 387 (Fraser Valley Magic Circle, Celeste Evans Ring)	- General meeting.
Vancouver, BC	Ring 92 (Vancouver Magic Circle)	- N/A
Vancouver, BC	SAM 95  (Carl Hemeon Assembly)	- Annual banquet featuring Chris Pilsworth
Victoria, BC	Ring 183 (Victoria Magic Circle)	- Round table - Annual banquet featuring Chris Pilsworth

Please leave a comment or e-mail me about corrections or omissions.

Rounding the Central rings in January 2019

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

Montreal, QC	Ring 62 (20th Century Ring)	- TBA.
Hamilton, ON	Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)	- Java night.
London, ON	Ring 265 (London Magician's Guild)	- Round robin.
Kitchener, ON	Ring 235 (The Caesar Hat & Wand Magic Circle)	- Teach-a-trick Night.
Ottawa, ON	Ring 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)	- Perform something new to you or something you haven’t performed at the club before.
Ottawa, ON	Ottawa / Gatineau magicians	- N/A
Toronto, ON	Ring 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)	- Kayla Drescher lecture

Please leave a comment or email me about corrections or omissions.

Rounding the Eastern rings in January 2019

Does anybody have current information to share about the Magic Circle of St. John?

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

Halifax, NS	Ring 316 (Conjourer's Court)	- Visit their Facebook page.
St. John, NB	Magic Circle of St. John	- TBA

Please leave a comment or email me about corrections or omissions.

MagicTube

Canadians include Shawn Farquhar, Luc Langevin, and Shin Lim.

From MagicTube as translated through Google Translate:

Do you like magic? Looking for the video of a magician ? MagicTube gives you categorized access, by menu and keywords, to the best videos of professional magicians (conjurer, illusionist) published on the web via hosting sites such as YouTube, Dailymotion, etc ...

The site is for magic enthusiasts or anyone who wants to discover through magic videos of the best current or past numbers.

The site references more than 400 magicians' videos from 26 countries.
 
Read more. 

View untranslated site.

Toronto: Michel Huot lecture

From the Browser's Den of Magic:

Sunday, January 20, 2019

Dear Denizens,

We are so excited to start off the 2019 year with a lecture by Michel Huot.

It is not often that we have a lecturer who earns almost all of his living as a corporate magician.  Michel Huot is just that magician.  He has been a corporate magician for 24 years. Over the past 24 years he has given more then 4,000 performances!

Years and years of performing magic in the real world have fine tuned his performances to make sure that he gets repeat business...repeat business...from businesses.

He is also a top notch creator of magic including 'Priceless', 'Dirty Pool' and the soon to be released 'Socks'.  Many of his routines have also appeared in the magazines 'Genii', 'Magic', 'The Magic Menu'. Some of his creations have also appeared in the books of David Acer, John Lovick.

He has performed and lectured in Algeria, Mexico, Canada, France, Magic Circle in London, Penguin Magic.

In his lecture you will learn cool tricks with your shoe, your cellphone, plush toys, socks, cards, jacket and more. Everything Michel teaches you is magic and methods for the real world; magic, that can be done in non ideal surroundings.

Read more and buy tickets.

Toronto: Free magic club

From the Browser's Den Facebook group:

Happy 2019 to all of our WONDERFUL 'Browser's Den' magic friends/customers.

We would not be still in business if it was not for your KIND support over these past forty three years. THANK YOU!

On this Saturday, January 5 is our next Free Magic Club Meeting from 2:30pm to 5:30pm. All welcome. 

Happy New Year-The Jeff's, John Cardella, Luiz Castro & Lisa Close.

Toronto: Strange and Unusual

See Nicholas Wallace in "Strange and Unusual."


From Fringe Toronto:

Borrowing from the world of Hitchcock and the Twilight Zone, Strange & Unusual is a unique mixture of storytelling and illusions. It is an interactive exploration of how and why humans are hardwired to believe in “weird things”, a celebration of the importance of mystery. You are cordially invited to explore the world of conspiracy theories, superstition, psychics, and all things strange and unusual.

Read more.

From the Twitter feed of Chris Bruce:

If you are in Toronto from Jan 9-20 you should check this show out. I’ve seen it 3 times and loved every one. https://t.co/A00til4qUU

— Chris Bruce (@magicchrisbruce) January 2, 2019

The Evasons $100,000 Pledge

From The Evasons' Twitter feed:
A note to subscribers: the content of this post is embedded from another website and is not available to preview. To view the content of the post, please visit http://CanadasMagic.blogspot.com. Some of the embedded code may be visible in this notification.

$100,000 Pledge. #keepingitreal #oldschool #resist #mentalistduo #theevasons pic.twitter.com/kmlfhLWYBM

— The Evasons (@TheEvasons) December 28, 2018

Sleightly Sketchy: #FemaleMagician

Another in an occasional series of sleightly sketchy thoughts.