Montreal Magic Jam: Steph Lac and Derrick Chung lecture [Dec 2]

From the December 2nd Facebook event by the Montreal Magic Jam:

Hey gang,

Marc here, taking over the Montreal Magic Jam mailing list to tell you about an event you absolutely don’t want to miss.

After a bit of friendly arm-twisting, I’ve convinced my good friends Steph Lac (of Slim Card Co.) and Chung (from the legendary duo McSorley & Chung) to bring their one-of-a-kind lecture to the Montreal Magic Jam! These two are not only top-notch magicians, but they also have impeccable taste in both magic and whiskey—I can personally vouch for that! They’ve already showcased their lecture for some of the brightest minds in the U.S., and I wasn’t about to let them skip over their hometown without sharing this with us!

Here’s the scoop:
📅 When: Monday, December 2

Steph and Chung have each been doing amazing work for years, and now they’re teaming up officially for the first time. Steph will show off his skills in crafting gaffs and the underground world of card and dice manipulation—he’s even worked with legends like Sal Piacente and the late Fast Jack Farrell.
And Chung? He’s been a key player in Montreal’s magic scene for over two decades, creating some serious magic behind the scenes. His tricks have even made it into The Nacho Card Notes, which has been getting rave reviews. Between the two of them, expect some deep insights and practical tips you can put into action.

Bonjour! Hi! This lecture will be fully bilingual, with Steph presenting in French and Chung in English. Very Montreal, right?

Bonus! They’ll also have an exclusive set of lecture notes (more like a mini-book!) created by Sophie-Anne Vachon from Conundrum Magazine, available only at this event.

With two incredible lectures for the price of one, seats won’t last long! Reserve your spot now. You can easily pay via PayPal.

Can’t wait to see you there!

Marc Trudel and the Montreal Magic Jam team

 

 

 

 

Toronto: Chris Philpott lecture [Oct 17]

Tonight!

From IBM Ring 17:

Thursday October 17th
Where: Agricola Lutheran Church - 25 Old York Mills Road

Chris Philpott is creator of mentalism and magic that is used by some of the top performers in the world today including Derren Brown, Cyril Takayama, two America's Got Talent finalists and two shows for The Illusionists. 

Chris is also a screenwriter and director, having made three award-winning feature films.  He brings his skill as a writer and director to bear on his magic.

When Dan Harlan (host of the Penguin lectures) was asked “On the topic of lectures, what’s been your most memorable moment?” Dan answered, “Chris Philpott. He brought the most dramatic presentations, things where you really cared about what was going on. Really, really smart thinking.”
Chris’s effects are in the repertoire of thousands of magicians and have been translated into dozens of languages. He is best known as the creator of The 100th Monkey (“The best trick!” – Lior Manor, “A brand new principle! Chris’ routines are brilliant!” – David Penn.) The YouTube video of David and Leeman performing it on AGT has 19 million views.  Penn Gillette called his “End of my Rope” “A great trick! A great trick!”

In 2018, Chris wrote and directed an acclaimed show for Mike Elizalde ("Run, don't walk, to the Castle to see Mike Elizalde in the Close-Up Room. It’s a theatrical marvel!” - Jim Steinmeyer, Magic Castle president.  “The best event in the Close-up Gallery I've seen in 55 years!” - Joan Lawton, Magic Castle Board Member.)

Chris is also is an award-winning feature film and television writer and director.  Academy-Award nominated writer-director Ron Shelton (Bull Durham) called him “a talent of the first order.”  Chris has written for Lionsgate studios, and Syfy, TNT, IFC and CBC networks. 

Read more.

 

 

 

 

Montreal: Alyx Hilshey lecture [Nov 19]

From the Montreal Magic Jam:

Alyx Hilshey is a full time, working magician who has recently taken the magic world by storm. After 14 years of honing her chops as a street performer, she moved inside, performing at magic venues including The Chicago Magic Lounge, Philadelphia’s Smoke and Mirrors Theater, and the The Magic Castle. She was a regular guest co-star in Washington DC’s highest rated comedy show, The Magic Duel, and she appeared on Season 11 of Penn & Teller: Fool Us.

After spending two years as a resident theme park magician, she now primarily works as a family entertainer with a growing business in the corporate market. She has lectured all across the USA and this will be her debut lecture in Canada.

She will discuss street magician tactics and how they can be applied to indoor or festival/fair magic. She will also talk about misdirection techniques including using the body and the gaze. Plus she will give tips for using social media to become a better performer and to propel your career.

Read more and buy tickets.  (Early bird pricing in effect.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Toronto: Michel Huot lecture [Sep 19]

From the Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit club newsletter:

When: Thursday September 19th
Where: Agricola Lutheran Church - 25 Old York Mills Road
Admission: FREE for members and $20 for non-members

Michel Huot is a Canadian magician known for his exceptional skills in corporate magic and mentalism. Based in Montreal, Huot has made a name for himself through his innovative and entertaining performances that blend humour, psychological insight, and sleight of hand.

He has been a prominent figure in the magic community for over two decades, performing at high-profile events and creating original effects that are widely respected by fellow magicians. Michel’s original effects like Socks, Priceless, Nostalgia, Cardvertisement are enjoyed by audiences and used by magicians all over the world. His unique style and professional approach have earned him recognition in Canada and abroad.

Michel Huot will deliver a lecture to the Hat and Rabbit Club, offering an intimate opportunity to dive into his creative process and technique. The lecture will feature a blend of classic effects from his repertoire, refined over decades, alongside new material that showcases his evolving approach to magic.

Attendees can expect a hands-on experience, with Huot providing detailed explanations and step-by-step instruction on each effect, ensuring that magicians of all levels can grasp the subtleties of his work. Beyond the tricks themselves, Michel will share valuable insights into the psychology of performance, audience engagement, and the art of creating memorable magical moments.

Come and hang out with one of Canada's most respected magicians.

www.lemagiciencorporatif.com

Read more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eric Leclerc at Kidvention 2025

From the August 8th Facebook post by Eric Leclerc:

INSTRUCTOR ANNOUNCEMENT FOR KAPITAL KIDVENTION 2025!
We are so happy to introduce Eric Leclerc as one of our esteemed magic instructors for Kapital Kidvention 2025! With over 30 years of experience in performing for children and family audiences, Eric brings unparalleled expertise and a wealth of knowledge to our event. Not only will he be teaching, BUT, he will also be our Saturday night performer!

LECTURE: MASTERING AUDIENCE MANAGEMENT FOR MAGICIANS
Eric will delve into essential techniques and strategies to handle different audience types, ensuring a smooth and engaging performance. Learn how to keep every spectator engaged, increase your chances of being re-booked, and build a loyal following. This lecture is invaluable for magicians looking to elevate their career and ensure every spectator knows how to act during a show.

WHY THIS LECTURE IS ESSENTIAL FOR MAGICIANS:

1. Ensuring Audience Engagement: Learn how to keep every spectator engaged, making your performance memorable.
2. Enhancing Re-Booking Potential: Discover secrets to leave a lasting impression, increasing your chances of being re-booked.
3. Professional Growth: Gain confidence and knowledge to handle any situation, enhancing your reputation.
4. Building a Loyal Following: Create a positive and lasting connection with your audience.

EXCITING PERFORMANCE: 45-MINUTE ADULT SHOW

Leave the kids at home for this unforgettable experience! Eric Leclerc will present his electrifying 45-minute stage show, the same set he tours with all over the world. Witness as caricatures come to life, objects disappear and reappear in impossible places, and much more. Prepare for a healthy dose of laughter for your soul and mind-bending magic for your brain. Discover why this 2-time Canadian Magic Champion has starred in EIGHT of his own television shows!

Don’t miss this chance to see Eric Leclerc’s world-class magic in action—guaranteed to leave you amazed and entertained!

Join Eric Leclerc at Kapital Kidvention 2025 for an incredible learning experience and an unforgettable magic performance!

 

 

 

 

 

Toronto: 'Magic Show & Tell' at Browser's Den

From the Browser's Den of Magic:

Magic Show & Tell at Browser's Den

FREE EVENTS COMING UP!

SAVE THE DATES!
Saturday, July 20, 2pm to 3:30pm - David Barrett

Saturday, August 10, 2pm to 3:30pm  - James Alan
Saturday, August 31, 2pm to 3:30pm - Andrew Woo

Saturday, September 14, 2pm to 3:30pm  - Dr. Sammy

Saturday, October 5, 2pm to 3:30pm  - Ryan Murray
Saturday, October 26, 2pm to 3:30pm  - David Peck

Read more.

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Western rings in May 2024

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	- SYM.
Fraser Valley, BC	IBM Ring 387 (Fraser Valley Magic Circle, Celeste Evans Ring)	- Sean Taylor lecture.
Vancouver, BC	Ring 92 (Vancouver Magic Circle)	- N/A.
Vancouver, BC	SAM 95  (Carl Hemeon Assembly)	- N/A.
Victoria, BC	Ring 183 (Victoria Magic Circle)	- N/A.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Central rings in May 2024

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

 

ICYMI,

• Bill Malone will be in Montreal June 3 - 4.  Details at MontrealMagicJam.com.

Montreal, QC	Montreal Magic Jam	- Anson Chen lecture.
Montreal, QC	Ring 62 (20th Century Ring)	- N/A.
Hamilton, ON	Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)	- N/A.
Hamilton / Burlington, ON	Hamilton Burlington Magic Society	- N/A.
London, ON	Ring 265 (London Magician's Guild)	- N/A.
Kitchener, ON	Ring 235 (KW Magic Society)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ring 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ottawa / Gatineau magicians	- N/A
Toronto, ON	Ring 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)	- Social meet-up. - Alexander Marsh (UK) Mentalism lecture. - Club event TBD

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

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Eastern rings in May 2024

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	- N/A.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Toronto: Alexander Marsh lecture [May 6]

We have it on good authority that there potentially will be things for sale.  Possible things for sale include:

• Billet Masterclass (via download code)
• Art of Stagecraft (via download code)
• Penguin lecture (via download code)
  
• Forgotten Princess gimmicks (limited)
• Thy Will Be Done gimmicks (limited)
    

Budget accordingly!

 

 

From the April 25th Instagram post by the IBM Ring 17 Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit club:

Special Lecture! - Alexander Marsh

When: Monday May 6th
Where: Agricola Lutheran Church - 25 Old York Mills Road
Admission: FREE for members and $20 for non-members
 
Special Lecture!
 
Who is Alexander Marsh? Well he is the pen-name and alter-ego of Alex McAleer and he'd prefer it if you referred to him as Alexander Marsh online, or just Alex is fine too. He thanks you for your understanding.

Under his pen-name, Alexander Marsh has lectured at the prestigious Magic Circle; contributed to publications by Jerome Finley, Elliott J. Bresler, and Banachek; filmed two Penguin Live Lectures; released best-selling effects such as Forgotten Princess and Thy Will Be Done; and with The 1914 Magic released a masterclass on The Art of Stagecraft and the a 5 hour Masterclass on Billet work.

We are excited to have snagged Alex to do a lecture for us while he is in town performing at Lighthouse Artspace.

The lecture covers Mentalism for stage, parlour, close-up, and casual. Topics covered will include Billet work (peeks, predictions, more), ESP cards, an impromptu book test, Mentalism with coins and cash, and much more.

♣️♥️♠️♦️🃏 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hat & Rabbit Club, Toronto (@hatandrabbitclub)

 

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Western rings in April 2024

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	- SYM.
Fraser Valley, BC	IBM Ring 387 (Fraser Valley Magic Circle, Celeste Evans Ring)	- N/A.
Vancouver, BC	Ring 92 (Vancouver Magic Circle)	- N/A.
Vancouver, BC	SAM 95  (Carl Hemeon Assembly)	- N/A.
Victoria, BC	Ring 183 (Victoria Magic Circle)	- N/A.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Central rings in April 2024

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

 

ICYMI, 

• Alex Marsh will be lecturing in Toronto on May 6.  Details at IBMRing17.com.
  
• Bill Malone will be in Montreal June 3 - 4.  Details at MontrealMagicJam.com.

Montreal, QC	Ring 62 (20th Century Ring)	- N/A.
Hamilton, ON	Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)	- N/A.
Hamilton / Burlington, ON	Hamilton Burlington Magic Society	- N/A.
London, ON	Ring 265 (London Magician's Guild)	- Round robin.
Kitchener, ON	Ring 235 (KW Magic Society)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ring 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ottawa / Gatineau magicians	- N/A
Toronto, ON	Ring 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)	- Social meet-up. - Chris Mayhew lecture

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

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Eastern rings in April 2024

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	- N/A.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Toronto: Ken Margoe lecture [Apr 14]

Tickets at Eventbrite.

 

From the April 1st Instagram post by Ken Margoe: 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ken Margoe (@kenmargoe)

 

 

Toronto: Loran lecture [Apr 20]

From the Browser's Den of Magic Newsletter:

Accomplished magician, lecturer, and author, Quebec illusionist Loran is thrilled about sharing the secrets he has accumulated over a lifetime with you and offers a most inspiring lecture.

With over 30 years of experience, Loran has amazed thousands of spectators around the world. He has collaborated on stage and films with the Rolling Stones and AC-DC, Allan Rayman, and Jackie Chan.

Loran has presented his magic on English-language screen TV networks, CTV, CBC and City TV, as well as the national French-language networks, TVA, and Radio-Canada. His acting and consulting skills have been seen in a wide variety of Canadian and American movies, and television series, notably; Relic Hunter, The Tuxedo and Terror Train (Remake 2022).

THE LECTURE
Covering a vast array of topics on the art of illusion, Loran guarantees that no matter what your current skill level is, you will come away with knowledge that can be immediately implemented in your current presentations.

Loran presents and explains many of his original effects using various objects such as cards, spoons, scarves, and T-tip for close-up and stage magic performance. Most of the effects are commercial routines that include the complete presentation. Here are some of the effects.

•     Mirrorize” A mystifying coincidence with mirrors.
•     Unreal Silk” The scarf that penetrates matter.
•     The Nostradamus egg” Is it an egg or a prediction?
•     Card-Trap” A dangerous game with a mousetrap.

A part of the lecture is also devoted to the technical aspects of stage performance. This includes subjects like how to create a good cue sheet and technical requirement document, how to manage your music, what type of microphone and road case you may need. This segment will benefit both the seasoned professionals, as well as the novice beginner, and is indispensable if you are performing for school, on small as well as the large stage.

The knowledge that is shared with you by Loran, has been obtained over decades spent in real stage situation experience.

We look forward to seeing you all at what will be an incredible lecture!

 

From the March 12th Facebook post by the Browser's Den of Magic:

Rounding the Western rings in March 2024

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	- SYM.
Fraser Valley, BC	IBM Ring 387 (Fraser Valley Magic Circle, Celeste Evans Ring)	- Fun Night! - Improv Games and Laff-Off.
Vancouver, BC	Ring 92 (Vancouver Magic Circle)	- The Magic Festival - Children's magician of the Year competition - Annual banquet with Jay Alexander
Vancouver, BC	SAM 95  (Carl Hemeon Assembly)	- N/A.
Victoria, BC	Ring 183 (Victoria Magic Circle)	- N/A.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Central rings in March 2024

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

 

ICYMI, Bill Malone will be in Montreal June 3 - 4.  Details at MontrealMagicJam.com.

Montreal, QC	Ring 62 (20th Century Ring)	- N/A.
Hamilton, ON	Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)	- N/A.
Hamilton / Burlington, ON	Hamilton Burlington Magic Society	- N/A.
London, ON	Ring 265 (London Magician's Guild)	- Coin magic.
Kitchener, ON	Ring 235 (KW Magic Society)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ring 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ottawa / Gatineau magicians	- N/A
Toronto, ON	Ring 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)	- Social meet-up. - AGM - Pro-panel with Wij Siva, Buck Macleod, Glenn Ottaway, and Dick Joiner

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

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Eastern rings in March 2024

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	- N/A.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Mission: Sean Taylor lecture [May 19]

From the Sean Taylor FVMC Lecture Facebook event:

Sean Taylor is a magician who needs no introduction. 

He has authored 5 books for magicians, released a dozen DVDs and more than 25 effects. He’s also lectured in 7 countries and performed in 16. 

Sean’s effects are practical and commercial and used by working professionals all over the world and these are his first LIVE lectures in over 3 years. 

Lockdown has been a busy time in the Taylor house with Sean ZOOM lecturing for the Magic Circle in London, the IBM British Ring in the UK as well as other magic clubs in the USA, UK and Australia. In addition, Sean and his son Patrick have re-designed and re-shot all of his signature effects and released a bunch of new items. 

Looking Forward to the Past is a new lecture of close-up, stand-up and mentalism which spans Sean’s many interests in magic. There are some easy craft projects, some quirky
uses for things you already know and some new work on old favourites. Subtlety over sleights and effect over method.

There will be something for everyone and every performing situation! 

Sean will be bringing his unique range of products for sale after the lecture (including a new release which will be seen at these new lectures for the first time) and there will be comprehensive lecture notes with video clips available on a thumb drive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Toronto: Kendrick “Ice” McDonald Workshop [Feb 16] (and reminder of Feb 15 film screening)

Details for the film screening with ICE at the bottom of this post.

 

From the February 11th post at the Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club Facebook group:

Kendrick “Ice” McDonald Workshop
Friday February 16
Browsers Den 

Learn from a true master with a passion for perfection who has earned an international reputation for excellence.   He has done it all, illusions, trade shows, closeup.  He’s been seen on most major US networks.

Ice’s workshop will focus on trade show work, parlour, close up magic and more.  
Members $75, guests $100. To secure your spot, message Ian Crawford.

“When ICE takes center stage, he displays a patent passion for perfection.”
Lee Earle, World Class Mentalist

�“It’s not often I write reviews on magic lectures but just lately the standard has been so high that I have felt compelled to put pen to paper… Ice set the tone for the evening by stating that this was a lecture designed for magicians who are serious about their art. Which it was but put over in a fun and entertaining way. In fact it’s hard to do justice as to how good a lecture this was or be able to mention all of the subjects covered…”
UK Guild of Magicians

Read more.

 

 

From the IBM Ring 17 website:

When: Thursday February 15th
Tickets: Free for members and $10 guests
Where: Agricola Lutheran Church - 25 Old York Mills Road

In celebration of Black History Month, we proudly presents the Toronto Premiere of "The Quiet Masters - The History and Relevance of the Black Magical Artist." The director of the film, acclaimed magician Kenrick McDonald will be with us LIVE to host this exclusive event.

 Read more and buy tickets.