Showing posts with label ~Browser's Den. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ~Browser's Den. Show all posts

12 September 2025

Toronto: Browser's Den of Magic 50th anniversary party! [Nov 16]

Save the date! 

 

From the September 8th post the The Browser's Den of Magic Facebook group

Please Save the Date: SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2025
That is the date of the 50th Anniversary Party for Browser's Den of Magic!
We will be celebrating fifty years of supplying hobbyist and professional magicians in Toronto and throughout Canada.
More details will follow but for now...PLEASE SAVE THE DATE. 

 

Previously shared on Facebook on September 8th

 

 

 

 

 

08 July 2025

Update about Michael Close auction at The Browser's Den of Magic [Jul 20]

In June we mentioned that Michael Close will be auctioning some of his collection at The Browser's Den of Magic later this month.

Here are some updates from Michael's website:

This isn’t a yard sale of worn-out props and library magic books. You’ll find first editions, out-of-print gems, rare lecture notes, props, tricks, and so much more.

Highlights include:

  • Books and manuscripts you simply won’t see again.
  • High-quality props.
  • Vintage magic ephemera and hard-to-find lecture material. 

Come for the chance to own something that inspired me. Stay for the stories, magic,  and camaraderie. I hope these items bring you the same joy they brought me.

Read more.

 

To see some of the items for auction and for sale, download the PDFs from Michael's website. 

Item Type
Eugene Burger Booklet (8) Books
Genii
Wenii and Majoke
Collectible
Magazines
Box of Sponges/Ropes/20th Century Underwear Prop
More Power to You/100% Sanky/Kurtz Unexplainable Book
2-Pack Playing Card (Piff etc)
3-Pack Playing Card (Piff etc)
Cards
Cards
Mini Chop Cup Prop
Ackerman Books (4) Book
Woody Aragon Set (2)
Two Josh Jay Books (Overlap &Triptych) (2)
Book
Book
Dean's Box - Original with Accessories Prop
Escape Lot - Large Case/Mail Bag Escape + extras + books Prop
Kid Show - Change Bag/Run Rabbit Run/ What's Next
Stage Hypnosis Book
Props
Book
Magic Live Souvenir Portfolios + ONE by Stan Allen (3) +Cover mania Ca Collectibles
Joe Porper - Just in Case Ring Flight Prop
School for Scoundrels Fast and Loose/ Magnetic Shells Bundle (4)
Illustrated Story of Magic Comic
Prop
Book
MAJ Magazines Magazines
Sessions Aronson Book
Eric Sharpe Children's Book UK
Grant's Temple Stand (1960s)
Book
Prop
Fraidy Cat Rabbit (1960s) Prop
Shaken Not Stirred Trick - Chop Cup Prop
Daryl's For Your Entertainment
Farelli Card Books (3)
Book
Book
Cy Enfield Card Magic Books (3) Book
Jerry Andrus Manuscripts (6) Book
Scotty York Color Changing Knives (4+ 2 extra) Prop
Trap Door Three Book Set Book
Paul Curry Presents/Special Effects (2) Book
Magic of Ascanio Book Set (4)
Tamariz Knife set
Book
Prop
Leather Close-Up Carry Pouch Accessories
Brainstorm in the Bahamas Book
Children's Show Case Silver - 2 books + Props
Wordsmyth - Francis Menotti
Prop
Prop
Goldstein/Maven 14 Booklets Book
Shoe Trick - Size 10 (come with link to PDF trick) Prop
Murphy's Chest
Watch and Wear by Bazar de Magia
Prop
Prop
Dean Dill - The Revelation Prop
The Pro-Folio Prop
Four Steve Beam Booklets
Four Robert Neale Manuscripts
Book
Book
Four Gary Kurtz - Lecture Notes Notes
Semi-Automatic Card Tricks - Beam (3) Vols 8,9,10 Book
Joe Mogar Knife Set
Racherbaumer/Marlo Manuscripts/Magazines
Prop
Magazines
Dan Harlan - The Minotaur Complete File Magazines
Penn and Teller Book/Fool US Lanyard/Door Hanger Rio (4) Books/Collectible
Bound to Please - Aronson (Bonus Birthday Books)
The Aronson Approach/Simply Simon (2) + Bonus
Book
Book
Try the Impossible/Art Deco Book
Small Trick Grab Bag (5 Mystery Tricks) Tricks
Paul Cummins Bundle FASDIU (4)
Hollingworth Bundle (3) Quartet/Waiting for Inspo/Notes on Card Tricks
Book
Book
Scotty York Bundle (7 manuscripts + 4 knife set) Prop/Books
Trick Grab Bag #2 (Lot of Tricks
The Unexpected Card Book - Marlo/Cardician (2) Book
Bob Hummer's Collected Secrets Book
Confessions of a Psychic (2) Uriah Fuller + Bonus book Book

Title
A Magician Among the Spirits - Houdini Hardcover
The Book - Gene Anderson - Hardcover
Buffaloe'd - Jim Buffaloe Hardcover
Tasselled Rope Trick & The Ramsey Legend (Two Manuscripts) Michael Ammar Encore III Harcover
Giacomo Bertini's System for Amazement Hardcover
Essential Stewart James Hardcover + Postcard
3 Vanni Bossi Lecture Notes & The Aretalogy of Vanni Bossi Jean-Pierre Vallarino by John Lovick Hardcover
Barrie Richardson - Act Two Hardcover
Barrie Richardson - Curtain Call - Hardcover Kidshow Matters - Jim Kleefeld
Routines Matter - Trevor Lewis/Willmarth - Hardcover
Second Thoughts - Rioboo - Hardcover
Tamariz Bundle - Sonata/Pamphlet/New Mini Symbolic Method
Teaching Magic by Eugene Burger Hardcover
Andrew Wimhurst Bundle (4) Booklets
Homage to Dai Vernon by Roberto Giobbi Rafael Benetar Bundle (4)
Bob Farmer Tricks and Manuscript Bundle (10)
Dai Vernon Bundle - (4) Inner Secrets/More/Select/Cali Lecture Notes
Aaron Fisher Bundle (4)
Routined Manipulation Vol 1&2 - Lewis Ganson Steve Bedwell Lecture Notes (2)
David Paar Manuscripts (2)
Ultimate Color Separation (2) Chesbro Stewart James Pamphlets (2)
Marlo Manuscripts (7)
JK Hartman Bundle (4 Books)
Peter Duffie Bundle (7 Books/Manuscripts)
Vintage Chop Cup Circa 1965
Fast and Loose Chain and Carry Bag
School for Scoundrels Brass Shells with glass and peas School for Scoundrels GOLD Shells with glass and peas


PLUS... Playing Cards, Rope, Wallets, other magic props. Come early to see it all.

 

 

 

23 June 2025

Toronto: Michael Close is hosting a special auction [Jul 20]

For more information, visit the Browser's Den

 

From the June 19th Facebook post by the Browser's Den of Magic:

On Sunday, July 20 at 1 PM, Michael Close is hosting a special auction at Browser’s Den of Magic—and you're invited! He’s clearing out parts of his personal collection, and it’s full of rare and unique magic treasures.

Expect laughs, stories, surprises, and the chance to score some amazing finds. Whether you're a collector or just curious, it’s going to be a fun and relaxed afternoon with a bit of magic in the air. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23 April 2025

Toronto: Browser's Den magic auction [May 4]

From the Browser's Den website:

Get ready for a day packed with fun, bargains, and incredible finds at our annual Magic Auction!

This is a great opportunity to bid on magic props, books, and more at fantastic prices. Many items sell for at least half their original cost, and you may even find rare or collectible pieces.

For nearly 50 years, magicians have gathered at Browser’s Den for this event, and it’s always a fun and worthwhile experience. If you’ve never attended before, we encourage you to join us and see what bargains you can find.

Read more.


 From the March 19th Facebook post by the Browser's Den of Magic:

 

 Previously shared on Facebook March 19.

 

 

20 January 2025

Toronto: Free Mini Classes at Browser's Den of Magic [Jan 25, Feb 22]

From the December 28th post at the Browser's Den of Magic:

Love Magic? — Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just getting started—Browser’s Den of Magic has something special for you! We’re thrilled to invite you to two FREE magic classes designed for all ages 10 and up.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, January 25 at 2:00 PM and Saturday, February 22 at 2:00 PM. Both classes will be held at our new location:

2900 Steeles Ave East (Inside the Market), Markham, ON L3T 4X1

No experience? No problem. These sessions are for everyone, regardless of skill level. And the best part? No registration is required—just come and enjoy!

Class Details

Saturday, January 25, – One-Hour Class with Dr. Sammy
Topic: Magician’s Choice
This class will focus on the technique magicians call Magician's Choice, a clever method that creates the illusion of free choice. It’s a powerful tool that can elevate your magic performances.

Dr. Sammy will demonstrate how to use this technique in simple tricks and guide you through its practical applications.



Saturday, February 22, – 90-Minute Class with Andrew Woo
Topic: The Art and Evolution of Magic

Andrew Woo, a professional magician with over 30 years of experience, will take you on a magical journey through:
  • The history and evolution of magic.
  • Live demonstrations of close-up magic.
  • An insider’s perspective on the concepts and methods that showcase the skill and creativity behind the art.
  • Simple tricks and techniques, along with tips on practicing and refining your performance.
  • Real-life lessons drawn from magic, including creativity, problem-solving, and public speaking.
The session will end with a Q&A, giving attendees the chance to ask Andrew about his career, favorite tricks, and professional experiences as a magician.


Why Attend?

  • Learn New Skills: Pick up magic techniques you can use right away.
  • Be Inspired: Gain insights into the creative and practical aspects of magic.
  • Ask the Experts: Get answers to your questions from seasoned professionals.
  • Enjoy the Magic: Experience the joy of learning and seeing magic in action.

No Experience Necessary

Whether you’ve been performing for years or are simply curious about magic, these classes are designed for everyone. 

Read more.

 

 

 

 

18 October 2024

Browser's Bash 2024 photo recap

All of Chris Mayhew's excellent photos from the 2024 Browser's Bash are uploaded to Canada's Magic Facebook photo albums.

 

Thank you Chris, for capturing the day with your fantastic photography, and especially for letting us share your talents!

 

Browser's Bash 2024

📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Willkommen! Bienvenue! Welcome!

Willkommen! Bienvenue! Welcome!
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Michel Huot lecture

Michel Huot lecture
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

Morning show: Marc Trudel

Morning show: Marc Trudel
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Morning show: Marc Trudel 

 

 

Morning show: Ben Train 

 

 

Morning show: Jonah Babins 

 

 

Morning show: Anthony Lindan 

 

 

Morning show: Bill Abbott 

 

 

 

Morning show cast: Lindan, Babins, Train, Joiner, Trudel, & Abbott

Morning show cast: Lindan, Babins, Train, Joiner, Trudel, & Abbott
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Morning show: double the hugs for emcee Dick Joiner

Morning show: double the hugs for emcee Dick Joiner
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Dick Joiner emcee extraordinaire

Dick Joiner -- emcee extraordinaire
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Lunch activities 

 

 

 

Anthony Lindan lecture with an assist by Gordon Precious

Anthony Lindan lecture with an assist by Gordon Precious
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

Marc Trudel lecture 

 

 

Ian Stewart sets a new Guinness World Record 

 

 

 

Bill Abbott lecture

Bill Abbott lecture
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Bill Abbott giving thanks to Jeff Pinsky

Bill Abbott giving thanks to Jeff Pinsky
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

Afternoon show: Rob Fishbaum 

 

 

Afternoon show: Andrew Eland 

 

 

Afternoon show: Peter Mennie 

 

 

Afternoon show: Andrew Mitchell 

 

 

 

Afternoon show cast:  Mennie, Eland, Fishbaum, Mitchell, Joiner

Afternoon show cast: Mennie, Eland, Fishbaum, Mitchell, Joiner
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Andrew Woo receives IBM Award of Excellence from Joan Caesar 

 

 

Happy 100th birthday to Gordon Precious! 

 

 

 

BTS crew shenanigans

BTS crew shenanigans
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

A Magical Place: Steinberg, Hinchliffe, Pinsky, & Talbot

A Magical Place: Steinberg, Hinchliffe, Pinsky, & Talbot
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

Evening show:  Marc Trudel

 

 

 

Evening Show: Michel Huot

Evening whow: Michel Huot
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

 

Evening show: Ian Stewart

Evening show: Ian Stewart
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

Evening show: Jeff Hinchliffe

 

 

Evening show: Bill Abbott

 

 

Emcee extraordinaire Dick Joiner! 

 

 

 

Evening show: Bill Abbott

Evening show: Bill Abbott
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

Thank you to Jon Sy (Assistant Stage Manager) and Ahmed Alexander (Stage Manager) 

 

 

Thank you to the sponsors!

 

 

 

Talent (missing: Andrew Mitchell, hidden: Marc Trudel)

Talent (missing: Andrew Mitchell, hidden: Marc Trudel)
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you to the organizers: Jeff Hinchliffe, Jeff Pinsky, and John Talbot

Thank you to the organizers: Jeff Hinchliffe, Jeff Pinsky, and John Talbot
📸 : Chris Mayhew

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional thoughts:

From the July 14th Facebook reel by Bill Abbott

 

 

From the July 18 upload on the Dr. K YouTube channel:

 

 

From the July 14th Facebook post by Artemus Syman

 

 

From the July 14th Facebook post by Paul Reaume

 

 

 

From the July 14th Facebook post by Mark Wicken

 

 

 

From the July 17th Instagram reel by the Toronto Magic Company

 

 

From the July 13th Instagram post by Alexander Hobson

 

 

 

From the July 13th Facebook post by Ray Bertrand