MAGIC STARS SET TO SHARE SECRETS AT MAJOR CONVENTION…

LEADING lights in the world of magic will be sharing some of the secrets of their success at one of the UK’s most popular events this spring.

The South Tyneside International Magic Festival will return to South Shields for the 14th time from 16-19 March 2017, offering a packed programme of lectures, masterclasses and performances aimed at magic professionals and enthusiasts, plus three public shows.

This year’s event will have a distinct American flavour, with the stars of the Our Magic documentary, created and directed by R Paul Wilson, among the headline acts.

R Paul will open the convention with a two hour masterclass on Thursday 16 March, as well as hosting a movie morning on Sunday 19 March where the film will be shown and some of the stars will be on hand for a question and answer session.

Leading the way from the USA is Canadian-born sleight of hand expert Mahdi Gilbert, one of a select few magicians to have managed to fool Penn and Teller in their Fool Us show – despite being born without hands or feet.

The New York-based artist will have a busy three days as he takes to the stage in lectures, masterclasses and a close-up session as well as wowing the public in one of the gala performances.

He will be joined by other stateside favourites including mind reader Asi Wind. Renowned as one of the world of magic’s most influential thinkers and speakers, he’s rarely seen at conventions but will make several rare appearances including a lecture, close-up workshop and a gala show appearance.

Others set to appear and share some tips of the trade include Adam Wilber, Rob Zabrecky plus Singapore's Ning Cai who will be showcasing her new act, Ning: Mind Magic Mistress.

Magician and talent booker Steve Gore is working with South Tyneside Council to organise the event, which will also include a dealer’s showcase and children’s magic show.

“There’s a definite American theme to this year’s event, but we’ve been working hard secure some of the best magicians currently on the scene, and covering a host of different disciplines,” said Steve.
“The result is a packed programme of lectures and events which will run all weekend. The convention is open to magic professionals and enthusiasts and we wanted to give delegates something very special this year.

“I believe we have secured a brilliant line up of leaders in their field who will be imparting some of their extensive knowledge with lectures, shows and special performances throughout the weekend.

“Most of the lecturers are hardly ever seen in the UK and they are a real coup for us.”

Magicians wishing to attend the convention can book their places now. Tickets cost £65 and are available by calling Karri Prinn on 0191 424 7986 or by emailing karri.prinn@southtyneside.gov.uk.