The Billet Article - Presidential

This article is taken from The Billet Issue - 428 - Nov 2007, Authored by Colin Gough

Presidential

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who entered the one trick competition and for making it a successful night. I would also like to congratulate Melvin Shalks, Steve Gore and Louise Bellerby who were voted 1st, 2nd and 3rd places by the audience. I noticed that there were three or four very competent performers who did not enter and if we arrange a similar evening next year let’s hope we achieve a 100% entry!

At Manchester Circle of Magicians Bruce Kalvr, a much respected American Magician, gave a lecture. Although he did say it was not a dealer dem, it came a very good second. I would personally have liked him to tell a few anecdotes about his grandfather who was for three years assistant to Houdini. His mother or grandmother - I am not quite sure which, danced with the Russian ballet star Rudolph N ( I can not spell his surname) but most of you will remember him. The lecture had some very good ideas, and all his routines etc. were printed in his notes for sale. There were also some separate tricks for sale. One mind reading act that fooled all of us, was the brain child of his granddad and was very easy to do when explained. We were only shown part of what could be achieved and the rest was in his separate lecture notes. To be fair he would not have had time to explain any more and I reckon that 99% of us would not have been able to absorb any more.

At Leeds Magical Association this month it was the George Powell magic / comedy competition. There were six acts from around the region, the furthest being from Hull. The winners were High Jinx and deservedly so. In second place was Rex Stott from York. Being last on in a competition is not always best - ask Stevie B.

A special mention must go to Mark Waddington, who organised a show at Skipton Theatre, all proceeds going to Manorlands Hospice. Mark had to put his own money up front. Fortunately the show was a success and £600 was donated to the hospice. Well done Mark and all the acts.

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