Aberdeen magicians' global call-out for historic magic artefacts

A group of magicians in the north east of Scotland is on the hunt for artefacts and mementos of the region's rich magic history for an upcoming exhibition.

Aberdeen Magical Society celebrates its centenary in 2026, and has issued an appeal to magicians and historians around the world who have any items linked with the area's magic heritage.

Collectors can get in touch with exhibition curators, Nicolas Maulet MMC and Dave Goulding, on mail@aberdeenmagic.com with information about props, posters, playbills and memorabilia relating to magicians from the area – as well any souvenirs from touring magic shows that have visited the Granite City.

Committee member Nicolas said: "The north east of Scotland has such an incredible magic history and, as Aberdeen Magical Society approaches its 100th anniversary, we are looking forward to pulling back the curtain on a world that is often so secretive.

"We know there are magicians and historians out there that will have some incredible materials in their collections, and we would love to hear from them so we can tell a full story about magic in Aberdeen.

"But there will also be amazing items buried in boxes in attics and garages around the north east; magic mementos that people may have inherited from family members or even forgotten that they have. Those hidden gems are perhaps the most exciting things we will uncover as we begin to piece together the exhibition."

Aberdeen city and shire have a deep history in magic, dating back to the early 19th century. John Henry Anderson, born near Torphins, went on to become a huge name in magic both in the UK and overseas.

Given the moniker 'The Great Wizard of the North' by Sir Walter Scott, his name is still revered in magic circles today, and magicians visiting the area often visit his grave in St Nicholas Kirkyard to pay their respects – including Harry Houdini in 1909, who counted Anderson as one of his greatest inspirations.

Walford Bodie, a magician who pioneered the use of electricity in magic performances, also hailed from the north east.

And more recently, double act Barry and Stuart – who met as members of Aberdeen Magical Society – took TV screens by storm with primetime series and specials on BBC One, Channel 4 and Watch.

Dave – magic historian, escapologist and the society's vice-president and secretary – added: "Aberdeen and the north east are home to many magic luminaries that are known the world over. But over the last 100 years, magic has permeated almost every facet of society here in Aberdeen, too.

"Our founder members include famed architect Tom Scott Sutherland, after whom RGU's school of architecture is named, and sweet shop empresario JW Warrender. These figures, and many that have come after them as members of Aberdeen Magical Society, are just as important as the 'big names'. Their passion for the art has allowed magic to grow and remain a strong presence in Aberdeen.

"As well as highlighting the celebrities, we want to make sure the upcoming exhibition tells the story of our society and its members, from 1926 to the present day. If anyone has any posters, programmes or other artefacts relating to the society, we would love to see them."

Aberdeen Magical Society was founded in 1926, and for almost a century has promoted the art of magic across the north east of Scotland. Membership is open to anyone aged 18+ with a genuine interest in performing or studying magic. For more information visit www.aberdeenmagic.com or follow Aberdeen Magical Society on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.