As regular readers will know, I’ve been reviewing Magic shows for the past five years while running this site, and I’ve seen a lot of talented artists perform live over the last eight years.
While I still get to see new artists each year, I make an effort to watch my favourite artists perform whenever I can. This year, I made a promise to myself to try to see some artists who have been more difficult to see for various reasons. Artists like Marc Oberon, Matricks Illusion, Pete Firman, Hudson & Hudson, James Phelan, and more are on my list.
I skipped BMC this year, but I didn’t miss out. Instead, I bought a copy of the Richard Kaufman book “Tenyoism,” which I’ve been wanting for a while. I’m excited to see BMC again in 2025. An expensive purchase, hence missing BMC.
One of the highlights of this year was watching my friends “Magic INC” perform their first show, “Magic In Mind.” The review was very popular and attracted many readers. Magic INC consists of Ian Gamage, David Leeson, and Pete Whitmore. The success of the show led to the creation of a second show, “Their Brand New Show,” which was performed later in the year.
Shortly after the Magic INC show, I embarked on my first cruise on P&O’s Arvia ship. It was an amazing opportunity to watch many shows, including magic performances that I could review. One of the shows I attended was “Kane & Abel,” which was definitely on my list of performers to see live this year. It was very entertaining, and I had the chance to chat with the performers.
Later that month, I returned from holidays to attend my first IBM picnic. It was a fun and relaxed day event that brought together old and new friends. The agenda included lectures and shows, making it a great opportunity to learn and enjoy some entertainment.
A few highlights of the summer included an excellent lecture by Elliot Bibby and performances by Ali Cook and Hudson & Hudson. The Elliot Bibby lecture was held at the Leicester Magic Circle and was truly remarkable. Finally, I had the opportunity to see Ali Cook perform live. It was an incredible show filled with magic and illusion, all presented in a slick and fast-paced manner. Since I had interviewed Alan Hudson about five years ago for this site, it was a delight to see him and Kat perform live. Their show was not only enjoyable but also very funny.
The biggest highlight of the year was the IBM convention in Llandudno, Wales, in September. This convention offered a wide range of lectures, a gala show, and the chance to meet performers. I managed to get signed playing cards and even a signed Sooty and Sweep by Richard Cadell. Seeing Aaron Crow perform live was another highlight, and I had the opportunity to meet him and chat with him. During the same convention, I also managed to get a John Archer dollar bill.
Later that month, I finally saw Matricks Illusion perform. They were part of the Masters of Deception show, which also featured Richard Jones and Marc Oberon. While I had seen Richard perform many times, it was a pleasure to finally see Matricks.
Matricks were so impressive that I booked to see their Reimagined show a month later. Marc Oberon was also amazing, so I was able to see his lecture shortly after that.
The Autumn certainly helped me bag some of my most memorable signed collectables. I love my signed Matricks cap and theatre poster that is signed. And of course, the signed Sooty and Sweep are favourites as well.
The year concluded with a few notable achievements for me. One of them was the publication of my review of the IBM Convention Gala show in the IBM Key Ring magazine. I was quite proud of this accomplishment and hope to write for the magazine again in the future. Additionally, this website held its annual recognition awards, and all the awards were voted on by the public.
Lastly, I concluded the year with another significant interview. This time, I had the privilege of interviewing Kevin Quantum, who was incredibly generous with his time and provided insightful answers to my questions.
As we approach Christmas and the holiday season, I am eagerly looking forward to the events that await us in the coming year. I am booked already to return to BMC in 2025, and I am also excited about the upcoming IBM events. In terms of shows, I am already keeping an eye on a few things. I plan to attend Matricks again and have tickets for Pete Firman and Mr. Swallow.
Wishing you all a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Here’s to 2025 and the fifth anniversary of Magic Seats!
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