Looking for a way to learn magic?
Learn Magic in Newcastle, Beginners guide
Books
There are thousands of magic books in print. They are often considered the best way to learn magic as learning from books can help you develop your own style of performance.
Downloads
A relatively new way of learning. Quality can vary massively depending on the source and content. Check out reviews closely before investing.
Shops
If you are lucky enough to have a local magic shop then this can be the best starting point. Staff are generally well informed and able to match your requirements.
Magic Clubs
Magic Clubs meet regularly and provide a brilliant resource of advice and opportunities to perform. Visiting lecturers can be a great way to see magic performed live.
Learn Magic
Do you want to learn magic in Newcastle? Magic is a fantastic hobby, but one that requires practice and some work. If you want to learn to be a magician or just learn a few tricks to show your friends there are several routes available. Almost too many routes in fact! The internet is full of websites selling magic downloads, tricks and books. How can you choose what is right for you? You don’t want to spend money and be disappointed!
Tips from a
North East Magician
Paul says: “My advice would be that if you want to learn magic you should visit your local bricks and mortar magic shop. This way you can get good face to face advice. You’ll see some magic performed and end up with something of use to you.
In the North East we are lucky enough to have an excellent shop for magicians. Magicbox used to be right in the heart of Newcastle Upon Tyne, just a stone throw from St James’ Park, but the dedicated magic shop has now moved from Leazes Park Road. The new venue is 3, Strand House Camperdown Industrial Estate, Locomotion Way, Newcastle upon Tyne NE12 5US.
I’d certainly recommend a visit. They can help if you want close-up magic, cabaret or even stage illusions.
Note: The Northumberland Street branch of Magic Box is mostly a fancy dress shop.
Learn Magic in Newcastle at a Club
As you progress you might consider attending a magic club where magicians gather. Here you can discuss magic, try out material, enter competitions and see lectures. Newcastle Magic Circle used to meet at The Copthorne Hotel (Newcastle Quayside, NE1 3RT) but have moved their base to Magicbox 3, Strand House Camperdown Industrial Estate, Locomotion Way, Newcastle upon Tyne NE12 5US. It is advisable to contact the secretary of the circle before the meeting. Make sure it is a meeting open to visitors and suitable for you.
The Northern Magic Circle is a large umbrella organisation. They have a local branch meeting on the first Wednesday of each month at the 3 Mile Inn , Gosforth, NE3 2DS.
Darlington Magic Circle meet twice a month at The Railway Institute Club (93 North Road, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 2PP), please contact the secretary if you would like to attend.
I’d advise juniors (under 16’s) looking to progress with magic to contact the wonderful Su Jayne. She runs The Neptune Magic Society which nurtures magicians of all ages. They are rightly proud to have winners of the prestigious Magic Circles Young Magician of the Year amongst its membership. Email: info@neptunemagicsociety.com .
Magic Conventions
Magicians have their own conventions. The nearest to Newcastle is South Tyneside International Magic Convention (STIMF) held each year at the Customs House and Sea Hotel in South Shields. The convention welcomes a wide range of talented magicians to perform and give lectures. There are usually at least two large theatre shows and it is excellent value for money.
For the last three years local magician Michael Murray has organised the Minds convention in Newcastle. This is a convention specifically for Mentalists. ‘Mentalist’ being a term for magicians who do mind magic such as thought reading, not just ‘crazies’. Although I haven’t attended this event it comes highly recommended. So if you want to learn magic of this type it may well be just the thing for you. Get details at MindFX.
Whatever route you choose, practice well and enjoy sharing the magic you’ve learned, but keep the secret.
Good luck with your journey in magic!”
Paul Dewhurst
8 Points that make learning magic a great hobby
1. **Personal Fulfillment**: Mastering a magic trick can be deeply satisfying and provide a sense of accomplishment, contributing to overall personal fulfillment and happiness.
2. **Creativity**: Mastering magic requires creativity in designing, refining, and presenting tricks, making it an excellent outlet for self-expression.
3. **Confidence Building**: Performing magic can significantly boost confidence, particularly in social settings, as it involves a level of showmanship and audience engagement.
4. **Problem-Solving**: Learning magic often involves understanding and solving intricate problems related to illusions and sleight of hand, providing intellectual stimulation.
5. **Cognitive Skills**: Practicing magic can enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, attention to detail, and hand-eye coordination.
6. **Cultural Impact**: Magic has a rich cultural history and learning about it can provide insight into different traditions and forms of entertainment around the world.
7. **Social Connection**: Magic can be a great icebreaker and a way to connect with others who share the interest, potentially leading to new friendships and community involvement.
8. **Entertainment**: Magic tricks offer a unique form of entertainment and can bring joy and wonder to both the performer and the audience.