Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Renowned magician Steve Della pulls back the curtain on a lifetime of performances, offering a unique glimpse into his world of magic and mentalism. In this episode you will discover how his passion ignited at just four years old and has remained robust throughout his career, even as his close-up act has stood the test of time for over two decades. Tune in to hear about his unforgettable run-in with magic legend Peter Nardi at the Blackpool Magic Convention which inspired one of his selections and explore the timeless balance between his personal creations and the work of other magic maestros.

Steve unveils the secrets behind the Night Flight deck, his brainchild that marries simplicity with a powerful punch, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Whether it's the captivating "Mind Mansion" or the ingenious “Stealth Assassin Wallet," Steve underscores the importance of reliable, audience-pleasing effects, shedding light on how these tools have become vital in his performances.

Finally, we delve into the influences that shaped Steve's career, from treasured childhood reads like Ali Bongo's Book of Magic to the practical magic of a well-stocked man bag. Hear how he transitions from traditional magic to commercial mentalism, ensuring his acts are quick, direct, and engaging. This episode promises expert insights that will inspire both budding magicians and seasoned performers alike.

Steve’s Desert Island Tricks:

1. Night Flight Deck
2. Stealth Assassin Wallet
3. Cracker Cards / Symbol
4. Will to Read
5. All About Eve
6. Right Flight Revolution
7. Predator Wallet
8. ID

Book. Ali Bongo’s Book of Magic
Item. Man Bag

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

This week we welcome MagicTV’s Matt Clewley! Matt takes us on a whimsical journey into his crazy world of magic, including anecdotes of a German-accented magician transforming a serious act into comedic brilliance with a mere suitcase of sausages. Matt's collaboration with the renowned Craig Petty and his venture into the daring “Blockhead” are just glimpses into his vibrant career.

Listeners will find themselves marooned with Matt as he showcases his ultimate magic trick lineup for a desert island escape. From the incredible Anverdi Die, which he swears by for its captivating prowess, to the stealthy Si Stebbins stack, Matt reveals his secret weapons in balancing close-up, parlour, cabaret, and stage magic. His passion for mentalism shines through as he shares how a theatrical touch can weave simple tricks into awe-inspiring stories. Matt’s account of discovering PK Touches and the art of using billets and Sharpies for branded interactions provides listeners with a fresh perspective on magic's adaptability and charm.

Matt teases upcoming conventions and collaborations that promise to push the boundaries of his journey. Through anecdotes of performing with familiar routines like Sneak Thief and the Crystal Casket, Matt highlights the joy of creating magical moments in various settings. For someone who has only been in magic for a few years, Matt’s exposure to so much magic and so many magicians mean’s he is lightyears ahead of where he should be. His enthusiasm for our art shines through in this episode and we know you are going to really enjoy this episode!

Matt’s Desert Island Tricks:

1. Anverdi Die
2. Si Stebbins Stacked Deck
3. PK Touches
4. Alexander Marsh’s Billet Peek
5. Master Prediction System
6. Imposter / Bane / Psycology
7. Sneak Thief
8. Crystal Casket

Book. 13 Steps to Mentalism
Item. Motorbike

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

What if you could blend two seemingly different passions into a harmonious career? In our latest episode, we welcome Andy Cooper, a magician and musician from Berkshire, who has done just that. Andy's journey began with a spark of inspiration from the David Nixon magic show and a cherished magic book from his childhood, leading him to rediscover his love for magic in his 60s. With the help of modern resources like YouTube and magic shops, he combines his skills in music and magic to create captivating experiences for his bandmates and audiences. Andy takes us through his transition into mentalism, revealing how his performances have evolved and how he crafts routines that connect deeply with his audience.

From the innovative Volition by Joel Dickinson to his unique take on Three-Card Monty, Andy gives us a peek into the creativity behind his magical routines. He talks about the sentimental value of his first magic book and his admiration for Mark Wilson's Complete Course in Magic, which holds a special place in his heart. Whether you're an aspiring magician or simply curious, this episode promises a magical journey filled with personal stories and practical insights from a man who has managed to unite his love for music and magic.

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Welcome to the darker side of magic with Chris Mallon, the mastermind behind Strange Stage, a company redefining the world of bizarre magic props and mentalism. Chris shares the childhood magic of Christmas mornings that sparked his journey into the realm of bizarre magic and his subsequent rise in the magic community since 2017. From the creation of the Carney Billet Box to collaborations with iconic figures like Pete Turner, Chris's work is setting new standards in magical innovation and storytelling.

In a heartwarming segment, Chris reflects on his beloved Tenyo Crystal Cleaver and Dynamic Coins, magic tricks that hold deep personal significance and have shaped his magical journey. We explore how these tricks serve as powerful tools for Chris, an self titled introvert, allowing him to break the ice and share his passion for the craft. The journey continues with the evolution of the Carney Billet Box, a hands-free mentalism marvel inspired by the Amazebox, and its impact on live performances.

Our conversation takes a thrilling turn as we traverse the dark and immersive aspects of theatrical magic, featuring captivating illusions like Keith Hart's "Slasher" and Chris’ mysterious use of darkness. Throughout, Chris emphasises the power of thoughtful scripting and emotional resonance, inviting listeners to experience the dark wonder of his magical creations.

Chris’ Desert Island Tricks:

1. Crystal Cleaver
2. Dynamic Coins
3. Amazebox
4. Jazz Mentalism
5. Rex Ignis
6. The Hidden
7. Sefalaljia
8. Slasher

Book. Notes From a Fellow Traveller
Item. Tarot Cards - Reposition-able glue

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Welcome to the island this weeks guest, Sean Andrechak, a seasoned magic hobbyist and pit boss from Oklahoma, who shares an inspiring journey from being enthralled by Doug Henning's legendary performances to working amidst the glamour of Las Vegas casinos. Sean's unique experiences in the casino industry have woven fascinating themes of cheating and gambling into his magic presentations. With stories from his visits to iconic UK magic shops like International Magic and Alakazam Magic, Sean discusses his top magic tricks, including the universally adored sponge balls, and the impressive "Kolossal Killer" by Kenton Knepper. His passion for magic shines brilliantly, as he emphasises the irreplaceable value of personal interactions and experiences in fostering camaraderie among magicians.

Beyond the tricks themselves, Sean unravels the rich tapestry of creativity and skill that characterises the art of magic. From the charming narratives of ancient gambling games to modern marvels like Liam Montier's "What Happens in Vegas?,” featuring unique decks from various casinos. He delves into the utility of crimped cards in card magic and shares his own cleverly crafted card trick that left fellow magicians astounded. This episode is a celebration of the joy magic brings to audiences of all ages and promises to enrich your magical journey with Sean's captivating stories and expert insights.

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

This week we welcome our youngest and arguably one of the most innovative guests yet, Henry Ferris! At just 15, Henry has already left an indelible mark on the magic scene with his groundbreaking trick, "Evaporate," which he shares is like carrying around a piece of CGI magic in his pocket. In this episode, Henry reveals the pivotal role his mum played in launching his career and how he’s now paying it forward by mentoring at the Young Magicians Club, sparking inspiration in fellow young magicians.

Join us as Henry unravels his desert island list and discusses the magic tricks that define his career. From crafting the visually stunning "Evaporate" to his appreciation for the simplicity of John Morton's billet peek, Henry's insights provide a fresh perspective on the art of magic. It's more than just tricks and illusions, Henry discusses his love of magic method's, revealing how simplicity and innovation can coexist in magical performance.

Henry shares fascinating insights into magic routines, from the “The Cash” by Tenyo to the innovative “Equaliser” sound illusion by Joao Miranda. We also explore the hypnotic allure of card magic, the artistry of memorised decks, and even some unique DIY magic creations. Whether you're a seasoned magician or a curious newcomer, this episode promises to charm and educate, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the magic that captures imaginations worldwide.

Henry’s Desert Island Tricks:

1. Evaporate
2. John Morton’s Billet Peek
3. The Great Escape
4. Extractor (E2)
5. Equaliser
6. STIXX
7. Imagine
8. Trojan Deck

Book. Expert at the Card Table
Item. Deodorant

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Renowned for his innovative tricks, we welcome the extraordinary Steve Rowe! Steve takes us behind the curtain of his Willy Wonka magical universe. From his unforgettable Murphy's Magic lecture to his best selling effect Lolli Hero, listeners gain exclusive insights into the mind of a magician who skilfully blends tradition with modern flair. Discover how Steve uses the fiery allure of his wallet routine to captivate audiences and express the very essence of magic.

The desert island list unfolds with a focus on the Six Card Dunbury trick by Gary Jones, a simple yet striking performance piece that captivates audiences with its interactive nature. We highlight how Steve personalises his magic and adapts tricks with different card types, making each performance a unique experience. As anticipation builds, we segue into a discussion about a clever trick perfect for couples, further showcasing the creativity and personalisation that magic demands. The episode also explores the inventive use of everyday objects, like coffee stirrers, and how they can transform into extraordinary props that connect with audiences on a personal level.

Listeners will be intrigued by our exploration of the preparation and creativity that go into magic performances, emphasising that even seemingly complex tricks are often simple to execute. We delve into the influence of cultural phenomena, like Marvel films, on magic and how these can enhance audience engagement. As Steve shares his process for preparing for gigs, we wrap up the episode by emphasising the magical impact of card reveals and the transformation of everyday items into unforgettable illusions. With a nod to magic theory and sweet surprises, this episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the artistry and creativity of magic.

Steve’s Desert Island Tricks:

1. Fire Wallet
2. Lollipop Production
3. Six Card Dunbree
4. Wishbone
5. Number 46
6. Invisible Deck
7. Extractor
8. Lolli hero

Book. Maximum entertainment
Item. Lolly

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk