What’s your obsession?
‘Magic.’
What got you into it?
‘There is a cheesy phrase that magicians like to use: ‘You don’t get into magic, magic gets into you’, and I would have to agree with that. I’ve been doing it since I was eight years old and can’t remember exactly what got me into it. I remember my Dad teaching me a simple card trick, seeing Paul Daniels and David Copperfield on TV, seeing a magician at a friend’s birthday party and finding a book of tricks in my school library. I’m not sure which of these incidents sparked the interest, but I know that from the moment I impressed someone with my first trick I was hooked for life.’
How often do you do it?
‘I tend to mess about practicing and learning tricks almost every day. I don’t really perform professionally, although I have done a few children’s parties and public events. I mostly just perform for fun when I feel like it. I also try to attend magic conventions in the UK at least once a year, where I can mingle with other magicians, learn new skills and meet my heroes.’
Where do you do it?
‘Anywhere – that’s the great thing about magic. And there are tricks you can learn with nearly every item available to you. I enjoy performing on nights out with friends and have had nights in clubs and pubs where I have ended up with complete strangers crowded around me eager to see what I’m doing. The rush is great! Plus, I’ve never found a more effective way of getting free drinks than amazing people with a bit of magic.’
Is it easy to get into?
‘Very easy. Most libraries and bookshops will have beginners’ books which are normally very cheap. Also, there is a massive amount of material on the internet. Most of the big magic suppliers are on the internet and they tend to be very helpful in recommending the best stuff for you to learn.
A word of warning though – even though magic can look amazing, the secrets behind the tricks tend to be EXTREMELY boring, so prepare to be disappointed when you learn the secrets to your first few tricks. Also, it can be massively expensive, as no one out there is willing to give away their best secrets for free.’
What skills do you need?
‘Patience and dedication. It can be frustrating, especially when learning sleight of hand, as you are putting so much practice into doing things that essentially have to be invisible – but it’s worth it to see the looks on people’s faces. Also, you need confidence. You may feel nervous trying something out on someone because you think they will never be fooled. But you will be amazed at what fools people.’
Is it popular in Jersey?
‘I have no idea. I know that there are a couple of working magicians on the Island, but I honestly know no other magicians. So if there are any out there then get in touch.’
What do you like about it?
‘The look on people’s faces when you show them something that goes against everything they know. For a brief moment you can make them forget the stresses of life and feel like a child again. Also, the ability to be able to entertain at a moment’s notice and become the life and soul of any social situation. I also like the fact that it’s an unusual hobby to have. Most people will never meet a magician, or see magic close up.’
What do you need to do it?
‘You don’t really need any special equipment. There are an endless number of card tricks you can learn and you can also do tricks with coins, paper, rope, pencils and nearly any object you can think of. All you need is your hands and your imagination. Of course, there is special equipment you can buy, but you really don’t need it. People tend to be more amazed by magic done with normal, borrowed objects, rather than top hats and silk handkerchiefs.’
lKnow anyone with an offbeat passion? Put them in touch with the jepGO… team
