Special Features

The New Clear Magic Switchbox

This Magic switchbox was created as the result of many flaws both in the operation and appearance of many already available versions. Magic switchboxes have been available for quite some time, and are a closely guarded secret. The secret is obviously contained within the sealed wooden boxes that the other commercially available units use. I already own one of these units, and was very disappointed with it, so much so that I did not use it at all. I intended to re-use the original box until I met with a friend of mine, and took the old unit with me. I explained what I wanted to do. My friend is a designer by profession, and an accomplished electronic hobbyist, and model-maker. A couple of days later an email came through from him “I have had an idea, lets remake it in a clear case, and make it so the batteries can be removed” I said “great lets do it” I am also an electronic engineer by trade, and with our combined efforts, the fun began. Many parts were purchased, some used, some not. Many problems needed to be overcome (eg the clear box) I think it was about a year later when the working prototype was finished. More improvements were made along the way, the bulbs are colored Led’s, they are fitted to bayonet caps for ease of use. There is NO on/off switch as in some originals. It is made in a clear acrylic box. At the end of the demonstration the batteries can be removed and it still works. We plan to create further projects, some based on existing items, with improvements, and some new original magic…………..Sean

Posted by Colin on February 23, 2010

The Southern Sorcerers Show 2008

Here are some of the highlights from this years show which raised over £500 for Children in Need.

The Page-Mason Dancers

The Page-Mason Dancers

Colin Hoult and the classic "Salt Trick"

Colin Hoult and the classic Salt trick

Airgon tries to learn a new trick

Airgon tries to learn a new trick

Mutley with his Music and Magic

Mutley with his Music and Magic

Chris Davison with his fantastic magic for the kids

Chris Davison with his fantastic magic for the kids

The comedy and juggling talents of Michael Pearce

The comedy and juggling talents of Michael Pearce

Cuba’s second biggest export (after the cigars) Manuel Martinez

Cuba’s second biggest export (after the cigars) Manuel Martinez

Airgon has trouble on a train.

Airgon has trouble on a train.

Zaffree add a little danger to the show

Zaffree add a little danger to the show

Comedy and Magic from Allan Wright

Comedy and Magic from Allan Wright

Award winning magic from Jonathan Shotten

Award winning magic from Jonathan Shotten

Posted by Colin on November 5, 2008

Blackpool 2008

We have just returned from another fantastic weekend at the Blackpool Magicians Convention. After a very long, but thankfully uneventful drive (thanks Sean) we joined about 2000 other magicians eager to see some of the world’s best magic acts at the world’s biggest magic convention.

The Southern Sorcerers The Southern Sorcerers at Blackpool 2008

During the day there were competitions, lectures and shows to see and over 100 magic dealers eager to take all our money, which as usual, they did very successfully.

The Many Dealers Stands Shoot Ogawa lectures

Airgon and Allan both got involved in the close-up magic sessions.  Here they are assisting David Stone and J.J.Sanvert, two amazing magians from France.

David Stone J.J. Sanvert

Airgon (our newly elected President) told us of his new healthy living lifestyle change although there was little evidence of at meal times (don’t tell his wife – oops!!!).

Healthy Living? Healthy Living?

Allan (Kipper) Wright managed to stay awake for at least 2 lectures and most of the Gala show this year.  Well done Allan.  Here he is with Airgon showing off their new suits (they actually paid money for these).

New Suits

After the evening shows we returned to our hotel where we had the chance to meet up with old friends and show off our latest magic tricks until the early hours of the morning.

Professor Dad on the Road A Late Night Session

And finally, meet the two newest members of the Southern Sorcerers, who joined the group while we were in Blackpool.

New Members

Posted by Colin on February 26, 2008

Blackpool 2007

The Southern Sorcerers at BlackpoolEvery year the Blackpool Magicians Club holds a magic convention – probably the worlds biggest and best magic convention in the world.  With amazing acts from all over the world it is a chance to meet other magicians, learn a few new tricks and see some incredible magic.

The Southern Sorcerers regularly attend this event, a real highlight of the year, and this year nearly all of us were able to go.

Here are a few photos from the 2007 convention:

Back at the Hotel What Is It? New Tricks
Just Time for a Bite to Eat Forty Winks
Click on a photo to enlarge it.

Posted by Colin on February 27, 2007

A Typical Meeting

The Southern Sorcerers meet every two weeks (usually at John’s house) to discuss, perform and teach magic. The meetings are very informal as we have no rules or committee. The pictures below are from a typical meeting.

Duelling Magicians

Duelling Magicians

“Not another card trick”

Not Another Card Trick!

Planning a show.

Planning a Show

Posted by Colin on October 9, 2003

Happy 50th Birthday John

John (Airgon) celebrated his 50th birthday on Saturday 23rd January 2003. A surprise party was laid on for him at his local pub with many of his friends and family.

John cutting his cake

He thought he was going to perform some close-up magic with Ian, but when they got to the venue, nobody was there so Ian suggested they go to the pub for a drink instead and try to find out was was going on.

John's Birthday Cake

When John arrived he was shocked and surpised and for once completely speachless. 

John and Shelley

Happy Birthday John.

Posted by Colin on January 26, 2003