The 32nd Annual Convention of I.B.M. British Ring No.25, held in Weymouth â five days of Magic of the British Isles, Close-up with Goshman, the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield, the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy and the Gala Show.
The 32nd Annual Convention of I.B.M. British Ring No.25 takes place 25thâ29th September 1968 at the Pavilion Theatre, Weymouth, with further events at the Victoria Bars Hotel, the Pier Theatre, the Royal Hotel and the Gaumont Theatre, and with the Gloucester Hotel as Convention Headquarters, preceded by the Night Before Party in the Pavilion Ballroom on Tuesday 24th September. Under the presidency of Geoffrey Buckingham, and honoured by the presence of International President J. Ronald Haines, with the Mayor of Weymouth, Councillor Hugh McGrath, sending his welcome, the week brings together visitors from America, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Holland, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Nigeria, Sweden and the West Indies for Alan Alanâs Strait Jacket Escape from a Burning Rope, the Official Opening and Magic of the British Isles, Close-up with Goshman, the Civic Reception and Ball, the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration and the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair, Peter Warlockâs Tricks of the Twenties, the Hospitals/Homes Shows, the Ladiesâ Afternoon, the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield, the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy, lectures by Edernac, Al Goshman and Scotty Lang, the Convention Banquet and After Banquet Show âNocturnal Necromancyâ, Childrenâs Playtime, the Gala Show, the midnight Johnny Geddes Give Away Show and the Convention Service, closing on Sunday with the Installation of Harold Taylor as the new President.
Meet the performers, lecturers, hosts and special guests appearing at this convention.
President of the British Ring, who officially opens the 32nd Annual Convention in the Pavilion Theatre, chairs the Annual General Meeting, is Chairman of the Judges for the Shield Competition and proposes the toast to the Queen at the Convention Banquet, responding for the British Ring.
President-Elect of the British Ring. He introduces and compĂšres the Gala Show in the Pavilion Theatre as Master of Ceremonies, and is installed as the new President on Sunday at the Royal Hotel Ballroom.
Hon. Secretary of the British Ring and Organising Convention Secretary, Second International Vice President of the I.B.M., who organises the Gala Show and arranges the Convention programme. He also takes part in Peter Warlockâs âTricks of the Twentiesâ and brings his latest films to the Night Before Party.
Hon. Treasurer and Assistant Secretary of the British Ring, International Vice President for Britain and Registration Officer of the Convention. He appears in the Gala Show with his company in âMagic of the Mastersâ.
International President of the I.B.M., returning to Britain as International President after twenty-three years and attending the Convention with Mrs. Haines. He proposes the toast to the British Ring at the Convention Banquet and serves on the judging panel for the Shield Competition.
The Mayor of the Borough of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis, who with the Mayoress hosts the Civic Reception and Ball in the Pavilion Ballroom and responds to the toast to the Borough at the Convention Banquet.
Presents âTricks of the Twentiesâ on Thursday afternoon, takes the Chair for the lectures by Edernac, Al Goshman and Scotty Lang, and is organiser of the lectures and the Souvenir Programme.
Host of the Night Before Party in the Pavilion Ballroom on Tuesday evening â âHave a Party with Howard Petersâ. Also a member of the Conventionâs stage management team and Stage Manager for the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth & District Hospital.
Presents Alan Alanâs Strait Jacket Escape on The Quay on Wednesday at noon. Stage Manager for the Convention and for the Gala Show, Organiser of the outside attraction and Territorial Vice-President (Britain) of the I.B.M.
Organises and introduces the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield on Thursday evening and compĂšres the Hospitals/Homes Show at Radipole Court.
Director of the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair, Welfare Officer of the British Ring (with the Welfare Stand in the Pavilion Foyer) and, with Mollie Dexter, in charge of the Cocktail Party that closes the Convention. A Trustee of the Benevolent Fund.
Assistant Director of the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair and a member of the Convention Committee.
Arranges and directs the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre and acts as Returning Officer for the elections at the Annual General Meeting.
Presents and devises Childrenâs Playtime at the Gaumont Theatre on Saturday morning and organises the Hospitals/Homes Shows on Thursday afternoon.
Organises the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy on Saturday morning in the Pavilion Ballroom and takes part in Peter Warlockâs âTricks of the Twentiesâ.
Organiser of the Banquet and Close-Up events. He introduces Albert Goshman at the Close-up with Goshman sessions, performs close-up magic (with Tony Faro) at the Micro Magic Contest and takes part in âTricks of the Twentiesâ.
Past President of the British Ring. Producer and compĂšre of the After Banquet Show, âNocturnal Necromancyâ, in the Pavilion Theatre on Friday night, and proposer of the toast to the Ladies and Visitors at the Convention Banquet.
CompĂšres âMagic of the British Islesâ at the Pavilion Theatre on Wednesday afternoon, appears at the Hospitals/Homes Show at The Lawns, and with Averil Herbert is a guest artiste in âLove and Marriageâ at the midnight Johnny Geddes Give Away Show.
Musical Director for the Competition for the British Ring Shield, plays drums at the Johnny Geddes Give Away Show and takes part in âTricks of the Twentiesâ.
At the organ for the Conventionâs theatre events, including âTricks of the Twentiesâ, the After Banquet Show and the Gala Show, where he plays the Hammond Organ.
Chief Steward of the Convention and a member of the Convention Committee. Overseas visitors are asked to report to him at the Pavilion Ballroom on Wednesday at 7.45 p.m. for the formal introduction parade.
Official Interpreter to the British Ring, whose services are at the disposal of any member or visitor requiring them.
M.A., A.R.C.M., Vicar of Barnwood, Gloucester and Official Chaplain to the British Ring. Conducts the undenominational Convention Service at the Pavilion Theatre on Sunday morning, performs at the Radipole Court show and takes part in âTricks of the Twentiesâ.
Runs the Tombola Stand at the Civic Reception, with all proceeds for the Benevolent Fund.
Proposes the toast to the Borough of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis at the Convention Banquet. A Trustee of the Benevolent Fund and a member of the Committee.
Toastmaster at the Convention Banquet in the Pavilion Ballroom.
Timekeeper for the Competition for the British Ring Shield and for the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration, and a Committee member.
Stage Manager for the Competition for the British Ring Shield, and a member of the stage direction team.
Stage Manager for Childrenâs Playtime and the After Banquet Show, for the Hospitals/Homes Show for the Dorset Association for the Disabled, and a member of the stage management team.
Represents London in âMagic of the British Islesâ and auctions all unsold goods from the Welfare Stand, without reserve, at mid-day on Saturday.
Performs close-up magic (with Francis Haxton) during the Micro Magic Contest and is Stage Manager for the Hospitals/Homes Show at Radipole Court.
With Eddie Dexter, in charge of the Cocktail Party that closes the Convention on Sunday, and a member of the Ladiesâ Committee for the Ladiesâ Afternoon.
Steward in Charge for the midnight Johnny Geddes Give Away Show at the Royal Hotel Ballroom.
Direct from Hollywoodâs Magic Castle, the brilliant close-up magician Albert Goshman performs âClose-up with Goshmanâ in the Pavilion Ballroom on Wednesday and Thursday (each session restricted to 140). On Saturday he describes the methods and presentation of the effects, with an illustrated tour of the Magic Castle, by closed-circuit television.
The immaculate Parisian magician, remembered from the 1965 Llandudno Convention for âSymphony on a Single Ropeâ. He appears in the cabaret at the Civic Reception & Ball on Wednesday and presents a lecture demonstration, âPsychology and Presentation in Prestidigitationâ, on Friday afternoon.
Of Hamilton, Canada â his third visit to a British Ring Convention, following Buxton 1947 and Scarborough 1957. He lectures on âCanadian Capersâ at the Pavilion Theatre on Sunday morning, serves as a judge for the Shield Competition and responds to the toast to the Ladies and Visitors at the Convention Banquet.
The International Escapologist attempts his sensational escape from a strait jacket while suspended in mid-air from a burning rope, on The Quay, Weymouth (near the Pavilion Theatre, by courtesy of British Rail) on Wednesday at 12 noon. Presented by Paul Graham.
Famous on the music halls and at Maskelynes (1919â1924), Val A. Walker makes an open challenge to any conventioneer: ÂŁ100 to the first magician to escape from his strait jacket â or, if none succeeds, ÂŁ100 to the British Ring Benevolent Fund. Attempts may be arranged in the Theatre Foyer near the Registration Desk. He also serves as a judge for the Shield Competition.
Robert Lunn, assisted by Edna, represents the Cotswolds in âMagic of the British Islesâ and appears in the Gala Show with âDoves of Deceptionâ. Robert Lunn is also exhibiting at the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair.
Represents Scotland in âMagic of the British Islesâ and takes part in âTricks of the Twentiesâ.
Represents Wales in âMagic of the British Islesâ.
Len Gazeka â Professor Gazeka and his Magic Carpet â represents the Midlands in âMagic of the British Islesâ.
Represents Ireland in âMagic of the British Islesâ.
Appears in the cabaret at the Civic Reception & Ball.
The Weymouth Operatic Society presents âGems from My Fair Ladyâ in the cabaret at the Civic Reception & Ball.
Provide the dancing from 8.30 p.m. to 12.30 a.m. at the Civic Reception & Ball.
Display Manager of V. H. Bennett Ltd., Weymouth, who judges the Dealersâ Trophy for the most attractive stand at the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair on Wednesday at 5.00 p.m.
Presents the talk and demonstration âChristmas Arrangements and Decorationsâ at the Ladiesâ Afternoon in the Royal Hotel Ballroom on Thursday.
The Dancing Fire Eaters open each half of the Gala Show.
Making his first appearance in England, from Germany, âThe Modern Cavalier of Rosesâ appears in the Gala Show.
The Da Silva Marionettes appear in the Gala Show.
From the West Indies, Bunny Neil, âThe Story Tellerâ, appears in the Gala Show.
The Scottish Mystic Masters, holders of the British Ring Shield, appear in the Gala Show.
Making his first British appearance, from Sweden â editor of âTROKâ â the âdifferentâ manipulator appears in the Gala Show.
That International Juggler appears in the Gala Show.
The International Illusionist, Zelka, and Company close the Gala Show.
Present âA Phantasy in Featherâ in the After Banquet Show.
Dennis Patten and His Magic appear in the After Banquet Show.
Appears âin personâ in the After Banquet Show.
Soprano in the After Banquet Show.
Presents Will Ayling & Co. in âThe State â Illusion in Timeâ in the After Banquet Show, takes part in âTricks of the Twentiesâ and performs at the Pilgrim House show.
The novelty comedy juggler in the After Banquet Show.
Maurice Fogel, The Amazing Fogel, appears in the After Banquet Show.
Scotlandâs T.V. entertainer and magician presents âThe Johnny Geddes Give Away Showâ â an abbreviated version of Scotlandâs biggest and longest-running audience participation shows, with contests devised, produced and introduced by Johnny Geddes â in the Royal Hotel Ballroom at midnight and 1.15 a.m. on Saturday night/Sunday morning.
With Terry Herbert, a guest artiste in âLove and Marriage â A Saga of Married Blissâ at the Johnny Geddes Give Away Show.
Of London, offers âSpecial Novelties in Magic for Childrenâ at Childrenâs Playtime and is at the piano for the Johnny Geddes Give Away Show.
Host of Childrenâs Playtime, who introduces himself from the parted curtains, returns with novelties and gives away sweets and prizes. He also performs at the Weymouth & District Hospital show.
Of Carlisle, who gives âA Magical Partyâ at Childrenâs Playtime and also performs at the Weymouth & District Hospital show.
Dennis, the Magical Clown, from Ipswich, presents his âColourful Capers with a Box of Tricksâ at Childrenâs Playtime and performs at the Southwinds show.
Present their Living Marionette Theatre at Childrenâs Playtime and perform at the Weymouth & District Hospital show.
From Germany, the final act of Childrenâs Playtime.
Assists Charles Bowyer with prizes and the competitions at Childrenâs Playtime.
House Manager for Childrenâs Playtime and a performer at the Charlbury Lodge show.
Childrenâs House Host at Childrenâs Playtime.
The International Auguste and leader of the I.B.M. Clowns, who visit each of the Hospitals/Homes Shows and appear at Childrenâs Playtime.
Smokey (R. Townsend), the well-known circus clown, makes his first appearance for the I.B.M. at Childrenâs Playtime and performs at the Weymouth & District Hospital show.
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Tricks of the Twenties â Performer (Thu 2.30pm); Micro Magic Contest â Judge (Sat 10am).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Tricks of the Twenties â Performer (Thu 2.30pm); Overseas Visitor â Australia. Visitor from Australia. Of Ring 105, Sydney, attending with Mrs. Briton.
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Tricks of the Twenties â Performer (Thu 2.30pm); Hospitals/Homes Shows â Weymouth/Portland Branch, Dorset Association for the Disabled (Thu 4.14pm).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Tricks of the Twenties â Performer (Thu 2.30pm); Hospitals/Homes Shows â The Lawns (Thu 4.14pm).
Takes part in Peter Warlockâs âTricks of the Twentiesâ on Thursday afternoon, bringing alive the magic of the 1920s.
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Radipole Court on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Radipole Court on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Radipole Court on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Radipole Court on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Hospitals/Homes Shows â Radipole Court (Thu 4.14pm); I.B.M. Clowns â Childrenâs Playtime (Sat 10.30am).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at The Lawns on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at The Lawns on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at The Lawns on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Pilgrim House on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Hospitals/Homes Shows â Pilgrim House (Thu 4.14pm); Shield Competition â Competitor No. 12, Sheffield (Thu 8pm).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Pilgrim House on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Pilgrim House on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth & District Hospital on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth/Portland Branch, Dorset Association for the Disabled on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth/Portland Branch, Dorset Association for the Disabled on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth/Portland Branch, Dorset Association for the Disabled on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth/Portland Branch, Dorset Association for the Disabled on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Southwinds on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Southwinds on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Southwinds on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Hospitals/Homes Shows â Southwinds (Thu 4.14pm); I.B.M. Clowns â Childrenâs Playtime (Sat 10.30am).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Charlbury Lodge on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Charlbury Lodge on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Hospitals/Homes Shows â Charlbury Lodge (Thu 4.14pm); I.B.M. Clowns â Childrenâs Playtime (Sat 10.30am).
Performs in the Hospitals/Homes Show at Charlbury Lodge on Thursday afternoon (shows timed to commence at 4.14 p.m.).
CompĂšre for the Hospitals/Homes Show at The Lawns on Thursday afternoon.
CompĂšre for the Hospitals/Homes Show at Pilgrim House on Thursday afternoon.
CompĂšre for the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth/Portland Branch, Dorset Association for the Disabled on Thursday afternoon.
CompĂšre for the Hospitals/Homes Show at Weymouth & District Hospital on Thursday afternoon.
General Manager of the Weymouth Pavilion Theatre for Weymouth Corporation, who serves on the judging panel for the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield on Thursday evening.
Serves on the judging panel for the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening.
Serves on the judging panel for the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening.
Serves on the judging panel for the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening.
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 1 in the running order (Cambridge).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 2 in the running order (Worcester).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 3 in the running order (Solihull).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Shield Competition â Competitor No. 4, Woking (Thu 8pm); I.B.M. Clowns â Childrenâs Playtime (Sat 10.30am).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 5 in the running order (New Barnet).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 6 in the running order (London).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 7 in the running order (Shrewsbury).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 8 in the running order (Dorchester).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 9 in the running order (Preston).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 10 in the running order (Little Eaton).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 11 in the running order (Abingdon).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Shield Competition â Competitor No. 13, Hull (Thu 8pm); Micro Magic Contest â Competitor (Sat 10am).
Appears at the 32nd Annual Convention as follows: Shield Competition â Competitor No. 14, Dublin (Thu 8pm); Overseas Visitor â Ireland.
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 15 in the running order (Newport).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 16 in the running order (Nottingham).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 17 in the running order (Isle of Wight).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 18 in the running order (Dudley).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 19 in the running order (London).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 20 in the running order (Belfast).
Competes for the New Silver British Ring Shield at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday evening, appearing number 21 in the running order (Prudhoe-on-Tyne).
Serves on the judging panel for the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Serves on the judging panel for the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Serves on the judging panel for the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Serves on the judging panel for the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
Competes in the Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy in the Pavilion Ballroom on Saturday morning.
One of the I.B.M. Clowns, who visit each of the Hospitals/Homes Shows under Will Norman and appear at Childrenâs Playtime.
One of the I.B.M. Clowns, who visit each of the Hospitals/Homes Shows under Will Norman and appear at Childrenâs Playtime.
One of the I.B.M. Clowns, who visit each of the Hospitals/Homes Shows under Will Norman and appear at Childrenâs Playtime.
One of the I.B.M. Clowns, who visit each of the Hospitals/Homes Shows under Will Norman and appear at Childrenâs Playtime.
One of the I.B.M. Clowns, who visit each of the Hospitals/Homes Shows under Will Norman and appear at Childrenâs Playtime.
I.B.M. Territorial Representative for California, attending with Mrs. Carolyn Trask.
I.B.M. Territorial Representative (California), attending with Dr. Victor Trask.
Vice-President of the Pacific Coast Association of Magicians (P.C.A.M.), attending with Mrs. Wilkinson. Invites everyone to the PCAM Conventions in San Jose, California (July 1969) and Salt Lake City, Utah (JuneâJuly 1970).
American visitor, attending with Mrs. Kleinman.
American visitor.
American visitor, attending with Mrs. Eads.
Past International President of the I.B.M., from Vancouver, British Columbia; sends cordial greetings from Canada with Nora Poole and looks forward to the 1971 I.B.M. Convention in Vancouver.
Australian visitor.
Visitor from Austria.
Visitor from Belgium.
Visitor from Denmark.
Visitor from Denmark.
Visitor from Bulgaria; Bulgaria sends greetings to the British Ringâs thirty-second Convention.
Visitor from New Zealand.
Visitor from Holland.
Visitor from Holland.
Visitor from Holland.
Visitor from Sweden.
Visitor from the West Indies.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from Ireland.
Visitor from India.
Visitor from Nigeria.
Browse shows, lectures, competitions, workshops and social events day by day.
Explore the lectures and specialist sessions in the programme.
Psychology and Presentation in Prestidigitation · Fri 2.30pm
From France, that elegant Parisian magician Edernac presents a lecture demonstration entitled âPsychology and Presentation in Prestidigitationâ in the Pavilion Ballroom. Those who were present in 1965 at the Llandudno Convention will remember with pleasure M. Edernacâs delightful act, âSymphony on a Single Ropeâ, and will welcome this opportunity of hearing this great artiste propound his attitude to the presentation of magical effects. Chairman: Peter Warlock.
Magic · Sat 2.30pm
Al Goshman, the brilliant close-up magician from Hollywoodâs Magic Castle, describes the methods and presentation of the effects that conventioneers will have seen him perform during the close-up sessions. He has become synonymous with all that is best in the realm of table magic, and it is his blending of mystery with entertainment that makes him outstanding in his chosen field. At the close of the lecture, as an added attraction, there will be an illustrated tour through the Magic Castle. Presented through the medium of closed-circuit television, by courtesy of Messrs. Vectron-Electronics Ltd., Hythe, Southampton. Chairman: Peter Warlock.
Canadian Capers · Sun 10.45am
Once again it is the Ringâs great pleasure to welcome to a British Ring Convention a friend from Hamilton, Canada. This is the third visit of âScottyâ Lang to this country â the first was in 1947 at Buxton, the second in 1957 at Scarborough, when he added to the magical knowledge of all present with a scintillating lecture demonstration â and he presents âCanadian Capersâ in the Pavilion Theatre. Chairman: Peter Warlock.
Competition information, entry details, rules, timings and locations.
Organised and introduced by Alastair at the Pavilion Theatre. Entrants in order of appearance: 1. Malcolm Nunn (Cambridge); 2. Guy Higgins (Worcester); 3. Matheson Taylor (Solihull); 4. Tommy Talbot (Woking); 5. Annabelle (New Barnet); 6. Maire & Sandy (London); 7. Geoff Ray & Pat (Shrewsbury); 8. John Priddle (Dorchester); 9. Noel Wyton (Preston); 10. Scotty Thompson (Little Eaton); 11. Valerie (Abingdon); 12. Stuart Good (Sheffield); 13. Arthur Setterington (Hull); 14. Tony Thursby (Dublin); 15. Granville & June (Newport); 16. Dennis Gardner (Nottingham); 17. Willâum (Isle of Wight); 18. Tony Shelley & Elizabeth (Dudley); 19. Angela (London); 20. Bob Armstrong (Belfast); 21. Charlie Spratt (Prudhoe-on-Tyne). Judges: Geoffrey Buckingham (Chairman), William G. Bosworth, Percy Bee, Ronald Haines, Scotty Lang, Robert McKenzie, Val Walker and Murray. Stage Manager: Anthony List. Musical Director: Alfred Gabriel. Timekeeper: Jack Potter. Holders of the Shield: Drew Masters & Tess.
Prizes: The New Silver British Ring Shield and Cash Prize of ÂŁ10, awarded for the presentation of the most entertaining magical act and held for one year. The Conventioneersâ Trophy, for the greatest originality shown in either effect or method of presentation, held for one year. The Craig Trophy, for the best performance by a lady magician, held for one year (not to be confused with the Craig Trophy for the Dealersâ Trophy â see the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair). In addition: the Theo Speaker Cup and Cash Prize of ÂŁ5 for the runner-up, held for one year; Third Prize ÂŁ3; the Tom Harris Cup (Comedy) and Cash Prize of ÂŁ5.5.0, kindly donated by Tom Harris; and the Dittia Shield (Manipulation).
Rules: The competitions are open to all paid-up members of Ring 25, the British Ring. No bar is placed upon the number of awards that can be obtained by a successful competitor: a male winner of the British Ring Shield who presented the most entertaining and at the same time the most original act could qualify for two awards, and a lady competitor equally successful would be entitled to all three awards. The length of act should not exceed ten minutesâ playing time; a warning light is flashed at the end of nine minutes, and any competitor exceeding ten and a half minutes is automatically disqualified, the disqualification being announced from the stage immediately before the appearance of the next competitor. The judges consist of five members of the Ring, the local Entertainments Manager and the editor of the local paper (this composition may vary according to location). An Umpire, a senior official of the Ring, has complete powers to accept or reject the judgesâ decisions; if he rejects them he must place his decision and reasons before the Committee.
Instructions to the Judges: Three awards require judgment. The Shield goes to the most entertaining magical act, considered first from the point of view of general entertainment, as if seen in a concert, dinner or other show; then the entrance and exit, stage setting, condition of apparatus, dress, deportment and elocution, the nature of the tricks and the reaction of the audience (for a silent act, the effectiveness of the mime). Judges are not looking for new tricks and must not be biased by advanced technical ability that would only be apparent to a magician. The second award is for originality (newness of effect, a novel presentation employing twists on standard effects, entertainment value and an adequacy of mystery), the concern mainly of the magicians on the panel. The third award is for the best lady performer. Each judge writes down the best four acts, adding the performers entitled to the second and third awards if they do not qualify in the first four places, seals the paper in the envelope provided and hands it to the Umpire, without discussing the decision with other judges.
Important to competitors: allowing ten minutes for each turn, competitors should work out their approximate time of appearance and report to the Stage Manager half an hour before time due. When each competitor enters a green light is illuminated and timing starts; at the end of the ninth minute a buzzer sounds and the green light is changed for an amber one; at the end of the tenth minute the amber light is replaced by a red one.
Organised by Fred Lowe and held in the Pavilion Ballroom, the audience being split into a number of small groups with the competitors working from table to table. Competitors (not in order of appearance): Walter Blau, Fred Castle, Jon Gordon, Jack Griggs, Alan Holmes, Walter Lees, Peter Moreton, Bob Read, Arthur Setterington, Herbert Wilkinson. Judges: S. A. Perry, Jack Avis, T. H. Chislett, Donald Crombie, Larry Spencer. Performances of close-up magic by Francis Haxton and Tony Faro.
Open to all paid-up members of Ring 25 (The British Ring), International Brotherhood of Magicians. Awards: (a) the Zina Bennett Trophy and a silver replica valued at ÂŁ4 4s. 0d., awarded to the competitor presenting, in the opinion of the judges, the most novel magical entertaining act, and (b) a cash award of ÂŁ3 to the runner-up. The winner holds the cup for one year and receives a replica and a cash prize.
Micro Magic, for the purpose of this competition, is defined as magic generally termed âTable Magicâ. The entertainment should not include tricks suitable for platform use, and the inclusion of such tricks will mean a loss of marks; it is an entertainment intended for the most intimate audience. Card tricks of any kind are precluded from this competition. The act shall be not less than four and not more than eight minutes: a warning is given, audibly or visually, when seven minutes have elapsed, and a performer exceeding the maximum of eight minutes is disqualified when eight and a half minutes have elapsed, the disqualification being announced by the judges.
Judgesâ points: (1) the overall magical content; (2) technical ability and handling; (3) entertainment value of the tricks used; (4) originality in the trick per se or in technical ability; (5) manner of presentation; (6) whether the routine is truly Micro Magic. There shall be no more than five nor fewer than three judges, one appointed as Chairman. Each judge keeps his own record, no comparison with any other judge is allowed, and at the conclusion each judge hands his marking paper to the Chairman, from whose findings the winner and runner-up are announced.
Awarded to the dealer presenting the most attractive stand at the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair. Presented by Mystic Craig and held for one year. Historically also known as the Craig Trophy / Craig Cup. Present holder: Ken Brooke â who will win it this year? Judging takes place on Wednesday at 5.00pm; judge: Mr. W. Williams, Display Manager, V. H. Bennett Ltd., Weymouth. (Not to be confused with the Craig Trophy awarded for the best performance by a lady magician in the Shield Competition.)
Judged during Convention week; awarded for the best-presented dealer stand at the Trade Fair.
Discover the dealers, creators and magical suppliers attending the convention.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 12.12pm.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 10.40am. (Listed in the Dealersâ Demonstration as Davenport & Co.)
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 10.07am.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 11.50am.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 11.28am.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Robert Lunn also appears in âMagic of the British Islesâ and the Gala Show.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 12.01pm.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 10.51am.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 10.18am.
Exhibiting on the First Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 11.06am. (Listed in the Dealersâ Demonstration as Harry Stanleyâs Unique Studio.)
Exhibiting on the Ground Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 11.39am. Present holder of the Dealersâ Trophy.
Exhibiting on the Ground Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 9.45am.
Exhibiting on the Ground Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 9.56am.
Exhibiting on the Ground Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 11.17am. (Listed in the Trade Fair list as International Magic Co.)
Exhibiting on the Ground Floor of the Victoria Bars Hotel, Promenade. Demonstrating at the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration at the Pier Theatre on Thursday at 10.29am.
Find the buildings, halls, theatres and rooms used throughout the convention.
Weymouth
The Conventionâs main venue, Weymouth Pavilion â host to the Official Opening, Magic of the British Isles, Tricks of the Twenties, the Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield, the After Banquet Show âNocturnal Necromancyâ, the Gala Show on Saturday, the Convention Service and Scotty Langâs lecture. The Pavilion Ballroom is the setting for the Night Before Party, Close-up with Goshman, the Civic Reception & Ball, the Annual General Meeting, the Convention Banquet, the Micro Magic Contest and two of the lectures. The Registration Desks and Fixture Boards are at the Pavilion, and the Welfare Stand is in the Theatre Foyer.
Weymouth
Convention Headquarters Hotel. Convention events are announced on the fixture boards at the Registration Office at the Pavilion, with a blackboard provided for any alterations or special announcements.
Weymouth
Home of the Dealersâ Magical Trade Fair on the Promenade, between the Headquarters Hotel and the Pier Pavilion. Open all day and every day from 10 a.m. with coffees, sandwiches and light refreshments served throughout the Convention.
Weymouth
Venue for the Mammoth Dealersâ Demonstration on Thursday morning, arranged by Rex Reader.
Weymouth
Venue in the Royal Hotel Ballroom for the Ladiesâ Afternoon, the midnight âJohnny Geddes Give Away Showâ and, on Sunday, the Installation of the New President followed by the Cocktail Party.
Weymouth
Venue for Childrenâs Playtime on Saturday morning, presented and devised by Wilfred Tyler.
Weymouth
Near the Pavilion Theatre, by courtesy of British Rail â the outside attraction on Wednesday at noon, Alan Alanâs Sensational Strait Jacket Escape from a Burning Rope.
Hope Square, Weymouth
The Springfield Room at the Brewery, Hope Square, Weymouth: a cordial reception for all overseas visitors, by invitation of Devonshire Weymouth Breweries Limited, on Saturday 28th September at 11.15 a.m.
Celebrating the performers recognised through the British Ring competition programme.
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
Dealers Trophy
Micro Magic Contest for the Zina Bennett Trophy
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
Competition for the New Silver British Ring Shield
This page remains part of the permanent British Ring convention archive. Explore upcoming conventions and discover more from the history of British magic.
