We are not accustomed to much snow in southern Hampshire but that is what greeted those arriving for the biennial one day convention of the Associated Wizards of the South on Sunday 6th April at its usual venue near Ashurst in the delightful New Forest, established in the 11th century as the hunting ground of William the Conqueror. Unfortunately the weather prevented one dealer from travelling and delayed the arrival of others but those who braved the elements had a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Founded in 1911and therefore shortly to celebrate its centenary, the AWS has a long history, boasting among its early members, albeit an honorary one, Harry Houdini. The late Jeffery Atkins was its President for over 20 years.

An array of top dealers from across the South opened for business at 9.00am and the convention was formally opened by current president Steve Charrett at 10.00. The rest of the morning was devoted to two star lectures by top card man Paul Gordon and all round magical entertainer Mark Worgan.

Paul, as we have come to expect, gave a polished and humorous lecture covering a wide range of card effects, some virtually self working but others requiring a good degree of skill, though all within the capabilities of the serious magician.

Mark's lecture, hilarious throughout, had plenty for both the children's entertainer and adult entertainer alike. He described in depth his approach to children's parties demonstrating how to get the maximum from the simplest of props, his balloon opener being a prime example where he pulled balloon after balloon from his pocket looking for the one the colour of a potato (there wasn't one) dropping one on the floor for a “child” to pick up after which he dropped another. This produced roars of laughter from the magicians present so I'll be finding room for it in my children's show. Mark went on to describe his experiences on the cruise ships and we were shown his trademark effect of how to make a chicken from a table napkin.

After lunch the lectures were repeated due to the relatively small capacity of the lecture rooms. To conclude the afternoon we were given the choice of attending a balloon workshop by Gerry Luff or close up demonstrations / mini lectures by David Forrest and Liam Montier.

In the balloon workshop, recognising that, for most magicians, balloons are very much a sideline, Gerry led the group as they each made six easy but varied models. At the same time, he also gave lots of good advice and useful tips on presentation.

In the other room both David and Liam showed some original effects that attracted a lot of interest judging by the visitors to their stands in the dealers' hall afterwards.

There was ample opportunity to spend some time and money with the dealers who included Big Blind Media, Wayne Dobson, Paul Gordon, Magic Attic, Magic Books by Post, Playtime Balloons, Mark Worgan and Zane.

An excellent line up was assembled for the evening gala show comprising AWS member and Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year Ben Hart, Mark Worgan, illusionist Zane and Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year Romany. A technical hitch with the sound system right at the start produced an embarrassing silence for a few moments before Mark, as compere, leapt onto the stage apron and entertained the audience with some hilarious anecdotes, so much so that several comments were made that it was worth having the hitch.

Zane was first on with his oriental act involving smoke, much noise and rapid productions of doves, silks, lanterns etc followed by a skewer through the tongue and snow storm in China. The act was well received by the audience.

Ben Hart ably demonstrated how he won the Young Magician of the Year Award with confidence and stage presence beyond his years.

Romany certainly commanded attention not only with her unbelievably high high heels and corset but also with some colourful and entertaining magic some of which involved lay members of the audience who obviously enjoyed the experience.

Zane returned to the stage to close the show with two well received illusions.

Good as all the acts were, a lot of credit must be given to Mark for the professional and entertaining way in which he compered the show. Paul Newton and David Miller also did a good job backstage to help things flow smoothly.

A capacity crowd including members of the public as well as conventioneers, had a thoroughly enjoyable evening, judging by the comments made as people were leaving.

Full marks are due to the organising committee of the AWS, Phil Wedgbrow, Geoff Gould and Alan Judd for another successful convention.

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