Ibm Magic Convention 2024 The IBM Magic Convention 2024 is an exciting event that brings together industry professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts from all over the world. The convention is a platform for showcasing the latest advancements in the field of magic and how it intersects with technology. The convention will feature a series of talks and workshops by renowned magicians, technologists, and IBM experts. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge magical techniques, illusions, and the innovative use of technology in magic performances. The convention will also offer a platform for networking and collaboration among participants. Magicians and technologists can exchange ideas, share experiences, and form partnerships for future projects or performances.
Ibm magic convention 2024
Welcome to the British Ring website.
13 th to 15 th September 2024 Llandudno
Venue Cymru will be the main venue over the 3 days of Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The convention will be starting at around 10 am – the programme is not yet set but as anyone who has come to a previous convention knows we will bring you a fun packed and relaxed convention. We are planning for a fun event and the Ali Bongo Marathon to be held on the Thursday - no charge for this - we hope you will join us for these extra events.
I.B.M. British Ring 85th Convention 2023 Eastbourne
An overview by Fraser Stokes
The I.B.M. British Ring magic convention returned to Eastbourne on 7th - 10th September for a second year post-pandemic. A superbly sunny convention this year with a packed schedule of lectures, shows, dealers and competitions. This year the British Ring celebrated its 85th convention! A milestone achieved with Oliver Tabor (pronounced TAY-BOR) at the helm as President 2022-2023. I was excited for this year’s convention because Oliver has a unique brand of creative magic and showmanship which I expected would reflect in his chosen line-up for the convention. and it did!
Many attendees arrived the night before on Wednesday 6th to enjoy some pre-convention socialising at the ‘Stage Door’ bar. The bar, which is perfectly sandwiched between the convention centre and Devonshire Park Theatre, transforms into an unofficial meeting hub outside of the scheduled programme for the magicians to socialise, grab a drink and talk everything magic.
The convention officially opened on Thursday at the theatre. Swiftly after this Griffin and Jones took to the stage with their Fringe show ‘A Life Changing Magic Show’. Their show was packed with hilarity and high energy, this double act won the British Ring 1st place trophy the previous year and their show exemplified why!
What I enjoy about the British Ring as an organisation is that they consider their members’ and convention attendee’s experiences. All of those attending got given a free gift, a compilation book of magic tricks published in past issues of the Key Ring magazine and a unique I.B.M. branded coin. No extra fee!
The convention this year had many lectures and talks on a large variety of subjects. There is truly something for everyone: hobbyists, professionals, family entertainers, close-up workers, prop makers, show makers etc. Lectures included Chris Congreave, Brian Lead and Joy Spencer, John-Henry, Christian Grace, Griffin and Jones, Charlie Caper, David Wood, JezO, Terry Herbert, Adrien Quillien and Chris Wood.
As there were so many wonderful lectures I will just mention a few of my own highlights although all the talks and lectures were enjoyed by many. To me the overriding ethos of this year’s lectures was creative magic, show creation, make it yourself and finding your unique performance quality.
John-Henry, from Sweden, on day 1 can be described as a wonderful surprise of creative energy. He described how he designs tricks and makes the gimmicks or props himself. He said “Magicians are like cover bands” meaning that many of us do the same tricks but package them differently, his approach was fresh and pushed ideas further than many magicians would. He covered many areas in creating tricks including 3D printing, utilising a variety of materials, reels, prototyping, finding simple solutions etc. He also talked about the performance aspect saying everyone should have directors for their show and playing with your props is where discoveries are made. His lecture was sewn together with humour throughout, he is a true eccentric and he embraces it. His humour is best portrayed by these words: “Hot glue is hot, scissors are sharp. Don’t put either in your mouth and run around.” - John-Henry.
Griffin and Jones lectured on their material as a double act. They talked about their ‘5 golden rules’ for performance and how their show implements these rules. They made it clear that the ‘rules’ are their own opinion but they feel if every magician used the rules then their shows could be elevated. The rules endorsed the idea that we should always be evolving. There was a strong sense that Griffin and Jones valued the audience experience including how they are treated as volunteers. They had a clear idea of what makes a good show this includes trimming the fat from your act and making an act that suits your personality. What typically seems like a crazy slapdash performance from the pair we discovered from their lecture they are in fact very calculated and well-rehearsed. Their show as a final product is a credit to their preparation as performers.
Charlie Caper on day 3 was a lecture I think many people looked forward to. If you know his work, you know he is an act that cannot be missed. Charlie doesn’t do many conventions so having an hour of him sharing his thoughts on magic and performance was something special. He covered street shows, and his career and gave some advice on show creation. A major focus of his material is being true to your character. Being able to describe yourself in 3 words means you have defined yourself as a performer. He held similar beliefs to Griffin and Jones and said “Charm lies in the shadows of perfection”. certainly lessons for us all!
On the same day, another highlight lecture for me was JezO. He has infectious energy and enthusiasm in truckloads! Also, his set-up seems to be truckloads! JezO does not hold back on putting in the maximum effort he can for his shows. This was the main lesson to take from his lecture “To be more!” for example instead of 1 broken wand, why not use 10! instead of 1 appearing cane, why not 10! instead of your energy being at a 5, why not 10!
On the last day, we had a lecture called ‘Cocktails, Magic and Potions’ from Adrien Quillien. This for many attendees was a highlight of the convention. After seeing his show-stopping Gala performance the night before he revealed his thinking and show creation techniques in his lecture. His lecture taught us how we can add an extra flare to our magic with confetti, fire and atmosphere. Adrien has an endearing energy and a clear love for what he does. He presented his lecture in a more dramatic way than you would normally see which was very appealing to a quieter tired day 4 convention audience. Following the themes of the lectures from other days, Adrien touched upon creating props and effects, particularly focussing on cocktails. I found watching this to be quite motivating, particularly after hearing how he became a magician and won several awards in recent years. If you don’t attend the full convention you miss out on lectures like this one on the last day.
The convention caters for everyone with its selection of dealers. There was general magic, card magic, bespoke items, balloon twisting supplies and kids' magic all available to purchase.
The I.B.M. British Ring is host to some of the most prestigious magic competitions in the UK. The highest available award for stage magic and close-up magic in the UK can be won only at the British Ring. The stage competition was held on the first day. 1st place went to Daan Ho. Daan had unique and ambitious ideas layered throughout his act, using colour-changing violins, appearing feathers and a jacket that magically puts itself on the performer. He stood out as a clear 1st place winner by trying something different to what we usually see in magic acts. Whilst the judges deliberated we were entertained by the always-perfect Mark James. Mark never fails to bring the energy up in a room, a true master of variety entertainment. The Close-up competition was well attended this year. The 1st place award went to Edward Hilsum. Edward presented a flawless performance with an act that drew on feelings of nostalgia. His effect with a photograph appearing in a frame was unique following this was his beautifully elegant coin routine named ‘Silver’.
I highly encourage people to enter these competitions. It gives you a goal to work towards and helps raise our standards as performers.
The shows are the thing I love most about conventions. We learn so much just from watching other performers. The I.B.M. British Ring convention gala show was packed with variety and a high standard of magic this year. Our compère's for the evening were Keith Fields and Lady Sarah. Two very funny and engaging hosts for the night. Opening the show was Yollin Lee with his effortless-looking but highly skilled card manipulations (trust me they were not easy to do!). Coming in fast as the second act was John-Henry with his slapstick performance of magic, juggling and physical comedy. Michael Jordan was third with a flawless juggling and skills performance including plate spinning, juggling, unicycling and balances. TV Star and magician Richard Cadell closed the first half with large-scale danger escapology. The second half burst into action with Adrien Quillien from France performing his cocktail magic act. His act was an explosion of pure visual delight. Our compère's then performed a funny magic segment after Adrien. Louise Andrée from Fife followed with a variety of magic, a lovely act specifically bespoke for the British Ring. Everything in her performance was visually appealing and considered. Closing the show were the comedy illusionists Safire. Big box illusions with plenty of giggles. A fantastic evening of magic and variety.
Charlie Caper closed the convention on the 4th day with his solo fringe show. His show started from the moment you entered the theatre as he spoke to people coming in. His show was full of charm and jaw-dropping magic. Charlie is an expert in misdirection, he would continually make his bow-tie disappear and reappear throughout the show. In the middle, he performed a routine with a robot he had made himself. The entire show was magical, wrapped in mystery and engaging. I still don’t know where the bow-tie went!
The convention closing ceremony began after Charlie’s show with some words from the president Oliver Tabor. Oliver said, “The convention was an amazing time, thanks to everyone for coming and he appreciates every one of the members for their support”.The chain of office was handed over to Philip Partridge who is now the president for 2023 – 2024. In his closing words about this year's convention, he expressed how much he enjoys attending. He is keen for more people to come along and get the chance to enjoy the yearly convention he said “Next year, bring a friend!”.
A glue that holds the British Ring convention together is Moira Fletcher. Without Moira, the convention would not have the amazing content that it does. She strives to make every year a special one. I spoke to her and asked if she had anything she would like to share with me for this article, she said simply “Your support helps the convention grow, if you didn’t come you have missed out”. I agree, if you didn’t go you have missed out.
What I love about the British Ring convention is that it isn’t overwhelming like some of the largest conventions but it is by no means small either. You can see world-class shows and lectures and not miss a thing due to overlaps in schedule. I believe you get so much more than the value of your entry fee. Conventions only get better with attendance, I encourage you to go because you will absolutely get something from it. I take that weekend off every year and I am willing to travel over 9 hours to do so. Don’t miss out.
© Fraser Stokes, September 2023
What are the type of Magic conventions in 2023-2024?
Every year magicians and fans of magic from local cities and from all world the world meet in a magical place to assist to A Magic Convention. Some of the galas and shows are open to the public and magic lovers from all walks of life. So many people flock to these conventions – from professional magicians to amateur magicians, to magic-lovers and the curious who never miss a chance to see a great magic show. Most of the people who attend, though, usually are club members or non-member magicians.
List your convention, lecture or event for FREE. To have your convention or magic event listed submit your event here.
Magic Convention January 2023
London January 13th. Magic Convention.
The Session at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre London Heathrow.
Magic Convention February 2023
Magic Convention March 2023
Magic Convention April 2023
Collinsville, IL. April 20-23. Close-up Magic Convention.
Baskerville Productions at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Collinsville - St. Louis.
Batavia, NY. April 30th. Magic Convention.
MAWNY at the Quality Inn & Suites Palm Island Indoor Waterpark.
Magic Convention May 2023
Urbandale, IA. May 19th - 21st. Magic Convention.
AbraCORNdabra at the Holiday Inn & Suites Des Moines-Northwest, an IHG Hotel.
Magic Convention June 2023
Magic Convention July 2023
Pittsburgh, PA. July 12-15. Magic Convention.
I.B.M. International Brotherhood at the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown.
New Orleans, LA. July 23-26. Magic Convention.
S.A.M. The Society of American Magicians at the Harrah's New Orleans.
Magic Convention August 2023
Magic Convention September 2023
Magic Convention October 2023
Magic Convention November 2023
Ibm magic convention 2024
The International Brotherhood of Magicians conducts annual contests in Close-up Magic and Stage Magic. These high-profile events attract contestants from every corner of the globe.
The I.B.M.’s “Gold Medal International Award of Excellence in Stage Performance” and “Gold Cups International Award of Excellence in Close-up Performance” are the pinnacles of achievement in the world of magic, and they are not conferred every year. Since these awards first began in 1980, there have been only seven recipients of The Gold Cups and only eight recipients of The Gold Medal. Each of these honors is accompanied by $5,000 in U.S. currency.
Since 2013, the Youth category awards in Stage and Close-up have been supported by the I.B.M. Endowment and Development Fund to encourage participation by our Youth in magic. The most outstanding Youth Member (age 7 through 17) in the Stage performance category will receive a special prize package from Fantasma Magic.
For complete information on award categories and prizes, visit the Contest area at www.magician.org.
Past Recipients in Youth and Adult Stage Magic
YEARDIV. WINNER
1980 Jr William Cumming
Gold MedalLance Burton
1981 Jr Not awarded
1982 Jr Levent Cimkentli
Sr Bobby Cordell
1983 Jr Ken Domash
Sr Kazuma Sakamoto
1984 Jr Ken Domash
Sr Nowlin Craver/
1985 Jr Steve Wyrick
Gold MedalSrHoward Hale
1986 Jr Not awarded
Sr Yuji Yamamoto
1987 Jr Joe Hindman
Sr Scott Fillers
1988 JrNathan Burton
Sr Brett Daniels
Gold Medal Sr James Cielen
1989 Jr Nolan Haimes
Sr Christopher Broughton
1990 Jr Nathan Burton
Gold MedalSrFanny Tjin (Jade)
1991 JrNot awarded
1992 JrNot awarded
Sr Juliana Chen
1993 JrTamara Tsitalashvilli
Gold MedalSrGreg Frewin
1994 Jr Jason Ace
Sr Vladimar and
1995 Jr Ashley Springer
1996 Jr Justin Willman
Sr Jonathon (David) Bass
1997 Jr Dallas Fueston
Sr Cuiffo and Hughes
YEARDIV.WINNER
1998 Jr Ashley Springer
Sr Shawn Farquhar
1999 Jr Joel Ward
Gold MedalSrGeorge Saterial
2000 Jr Kristoffer and
Sr Jay Mattioli
2001 Jr Jessica Reed
Sr Richard Forget
2002 Jr Michael Barron
Gold MedalSrKeiko Muto
2003 Jr Matthew Stanley
Sr Mirko Callaci
2004 Y Dakota Rose
2005 Y Farrah Siegel
Gold MedalSrArthur Trace
2006 Y Eli Portala
Sr Koyko Maebeya
2007 Y Sterling Dietz
2009 YDavid Mlakar
2010 Jr Yang Yang
Sr Jason Andrews
2011 Y Reuben Moreland
2012 Y Sebastian Zarza Guarano
A Jean Paul Ohlaberry
2013 Y Eli Portala
2014 Y Not Awarded
2015 YDaniel Hernandez
2016 Y Not awarded
2017 Y Not awarded
2018 A Red Star Seong
Gold MedalAZhou-Zhou & Yuanyuan
Past Recipients in Youth and Adult Close-up Magic
YEARDIV.WINNER
1980 Jr Elliot Blatt
1981 Jr Elliot Blatt
Gold CupsSr David Williamson
1982 Jr Devin Lushbaugh
Sr Johnny Ace Palmer
1983 Jr No entrants
Gold CupsSrJohnny Ace Palmer
1984 Jr Bobby Lilly
1985 Jr Ricky Kalmont
Sr Dorian Jones
1986 Jrnot awarded
Sr Charles Greene/
1987 Jr Steve Cohen
Gold CupsSrJoe Given
1988 Jr Mark Sisher
1989 Jr Leah Feldman
1990 Jr Jeffrey Booker
1991 Jr Lee Asher
Gold CupsSrGiovanni Livera
1992 Jr Lee Asher
Sr Claude Cloutier
1993 Jr Cory Brager
Sr Steve Fearson
1994 Jr Ali Shelly
Gold CupsSrSteve Bedwell
1995 Jr Thomas Mier
1996 Jr Dan Rodrique
Sr Marc DeSousa
1997 Jr Todd Gaines
YEARDIV.WINNER
1998 Jr Matthew Jarman/
1999 Jr Danny Hill
Gold CupsSrOscar Munoz
2000 Jr Winston Helling
Sr Stephen Bargatze
2001 Jr Winston Helling
Sr Shawn Farquhar
2002 Jr Danny Hill
2003 Sr Patrick Przysiecki
Gold CupsJrChase Curtis
Magicians and technologists can exchange ideas, share experiences, and form partnerships for future projects or performances. One of the highlights of the convention will be the IBM Magic Competition, where participants from different countries will showcase their magical skills and compete for prestigious awards. This competition will not only showcase the talent of the performers but also the collaboration between magicians and technologists in creating mind-blowing illusions.
In addition to the talks and competitions, the convention will also include interactive demonstrations and exhibitions. Participants will have the chance to experience firsthand some of the latest magic tricks and technologies developed by IBM and its partners. The IBM Magic Convention 2024 aims to push the boundaries of magic by exploring the integration of technology and innovation. It is a unique platform for magicians, technologists, and enthusiasts to come together and explore new possibilities in the world of magic. Whether you're a professional magician, a technology enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the world of magic, the IBM Magic Convention 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience..
Reviews for "Breaking Barriers: IBM Magic Convention 2024 Explores New Possibilities"
1. John Smith - 2/5 - I was incredibly disappointed with the IBM Magic Convention 2024. The event promised mind-blowing magic acts and cutting-edge technology, but it fell short on both counts. The performances lacked creativity and failed to impress. Additionally, the technological aspects were underwhelming, with outdated gadgets and no innovative solutions showcased. Overall, the convention felt uninspired and did not live up to the hype.
2. Jessica Thompson - 1/5 - Attending the IBM Magic Convention 2024 was a complete waste of my time and money. The organization of the event was chaotic, and it seemed like nobody knew what they were doing. The performances were lackluster, and there was a notable lack of variety in the acts. The convention felt more like a cheap magic show rather than a prestigious event. I would definitely not recommend it to others looking for an exciting and memorable magic experience.
3. Michael Turner - 2/5 - As an avid fan of magic, I had high expectations for the IBM Magic Convention 2024. Unfortunately, those expectations were not met. The performances lacked originality and failed to capture my interest. The event lacked proper organization, and there were long waiting times between acts. The overall atmosphere was underwhelming, and I left feeling disappointed. I hope that future IBM magic conventions will take the feedback into account and work towards delivering a more captivating and enchanting experience.
4. Sarah Davis - 2/5 - The IBM Magic Convention 2024 was a letdown. The acts performed were predictable and lacked the wow factor I was hoping for. The event felt like it was trying too hard to be innovative, but failed to deliver on that front. The lack of diversity in the lineup was also disappointing, with similar acts being repeated throughout the convention. Overall, I left feeling unimpressed and wishing I had spent my time and money elsewhere.
5. David Roberts - 3/5 - While the IBM Magic Convention 2024 had its flaws, it wasn't a complete disaster. The performances had their moments of intrigue and wonder, but they were few and far between. There were some technological advancements showcased, but they didn't live up to the hype surrounding them. The convention could benefit from better organization and more variety in the acts. With improvements, this event could potentially become a more enjoyable experience for magic enthusiasts.