Late Night Magic

Pumping heartbeats and mouths open in astonishment, followed by hysterical laughter – it has to be another late night magic show at the Jermyn Street Theatre in Piccadilly Circus. Hair slicked back and suited up, Julian James looked every part the magician and his act confirmed it.

Opening with a story about treachery, James described how there was once a student of magic who tried to trick his teacher. Holding a toad in his cupped hands he asked his master: “Is the toad between my fingers dead or alive?” knowing that if the teacher answered ‘alive’ the pupil would crush the creature dead, and if ‘dead’ he would keep it alive….

Leaving us with this thought he started his act; guessing numbers of die in a jar, cards contained in pockets and down low-cut tops, and even a massage for an audience member to mix things up. If that doesn’t sound impressive enough, he can even guess the flavour of a sweet in your mouth.

The magician then mingled with his astounded guests, showing that participation is key to the show’s success – it’s certainly not for the shy and retiring. There was no need for Debbie McGee considering the number of ladies who were more than happy to act as assistant.

James was also joined by Michael Vincent who recently starred in ITV’s Pen & Teller’s “Fool Us” Show, with Jonathan Ross. He offered some pointers on the advantage of being a magician when coming up against muggers. Vincent took off his watch, ring and the money out of his wallet, holding them up to show what the thief had demanded. He then deposited everything into an envelope only to tear it up, revealing the ring back on his finger, the watch back on his wrist and the money still in his wallet.

Muggers beware! Magicians are not to be trifled with…

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