INTERVIEW: Magic master has trick up his sleeve

THE magic is still very much alive for one of the most familiar names in the British entertainment industry, writes Andrew Boyd.

Celebrated magician Paul Daniels is a headline act in the Best of British Variety Tour that is heading for Rhyl Pavilion, having been known to millions through The Paul Daniels Magic Show and other primetime slots.

Although performing pensioner Paul may not enjoy the same focus of attention or television exposure as at the height of his fame in the 1980s, he remains heavily active on the entertainment circuit and is relishing the opportunity to share his talents with the North Wales coastal audience.

“I’ve enjoyed performing at the Rhyl several times,” recalled Paul, 72. “I am particularly fond of the place because it was the setting for one of my best ever predictions.
“I was in the town once and we did a balloon release from a big net in a howling gale. I said the winning balloon would come from Middlesbrough and amazingly it came from a just a few miles away from there.”

Operating a busy schedule today that involves after-dinner speaking and work that takes him abroad to places including Hong Kong and Los Angeles, Paul has made sure his act still appeals to the modern audience.

“I continue to develop tricks, I am certainly not doing the same show as what I did on TV” Paul revealed, still sounding fully recognisable from his heyday. “In fact I’m just currently working on a trick now with my wife Debbie (McGee).
“It will be a case of wait and see as to what I do on the stage in Rhyl, as I’m not fully sure myself yet. But I can guarantee there will be plenty for people to enjoy.”

Although grateful for the opportunities television gave him, Paul is critical of the way the industry has gone and is not afraid to voice his concerns.

“TV executives these days are not putting the same variety of shows for people to enjoy and that is a real shame. People want to watch the professionals but they aren’t getting the same chance.
“Reality TV shows are a prime example of the problems. Magicians who go on these shows need to realise it is not just a case of doing a good trick, it is about the whole act and that is something that is often missing.”

Paul’s wife and sidekick during his television days, Debbie, will not be joining him on stage due to her radio commitments but there will be a whole host of past masters such as The Krankies, Syd Little, Dana, The Grumbleweeds and guest host Christopher Biggins heading to Rhyl with him. Paul is relishing teaming up with many of his contemporaries.