St Albans Magician at Harry Potter Launch

Waterstones with St Albans Magician

I was asked to perform as a St Albans magician at the local Waterstones situated on the high street in this beautiful Hertfordshire city. Normally the shop would be closed but on this day it was open late and could only be entered by invitations which were made well in advance.

Due to the interest in the new book, it was a sell-out with people queuing on the road outside.

When I arrived the building was full of very enthusiastic teenagers. Indeed, many parents also had a great interest in magic. The shop did not reveal the book until late evening. A table stood to my right, covered with a blanket, beneath it copies of the new book.

Staff had laid puzzles and adventures on every floor, all related to Harry Potter and his friends and enemies.

I watched eager children with paper in hand exploring the bookcases and racks looking for clues. The staff at Waterstones had certainly put a lot of effort into it and the children loved it.

St Albans Magician on Stage

At the front of the store, there was a small stage. The organisers asked me to perform a thirty-minute cabaret for all the guests. Although the audience was standing it proved very successful. Many children were keen to help and it was a great atmosphere for such a magic show.

Harry Potter has had an incredible impact on magic and its popularity. It creates such an interest for the young. Indeed, there is certainly more magic on television and more kids becoming hobbyists or even professionals than a decade ago.

Once the show was over, I spent time performing close up magic. In fact, many stayed and watched children perform their own tricks. By the time we finished, it was quite late. The staff had not revealed the book when I left.

Tired but excited children still had to wait for a further hour before seeing the front cover.

I am a St Albans magician. However, I think I left a slightly more popular one behind in the store. Showbiz is tough. I cover the whole of the UK so if you are looking for a Hertfordshire Magician do give me a call.