John Nevil Maskelyne – Gloucestershire’s Master of Magic & Mystery

Mon, 18 November 2024, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Holst Victorian House, 4 Clarence Road, Cheltenham, GL52 2AY
{bookings_open}£10.00
 

John Nevil Maskelyne, or ‘The Chief’ as he’s known in magic circles, was born in Cheltenham in 1839.  He began his career as a professional magician after exposing two American spiritualists as frauds at Cheltenham Town Hall (now the site of The Everyman Theatre).  He holds the record for the longest continuous running magic show in British history and, during his talk, Andy Meller will explore the life of this fascinating man, from his earliest years in Cheltenham, which were to shape the rest of his life, to his time at Egyptian Hall in London and beyond.

Magician, author and inventor, Maskelyne also found time to create the penny lock for the toilet, giving rise to the expression ‘going to spend a penny.’  He is still honoured by the Magic Circle who present an annual award in his name.

The talk – in the Drawing Room at Holst Victorian House – is illustrated with power point and includes one or two magic tricks along the way!

Andy’s interest in magic was sparked at an early age, when he was presented with a magic set one Christmas.  His long-suffering family were subjected to a variety of magic shows in the ensuing years.

He first came across John Nevil Maskelyne after purchasing a book at a magic convention which explored the lives of famous and influential magicians. Having discovered that Maskelyne was born in Cheltenham, Andy’s home town for over 30 years, he began to delve deeper into the life of this extraordinary man.

When not exploring the past, Andy has worked as a headteacher, storyteller, actor and latterly as a bookseller at Waterstones in Gloucester.

He continues to practise his magic (badly) and test the patience of those unfortunate enough to live with him.

The admission price includes a welcoming drink (alcoholic or non) in the Victorian Kitchen. 

Andy enthralled us on his previous visits: A Very Dickensian Christmas, Tales From The Shadows.  Don’t miss out on this special evening.  Places are limited. 

All proceeds will go towards the upkeep of the museum. If you can’t make the event but would like to support the museum, you can donate here.

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