talkmagic.co.uk

Thanks everyone for answering. You have all been very helpful.

I have just ordered a load of books and dvds as I think you are right that that is he best place to start. I still want to order some basic tricks - but I will try and not be too impatient. My biggest fear is that I try and perform before I am ready and everyone will guess how it is done.

Thanks Siege for putting me on to www.penguinmagic.com., as seeing how the tricks should be done I think is going to be a must. The guys on the videos are so good. I am absolutely fascinated my magic being performed well.

And thanks magicdiscoman for the specific tricks for kids. ! will probably order the haunted key and some sponge ball magic (the rabbits sound ideal for an 8 year old girl!!) - I haven't yet found the sliding die box, but will keep searching. I only hope that I can master them in time.

i have a sliding die box to offer will let you know price.
its six months old but in good nick.
emagictricks does bags of 50 sponge balls for around thirty quid, gives you something to give away at gigs that will get you remembered.

Glad you found Penguin magic useful.

As as I explained, it is nice to see the potential of an effect performed by a decent magician with a PROPER routine, BEFORE YOU SPEND YOUR CASH!

Penguin have some of the clearest, consistently good quality movies which are constantly updated.

Well recommended.

I have to agree. This has just demonstrated the benefit of this board. I had never heard of penguin before. However went on the site yesterday saw some stuff spent $120..........

thanks for the tip.

Penguin also do special offers when you're a new member (usually 10%). Keep your eyes on your email!!!

Only thing to watch with imported magic is that a few times, my orders seem to be intercepted by the UK customs and excise, who slap a relatively heavy penalty on the goods.

Penguin overcame this by putting 'Magic Samples' on their international shipping label. This way, the C&E dudes know that the items inside are unlikely to be for retail, and don't bother opening the box.

Also, before ordering from Penguin, get your shopping list together and send a mail to pastamagic@aol.com for a quote.
The guy there is Frank Riposta, and he's been in the business for years. He'll undercut Penguin's prices, and although his shipping is dearer, it gets to you within a couple of days intact. He's also quite good at sourcing things you can't find elsewhere. (and it's STILL cheaper than most UK stores).

Tell him seige@mac.com gave you the tip off, he'll look after you!

But don't forget your friendly UK dealers ... (eMagictricks et al). They stock a wide range of items and most can deliver next-day...