An Aberdeen magician has pulled a rabbit out of the hat by being voted the north-east’s most entertaining conjuror.
Eoin Smith received the Jocky Scott Trophy for Entertainment by the Aberdeen Magical Society after parading his prestidigitation to impressive effect.
The 25-year-old, who has lifted the trophy twice before in 2011 and 2013, fought off stiff competition from five other magicians to be crowned the winner with a spellbinding display.
His routine combined his passions for magic and music. And, during his performance, he was able to reveal a song, which was only hitherto in the heads of audience members.
Mr Smith said afterwards: “I’ve been working on this routine for well over a year, so I was really pleased that it was well-received.
“This competition is really special as it is judged by both my peers and by members of the public, so it was a real honour to be awarded the trophy.”
Mr Smith’s love of magic began at an early age: his father is a professional magician, but it wasn’t until his teens that he began to perform for the public himself.
Now, though, his creative conjuring has seen him unveil his repertoire across the country for television executives and celebrities, ranging from five-star hotels to comedy clubs and everywhere in between.
He is also a writer for a number of high-profile publications for magicians around the world.
He added: “Our house was always full of magic when I was growing up, but my dad never pushed me into following the ‘family trade’.
“When I was thinking of starting to go out and perform, he brought me along to the Aberdeen Magical Society, so I could meet other magicians in the area and see all these incredible performers who were visiting from around the world. I was hooked.
“I’m sure my mum was thrilled that there would be twice as many magic props filling the house.
“Magic is all about allowing people to share an experience of something impossible, be it their chosen card disappearing from their hand and appearing somewhere else, or an elephant vanishing on stage.
“I think the sense of wonder magic creates brings people together in a way other art forms can’t – and, for that reason, it’s really special.
“There’s a real sense of camaraderie at the Aberdeen Magical Society, and, throughout my career, I have received some great advice from the members.
“I would recommend any budding magicians out there to get in touch and find out more.”
The Jocky Scott Trophy for Entertainment, named after a popular former member of the society, is one of three annual competitions held by Aberdeen Magical Society, and was first awarded in 1985.
Judged by a panel of magicians and invited members of the public, the award is given to the competitor who – quite simply – is the most entertaining.
Aberdeen Magical Society was founded in 1926 and this year celebrates its 90th anniversary.
As one of the most active magical societies in the country, it boasts a membership ranging from full-time professionals to amateur hobbyists, and all those with an interest in magic are welcome to join.
