To celebrate DNA’s headline show at Leicester Square Theatre this Halloween, we’ve put together the best awe-inspiring magic tricks to take British telly by storm.
DARCY OAKE
Many people hadn’t heard of this Canadian magician until he appeared (as if by magic) on our Saturday night screens auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent. It was a card trick his dad showed him when he was eight years old that set Darcy Oake on his journey into the world of magic and illusion. Since coming fifth on the reality show, Darcy has his very own one-hour special for ITV and has moved to London to work on never-before-seen illusions for his shows across the UK. Darcy Oake’s performance in the final captured the nation, becoming a viral sensation.
DYNAMO
Dynamo, real name Stephen Frayne, first burst onto the scene in 2008 and since then has established himself as one of the greats. The Bradford-born conjurer’s first TV appearance was on Channel 4’s ‘Richard & Judy’ show – and now with BAFTA winning TV show of his own, a hugely successful autobiography and sell out arena tours under his belt he has paved the way for a younger generation to fall in love with magic all over again. This iconic clip shows the magician taking a stroll over the river Thames to shock of many bystanders as he defeats any known law of physics.
DNA
DNA’s audition for Britain’s Got Talent last year had social media in a frenzy – just how did they leave Simon Cowell so speechless? The duo, who hail from Essex, have won accolades “Gold Star Member of the Inner Magic Circle” and “The Magic Circle Close Up Magician of the Year” for their work. Many magicians have walked the BGT stage, but rarely are they this successful with the judges and go on to achieve a such a strong following after the final. The pair will bring their breath-taking illusions to the public, as they play Leicester Square Theatre at the end of October.
BEN HANLIN
With his cheeky sense of humour and quick wit, Ben Hanlin is likeable as he is talented. With his popular ITV2 show, ‘Tricked’ even being remade in Canada – this 31-year-old magician is one of the youngest members of The Magic Circle and a familiar face to a new generation of magic fans. With appearances ranging from CBBC to the Discovery Channel, this laid-back Birmingham native sparks an excitement for magic for any age. This clip taken from Ben’s appearance on ‘Loose Women’ shows his incredible ability to engage any crowd and leave them excited for more.
DERREN BROWN
Born and raised in Croyden, Derren Brown is arguably one of Britain’s favourite magicians. Starting out with his ‘Mind Control’ show in 2000, Derren still produces hugely successful series and specials for British television. He has produced several other shows both for the stage. He has also written books for magicians as well as the public. It has taken 17 years to have his first headline stage show in the USA which took place this summer. This clip is the perfect example of Derren Brown’s mind-blowing technique that leaves innocent strangers totally baffled, makes entertainment that translates on screen and on stage.