This week we welcome Oliver Tabor, FISM European champion and creator of the acclaimed West End Magic show to the Alakazam Island. In this captivating conversation, Oliver reveals the eight magical effects that have defined his remarkable career – from the humble Svengali deck that first sparked his passion as a child to the massive Fabergé egg illusion that requires five flight cases to transport.
Oliver's journey through magic is a masterclass in dedication and artistic integrity. Having performed with doves since age 15, he shares profound insights about the care and respect these animals deserve, emphasising, "The doves are my pets and colleagues, not my props." This ethical approach has led to extraordinary opportunities, including his doves performing for the Queen and appearing in major films.
The discussion delves deep into what makes truly magical moments. Oliver believes in creating shared experiences, particularly through effects like the Continuous Do As I Do, where spectators become active participants rather than passive observers. He describes the indescribable joy of helping a child produce a dove in their own hands – a moment of pure wonder that transcends explanation.
What sets Oliver apart is his commitment to visual magic that creates genuine astonishment. Whether transforming a bubble into a solid ball or presenting the classic floating table illusion, he strives for that ethereal quality where the impossible becomes reality. His insights on selecting the perfect music for performances reveal how every element contributes to creating a complete magical experience.
Throughout the conversation, Oliver offers invaluable wisdom for performers: stay true to your authentic self rather than chasing trends. Having witnessed countless magicians dramatically shift styles with each new television sensation, he advocates for finding what resonates personally and perfecting it, regardless of what's fashionable.
Discover why Oliver's West End Magic show has thrived for 13 years and why his performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide. From close-up mysteries to grand stage illusions, Oliver Tabor represents magic at its most diverse, dedicated, and delightful.
Join us for this fascinating discussion that will inspire you to see magic with fresh eyes and perhaps rekindle your own sense of wonder. Whether you're a seasoned performer or simply enchanted by the impossible, Oliver's insights will transform how you experience the art of magic.
Oliver Tabor's Desert Island Tricks:
- Svengali Deck
- Pena Coin
- Doves
- Continuous Do As I Do
- Bubble to Ball
- Floating Table
- Giant Fabergé Egg
- Floating Candle
Banishment. Don’t Follow the Crowd
Book. Roy Benson by Starlight
Item. Music
Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk