The intensely fought competition , playing to a full to capacity HQ , featured eight Members battling for the coveted title .

In third place was Sean Heydon AIMC whose energetic routine featured a dazzling dice routine , and runner up was the skilful and enchanting Andrei Isfan AIMC

On winning first prize , Matthew Le Mottée AIMC said “ It ’ s an honour to have won and definitely the highlight of my career so far ! Over twenty years of practice and hard work condensed down to just seven minutes , it ’ s been an incredible journey so far and worth every second !”

The Magic Circle ’ s President said : “ Congratulations to Matthew for a winning this much coveted title . This years competition showcased a range of magic and performance styles and our winner proved that hard work and dedication to the art pays off . I wish him the very best of luck pursuing his professional magic career ’."

The Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year Competition began in 1967 and is held annually at The Magic Circle Headquarters . The judges include experienced magicians and invited members of the public who cast their votes to choose the winner .

For a full list of winners visit http :// themagiccircle . co . uk / the-society / our-awards / close-upmagician

For more information contact pro @ themagiccircle . co . uk or Matthew Le Mottée directly : info @ matthewlemottee . com

AUGUST 13 , 1955 – FEBRUARY 24 , 2017

PLEASE DONATE TO THE DARYL EASTON FAMILY FUND

The office at the Magic Castle has received calls from members and magicians around the world , asking how one can offer support and donations to the Daryl Easton family .

The Academy of Magical Arts has now established a fund to receive donations for Alison Easton , Daryl ’ s wife , and their two daughters . You can also send bereavement cards for Alison to the AMA offices as well , who will forward them to the family .

If you would like to make a donation to the family , please send a check payable to “ The Academy of Magical Arts , Easton Family Fund ” to :

The Academy of Magical Arts ATT : Daryl Easton Family Fund 7001 Franklin Ave Hollywood CA 90028

If you would like to donate via credit card , please call Trish Alaskey at 323-851-3313 ext . 301 .

You can pay via PAYPAL direct to : magic @ daryl . net .

The Academy will work with Alison and the family , and pick a date in the future to hold a memorial for Daryl . If you have any questions , please email the General Manager , Joe Furlow , at : jfurlow @ magiccastle . com .

12 VANISH Magazine www . VanishMagazine . com