David Devant

An press release about David Devant the Magician, not to be confused with old fave of mine David Devant the band... Well, maybe it's OK to confuse them as one is named after the other.

English Heritage plaque to conjurer David Devant to be unveiled at his former home (1, Ornan Court, Ornan Road, North London).

One of British magic's founding fathers was today being commemorated as part of a scheme which remembers key figures in the country's history. An English Heritage Blue Plaque was being unveiled outside the home of David Devant, in Camden, north London.

The first president of conjuring society, The Magic Circle, was described by one critic as "the greatest magician of all time".

Many of his tricks involving the disappearance of human beings have seldom been attempted since, English Heritage said.

His shows featured mysteries such as the `Magic Kettle' from which he poured any drink called for by the audience.

His act has inspired contemporary magicians of the present day. Devant's catchphrase was "all done by kindness" - and, by all accounts, he enjoyed popular appeal throughout his career.

The plaque was being unveiled by John Fisher, magic historian and executive curator of Magic Circle, as well as Emily Cole, Head of the English Heritage Blue Plaques Team.

pauly :: 2003 :: Comment / reply