First magic festival conjures up star guest

The festival, running from 1-11 July, culminates in a magic and variety gala show on the final day at the Royal Lyceum Theatre.

The gala will feature some of the best performers from the main festival, including world-renowned acts and a few Edinburgh Fringe favourites.

Among the acts confirmed are John Archer, the Magic Circle's current Stage Magician of the Year and the man entrusted to entertain Derren Brown's father at his 70th birthday.

Other acts include quick-change artists Keelan Leyser and Charlotte Marie, The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre, and The Great Nardini, whose mix of comedy and magic made him one of only two Scottish performers ever honoured at the World Magic Championships. Kevin McMahon, the Magic Festival's creative director, said: "We're very excited to bring this really original event to such a magical city.

"Even with the rich culture Edinburgh has, I can't remember there ever being a variety show like this. It's going to be a great opportunity for the people of Edinburgh to get up close and personal with some of the best that magic has to offer."