March 24: Young Magician of 1961

In 1961, The Magic Circle held its first ever Young Magician of the Year Competition. Its winner was Johnny Hart, a remarkable magician whose charm and skill at the age of just 18 netted him the coveted title. After a series of card manipulations, and the production of silks and doves, Johnny performed a remarkable effect. He “invited a gentleman from the audience to join him,” a reporter in The Magic Circular explained. “With the volunteer at his elbow he produced three silks, bundled them up and placed them in the assistant’s cupped hands. Johnny pulled the silks aside and the surprised volunteer found he was holding a dove. The dove was passed to an assistant, the silks returned to the volunteer, and the effect immediately repeated.” If you aren’t familiar with Johnny’s work do look him up and make sure you see his routine with budgies.