The annual South Tyneside International Magic Festival, which is now in its sixth year, will run from Monday March 9 to Sunday March 15, taking in venues across the borough. South Tyneside Council, The Customs House and Martin Duffy, past President of the Newcastle Magic Circle, have conjured up a line-up of top class magicians for this year’s week-long event, sponsored by Magicbox.

The 2009 festival will climax with an in-depth three day Magic Convention, running at the Customs House from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 March and featuring a mix of lectures and close-up sessions.

Tickets for the convention, which attracts magic enthusiasts from around the world, will be priced at £65. They include entry to the two international gala shows, plus a special midnight show at the Sea Hotel featuring renowned character magician Jasper as Russian-esque mentalist character ‘Kockov’ and deranged children’s entertainer, Uncle Al The Kiddie’s Pal.

For those attending the convention who want a closer look at magic Banachek, Bob Sheets and Paul Romhany will also be hosting personal master classes on Sunday 15 March at an additional charge.

As well as our own listing, full details on the entire festival can be found on the official site here with the convention specific and booking form here. We will have a Guide and Room Booking section up next week.

Artists confirmed include John Archer, Steve Axtell, Banachek, Paul Dabek, Paul Daniels, Jasper, Patrick Redford, Paul Romhany, Bob Sheets, Russ Stevens, Tim Vine, David Williamson, and Stephen Williams.