Magic

Magic

Much of our work is about meeting people, recording their experiences and preserving these untold stories to share with our communities.

Through these conversations we are able to highlight how Blackpool inspired so many magicians and how significant the town was to their careers and the magic community.

Gallery Highlights

The extraordinary life and career of Karl Bartoni

Discover more about Blackpool's Karl Bartoni, his extraordinary life and career.

Behind the scenes: Discovering the Magic in Blackpool

Discover more about the relationship between Blackpool and magic!

Cyril Critchlow

The Lancashire magician who inspired Blackpool’s new museum, Showtown!

Image of How's Tricks? gallery with poster of Murray - Blackpool's famous Australian Escapologist in shot

Murray - Blackpool’s famous Australian Escapologist

On Escapology Day we are remembering one of Blackpool’s most famous characters, a retired Australian magician and escapologist called Murray.

Mark Raffles with Rachael

Mark Raffles: World famous pickpocket magician

Mark Raffles; the most famous pickpocket magician in the world turns 100 years old this year. Learn more about the oldest magician in the business.

Other things to Discover

Related content

Charlie Cairoli performing

Circus

Discover more about the circus community and those people of significance who have made Blackpool Tower Circus the longest running circus in the UK.

Woman and children building sandcastles, with advertisements on the pier for 'Kovah Jellies, Diamond Star, Weekly Dispatch and Whittakers Jams.'

Seaside

Discover more about Blackpool's growth into a seaside resort and the many developments Blackpool has seen over the years.

Entrance to the Blackpool Tower building with signs for 'Pavilion, Concerts, Dancing & Variety Shows.'

Stories from the community

More fascinating stories of Blackpool, researched by our volunteers and other members of the community, that all add to the town's rich heritage.