Eddie Dawes reminded members that when Steve Beam had talked to us last time, Eddie had invited him back and tonight we were privileged to hear Steve give us further glimpses of his inventive mind. His latest book Semi- Automatic Card Tricks volume 4 was now published.

The comedy of Steve Beam started by introducing Mr. Jimmy, a hand puppet who revealed more than expected. Then followed a dazzling display of effects, all comprehensively explained, together with a brief history of tricks leading up to this result. Upside Down, Cutting Class, Mortality, Exchange and Three Piece Combo were included in this half. He explained that he always tried to engage the audience with a hook to gain their interest. Steve believed that any sleight should be indistinguishable from normal card handling, and used the Underhand False Shuffle to demonstrate the point. You should pick sleights that are natural to your handling. After a series of card tricks, Steve demonstrated his thimble work, including the distinctive popping sound that added to the appearances. The first half finished with Layover

The second half continued with Widowmaker Steve’s development of Paul Curry’s Out of This World, avoiding the long spectator involvement that breaks the momentum of a presentation. Triumph plus and Stebbin Out followed. Coin through glass was next and then Steve finished with his masterpiece Multiple Impact.

Eddie Dawes thanked Steve for some brilliant magic, the psychology behind the magic and the entertainment. This night had been eagerly anticipated, and the explanations had been to the same high standards as the books many members had in their libraries.