MAGICIANS IN DEMAND

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32524, 6 February 1971, Page 17

MAGICIANS IN DEMAND

The demands made on the sen-ices of magicians in the last year emphasised the increasing popularity of magic for entertainment, said Mt R. M. Lewis, president of the Canterbury Society of Magicians, on Wednesday evening.

Mr Lewis said that during the year the society provided eight evenings of magic and variety shows to raise funds for' various schools; seven visits to - provide entertainment at institutions; and the annual benefit show at the Civic Theatre recently when 1100 children were given free entertainment.

At the annual meeting of the society recently, Mr Lewis was also elected patron. A member of the society since it was formed 32 years ago, Mr Lewis served several terms as president and secretary of the society, and is a life member.

Mr G. G. Pratley, a society member for more than 22 years, who has also served several terms as president and secretary, was elected a life member.

The society’s annual award of merit and efficiency shield was won by Messrs Pratley and Mr R. Williams. Other officers elected were: Vice-president, Mr P. J. Sweeney: secretary, Mr Pratley; treasurer, Mr J. W. Raines; committee member, Mr J. Bruce; librarian, Mr Sweeney; assistant librarian, Mr P. Straw; auditor, Mr B. C. Blackmore; examining panel, Messrs R. B. Scandrett, Pratley, Lewis, Raines, and Williams.