The world’s top magician Jason Latimer from the US is the headline act for this year’s South Tyneside International Magic Festival.

ONE of the world’s most celebrated magicians will be headlining the South Tyneside International Magic Festival 2011. Multiaward winning US illusionist Jason Latimer is one of a host of stars set to feature at the week-long event organised by South Tyneside Council, which returns for its eighth year from Monday, March 7 2011.

Latimer’s innovative concepts for illusion design mean he is in constant demand as both a performer and creator, working on behalf of numerous magicians, illusionists and venues around the world, as well starring in his own live shows which feature everything from bending light and shaping water to levitating fire.

The 27-year-old burst onto the magic scene in 2003, when he became only the third American in history to be named as Grand Prix Best Overall World Champion of Magic.

Since then he has performed in more than 40 countries worldwide and earned countless accolades, including being given the SARMOTI (Siegfried And Roy Masters Of The Impossible) title by legendary magic duo Siegfried and Roy.

Other international performers in the Magic Festival’s bumper line-up for 2011, which was compiled with help from former President of the Newcastle Magic Circle, Martin Duffy, include American conjurer Paul Vigil and award-winning French magicians David Stone and Norbert Ferre.

A number of UK-based acts will also be involved, including best-selling author Nicholas Einhorn, children’s magician Gary Dunn and illusionist Andrew Van Buren who continues his family’s long history in the magic profession.

Together, these experienced magicians will take part in a number of public performances which make up the week-long Magic Festival, including two Gala Shows at the Customs House theatre, South Shields, on Friday, March 11 and Saturday, March 12.

They will also feature in the festival’s specialist three-day magic convention, which is open exclusively to practising magicians and the most magic dedicated fans and offers masterclasses, lectures and question and answer sessions at various venues in South Tyneside from Friday, March 11.

Coun Tracey Dixon, lead member culture and well-being for South Tyneside Council says: “The South Tyneside International Magic Festival is a unique highlight in the North-East events calendar, which annually attracts hundreds of magic fans from around the world.

“The 2011 event promises one of the best line-ups in the festival’s eight year history and, with such innovative and talented performers set to take to the stage, we are sure there will be something on offer for visitors of every age.”

■ Tickets for both the Gala Shows and the Magic Convention are on sale now.

southtyneside.info/magicfestival Box Office: 0191-454-1234