Home Counties Magical Society

Many of you probably know that I'll be getting married this weekend (4th October 2008), traditionally I'm meant to have a stag do, and in fitting style, Simon Drake's House of Magic seemed the ideal choice.

Behind high red metal gates at a secret location, hides a secret world of illusion, magic, and enchantment. Simon was kind enough to me hold my stag evening there this Friday, and I fully recommend it as a night out (even if your not getting married!)…

From the very outset, Simon was helpful, friendly and went out of his way to accommodate us, The house of Magic is located just inside central london (about 30 minutes on the tube from Paddington), run by Simon Drake, the star of The Secret Cabaret, horror, gothic and gruesome magic he set up a permanently theme 4,000 square foot Victorian residence back in 1996 for evening shows of his signature magic. The venue is now open to the public on a once a month basis for shows, drinks and dancing, as well as being available for private hire.

There is no need to talk about what effects he does in the show, since that would spoil some of the surprises, but Simon presents almost an hour of polished, excellent stage magic and illusion.  The ticket price includes food, and entertainment, the evening runs from 7pm until 12:15am and personally I think is cheap for the entertainment you see during the evening..

After the show we talked with Simon about a recent shoot in the venue and his house above the theater for Bizarre Magazine. The Halloween issue which comes out 15th October in the UK features an extensive article on the venue, show, Simon and his Gothic horror magic. With some rare and unique shots normally reserved for only very special guests and Simon’s crew, the article captures Simon Drake and the essence of the House of Magic..

For HCMS members I'll be putting some photos and information inside the site later this week, about some of the things we saw, and did during the evening..