Pembrokeshire magician Tom Luddington (stage name Tom Thumb Magic) has recently become the only magician in Pembrokeshire to be a full member of the prestigious Magic Circle in London.

“I was delighted to pass the exam,” he said. “I have met some wonderful magicians at the Magic Circle over the past few years, and I’m proud to now be part of the same club as the biggest names in magic, such as Derren Brown, Dynamo and David Blaine.”

To become a member of the most secretive club in the world, magicians have to be put forward by two existing members who have known them for at least a year. After an initial interview and period of apprenticeship, candidates then have to pass an exam which involves performing magic to around 50 members at the Magic Circle headquarters near Euston in London. Three judges then meet at council to decide if the magic and presentation were good enough to award full membership.

“It’s not easy to get in, but once you are in you have access to a huge library of magic books and resources - and of course other members are happy to share many of their secrets and to work together to take the art of magic to the next level at club meetings and events,” said Tom. “Being a member has already taken my magic to the next level again.”

Tom’s style of magic is known as ‘close up magic’ where the magic happens right in front of you and often in the hands of the audience. Having a magician at your wedding or party has become really popular again due to successful magicians appearing on shows like ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and Penn and Teller’s ‘Fool Us’.

Tom has been performing magic professionally for over 10 years, but this boost has given him the confidence to go full time as a magician.

“I love all styles of magic, and I perform intimate parlour shows and up on stage - but my favourite style is ‘close up’ magic,” he explained. “There are no TV camera tricks, or smoke and mirrors to hide behind and people love that. I’ve spent well over 10,000 hours perfecting my illusions and invested everything in magic so that I can create in others a real sense of amazement and wonder.

“I believe magic done well can be something really special as well as being great fun. It’s a great feeling to be able to share magic with people. A dream job for me.”

Tom also runs workshops and private lessons in London and Pembrokeshire coaching ‘bona fide students of magic’ in the art of illusion and wonder.

To find out more contact Tom Thumb Magic: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tomthumbmagic/Website: www.tomthumbmagic.com