A Royton magician has been honoured for 20 years of service to one of England’s oldest magic societies.
Mike Sharples, 58, who goes by the stage names ‘Magic Mike’ and ‘Mick the Trick’, stepped down from his role as secretary of The Order of The Magi which he held for two decades.
In recognition of his 20 years as secretary, he was presented with a magician’s wand and holder at the society’s Annual General Meeting.
He has been a member of the society for 27 years and will continue to hold the role of treasurer.
The Order of the Magi was established in 1909. It was started by a group of magicians in Manchester. For the past 117 years, the society has never missed holding a monthly meeting and publishing a member-only magazine.
It is the oldest magic society in Manchester and the third oldest in England. Today is the society’s 117-year birthday.
It was active during the two world wars and throughout the COVID-19 lockdowns.
He said: “Even during the lockdown when we couldn’t have physical meetings, we had people from all around the world joining us via Zoom.”
He has won several competitions for his comedy magic routines.
“I really like all types of magic, whether it’s stage or comedy magic. I don’t have a particular favourite,” he said. “I like to think that comedy magic is something I stand out in.”
He said comedy magic is difficult because the performer must concentrate on the magic and make the audience laugh as well.
Though Mike was interested in magic as a child, his journey started after receiving two packs of cards and a book on magic from his wife 34 years ago.
In 1995, Mike and some friends started the Oldham Magic Club. They would meet at different venues and host lectures and other activities.
He said that despite the advances in technology there are still many skilled individuals who keep the art of magic alive.
“I feel there is nothing better than face-to-face magic. I am friends with many magicians. One of them is regarded among the top five magicians in the world. I have met the likes of Penn and Teller and Dynamo among many others,” he added.
He remembers the privilege of performing to a group of astronauts when he doubted himself.
He said: “As a member of the Order of the Magi I performed for the President of Ireland at a civic reception in Manchester. For me, magic is a hobby. I have a regular job in the print industry.”
The Order of the Magi meets twice a month at the Irish World Heritage Centre in Cheetham Hill.
For more details visit: www.orderofthemagi.co.uk
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