Dave Loosely, fresh from his victory as the Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year 2025, reveals his definitive list in this captivating conversation about the effects that truly matter.

Dave begins by taking us behind the scenes of his competition-winning act, sharing how he meticulously crafted each moment to appeal to both lay judges and magicians alike. "Everything was in there to try and win the competition," he explains, describing the intense six-month preparation process that consumed him in pursuit of perfection.

His desert island selections paint a fascinating portrait of a magician who finds extraordinary magic in ordinary objects. From his signature routine “Squash”, where a bottle cap impossibly penetrates a deck of cards and emerges flattened, to his theatrical adaptation of the Needle Through Balloon that serves as both comedy ‘bit’ and spectacular finale, each choice reflects Dave's philosophy that the most powerful magic happens when spectators connect with recognisable items.

Particularly revealing is Dave's discussion of performance structure and creating multiple moments of wonder within a single routine. Whether it's his adaptation of Paper Balls Over Head that fools both volunteer and audience with different restorations, or his coin transposition "Envision" that delivers three magical moments in quick succession, Dave demonstrates why being a great magician requires being a thoughtful theatrical artist first.

Beyond the tricks themselves, this episode offers valuable insights into professional magic, how to create "kickback" moments where reality shifts unexpectedly, why certain effects withstand the test of time, and the importance of finding your own handling for commercial tricks. Dave's thoughtful reflections on how each effect shaped his journey make this essential listening for anyone passionate about the art of magic.

Dave's Desert Island Tricks: 

1. Squash 
2. The Magicians Matchbox 
3. Harmonica Chop Cup
4. Envision 
5. No Tear Paper Balls 
6. Needle Through Balloon 
7. Bill in Egg / Wallnut / Lemon 
8. Four Nightmare 

Banishment. Magic Ego’s and Cliques 

Book. Rune’s World 

Item. Drum Set 

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk