Step behind the curtain with Mark Bennett, the brilliantly funny owner of Smoke and Mirrors Comedy and Magic Theatre Pub in Bristol, as he reveals the eight magic effects that would accompany him to a desert island.

Mark's journey through magic is fascinating, from nightclub performer to magic bar pioneer to successful creator of commercial effects used by magicians worldwide. With his signature wit and decades of performing experience, he shares why the humble double-backer has "bought him three pubs," and how his wildly popular "Get Smarty" evolved from noticing Smarties packages had changed shape.

What makes this episode particularly special is Mark's candid discussion about comedy in magic. His "Leave it to Beaver” demonstrates his masterful approach to adult humour, balancing cheeky innuendo with genuine magical moments in a way that has audiences laughing before they realise they perhaps shouldn't have. Similarly, his stories about his mind-reading goose named Dave showcase how character work can elevate a standard routine into something uniquely memorable.

Throughout our conversation, Mark reveals the psychological principles that make his magic so effective. Whether explaining why his three-ball sponge routine still gets reactions from people who've seen sponge ball tricks before, or sharing his philosophy on making spectators the stars of his shows, his insights offer valuable lessons for performers of all types.

Perhaps most refreshing is Mark's commitment to practical, workable magic. Every effect in his list has been battle-tested through thousands of performances at his venue. From his controversial decision to banish four-card routines to his gleeful description of "exposing" how sponge ball magic works (while actually misdirecting his audiences), Mark demonstrates why he's not just a venue owner but a respected creator and performer in his own right.

Discover why Mark's approach to magic has made Smoke and Mirrors a must-visit destination for magic fans and performers alike. Whether you're a magician seeking practical performance advice or simply curious about the mind behind some of magic's most commercial routines, this episode delivers entertainment and insights in equal measure.

Mark’s Desert Island Tricks: 

1. Double Backer 
2. Get Smarty 
3. Que the Magic 
4. Peek - Blindz / Tele-thought
5. Sponge Balls
6. Leave it to Beaver 
7. The Queens Nose 
8. Mind Reading Goose

Banishment. Four Card Routines 

Book. Aspen Bar Magic by Michael Ammar

Item. Smarties

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