|
Written by Paul Jameson
|
|
Thursday, 22 September 2005 |
Paul Daniels is undoubtedly Britains best known magician. He has, for many years now, entertained millions of people with his, often spectacular, magic tricks.
He was born in South Bank, Middlesbrough, where his parents managed the local Hippodrome Theatre. Paul's first taste of magic came at the age of 11. He was on holiday at the time, staying with friends, when he discovered a book called 'How To Entertain At Parties', which contained several magic card tricks. Paul was fascinated by the tricks the book contained, and soon became hooked on magic. "From that moment, I can safely say that all I ever wanted to do in life was to become a professional magician," he says.
Unfortunately for Paul, he had to knuckle down to the more mundane things in life, like growing up and going to school. Stardom had to wait, at least for the time being. However, his interest in magic increased, and he was soon entertaining at parties and youth clubs.
After a two year stint working in local government, Paul was called up for National Services and joined 1st Battalion, Green Howards, where, during a posting to Hong Kong, he entertained the troops with his magical skills. On his return to civvy street, Paul then ran his own mobile grocery stall and eventually bought himself a shop. During the days he worked selling groceries and by night, he entertained people with his magic.
After a lucky break, getting a summer season in Newquay, Paul sold his business and went into showbusiness professionally. His big break came when he came 2nd on ‘Opportunity Knocks’ in 1969. From then he appeared on TV show ‘9’ and his career really took off.
Since then, Paul Daniels has gone on to perform hundreds of Live shows, hundreds of TV appearances and even a stint on the radio!! Paul continues to court success with his own brand of magic and unforgettable phrase 'You'll like it - Not a lot!'. He is, without doubt, one of Teesside's most successful entertainers!
|
Home 
People 
