Close-Up Magician
Award-winning sleight of hand, mind reading and table magic for events across the UK.
I'm Nick Rushton, an award-winning close-up magician for hire in the UK, with over 29 years of experience performing sleight of hand, mind reading and close-up magic at weddings, corporate events and private parties. I'm a former Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year winner and I've appeared on BBC One, Channel 5 and Sky.
What Makes Close-Up Magic Different
Most people think of magic as something that happens on a stage — a performer in a spotlight, an audience watching from a distance. Close-up magic is the exact opposite. It happens right in front of you. Often in your own hands. And the effect is completely different.
When a card changes colour while you're holding it, or a borrowed ring vanishes from your hand and reappears inside a sealed envelope — there's no stage, no distance, no smoke and mirrors. Just pure, impossible magic happening inches from your eyes. The reactions are visceral: genuine gasps, laughter and disbelief.
That's why close-up magic is the most powerful form of entertainment for weddings, corporate events and private parties. It doesn't need a stage, a sound system or a spotlight. It just needs your guests — and me.
What You Get When You Book Me
My routines are exciting, high-impact and accompanied by clean, sharp wit. I'm a highly polished entertainer who understands that professionalism matters as much as the magic itself. Whether it's mix-and-mingle magic at a drinks reception or table magic during dinner, I guarantee your guests will be amazed.
Events I Regularly Perform At
I travel to events across the entire UK — London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and everywhere in between.
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See Me In Action
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What People Say
500+ five-star reviews from happy clients over 30 years.
The feedback I got from my guests have been amazing! They all said you were wonderful.
You were absolutely brilliant and talked about among our guests all evening!
Nick was absolutely brilliant and mixed with our team really well! Would highly recommend.
Everyone was so impressed and astounded, you were the highlight of many conversations.
You are very talented and everyone had fantastic fun. You certainly left our guests amazed.
Nick was AMAZING! Never seen anything like it before, and very funny too.
Award-Winning Magician
My highly regarded awards include:
The Magic Circle (London)
"Young Magician Of The Year"
The World Magic Awards
"Best Young Performer"
International Brotherhood Of Magicians
"British Junior Magical Champion"
As Seen On Television
Close-Up Magician FAQs
What is close-up magic?
Close-up magic is magic performed right in front of your guests using everyday objects — cards, coins, phones, rings and borrowed items. Unlike stage magic, it happens inches from your eyes and often in your own hands. It's incredibly personal, interactive, and far more memorable than any stage show. My close-up magic also includes mind reading, pickpocket magic and metal bending.
How much does a close-up magician cost?
A professional close-up magician in the UK typically costs between £400 and £900 for 2–3 hours. The fee depends on the event type, duration and venue location. Get in touch and I'll send you a tailored quote within 24 hours.
What events can a close-up magician perform at?
Close-up magic works at virtually any event where guests gather — weddings, corporate events, private parties, awards ceremonies, Christmas parties, conferences, dinner parties and trade shows. It's particularly effective during drinks receptions and between courses at dinner.
What is the difference between close-up magic and stage magic?
Stage magic is performed at a distance for a large audience. Close-up magic happens right in front of you — often in your own hands. Cards change, coins vanish, borrowed rings appear in impossible places. It's far more personal and interactive, and the reactions are much stronger because there's nowhere to hide.
Do you travel across the UK?
Yes, I travel UK-wide for events. I regularly perform in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Liverpool, Edinburgh and throughout the UK. See all areas covered. Travel is always included in my quote.
Do you have insurance?
Yes — I'm a member of Equity and fully insured for public liability, which most UK venues require. Bookings are confirmed in writing with a simple contract.
Ready To Hire a Close-Up Magician?
Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote. I'm a Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year, TV performer, and one of the UK's most awarded close-up magicians.
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