If you have ever thought about joining a magic club, you have probably wondered what actually goes on behind closed doors.

Is it all top hats and secret handshakes? Is there some sort of magician’s oath? A mysterious initiation? A hidden room beneath Manchester where members gather around candlelight discussing card controls?

Well… not quite.

Despite what some people imagine, joining a magic society is nothing like joining the Freemasons, and sadly rather less like Hogwarts than many of us might secretly hope.

At its heart, a magic club in the UK is simply a place where people with a genuine interest in magic come together to learn, socialise, share ideas, and occasionally fool one another with a magic trick they absolutely insist is “still a work in progress”.

So… what actually happens at a magic club?

The answer is: quite a lot.

At The Order of The Magi, our meetings range from professional magic lectures through to social nights, practical sessions, competitions, fundraising shows, and plenty of opportunities to learn, collaborate, and build friendships with others who share a passion for magic.

A typical year might include:

• Guest lectures from some of the biggest names in magic
• Club nights to perform, practise, and share ideas
• Friendly magic competitions
• Informal “jam nights” where members session together
• Fundraising shows and performances
• Social events including BBQs and our Christmas Party Pub Crawl
• Sales, discussions, and occasional surprises

In short, there is usually something happening for every kind of magician.

Whether your interest is close-up magic, stage illusion, comedy magic, children’s entertainment, mentalism, bizarre magic, escapology, hypnosis, or simply an appreciation for the art, there will almost certainly be someone who shares your enthusiasm.

Do you have to perform?

Not at all.

This is probably one of the biggest misconceptions about joining a society for magicians.

Some members perform professionally. Others are enthusiastic amateurs. Some have been studying magic for decades but rarely perform at all. And some simply enjoy collecting books, learning about magical history, or discussing methods and presentation.

Nobody is forced to stand up and perform.

Of course, if you want to try material in front of a friendly audience, you will usually find plenty of encouragement and constructive advice from people who genuinely want to help.

Is it all about secrets?

Yes… and no.

Let’s be honest, magicians do enjoy secrets. It comes with the territory.

But if your only interest is discovering “how tricks are done”, you may find joining a magic society a little disappointing.

The real fascination of magic goes far beyond methods.

Presentation, timing, psychology, performance, scripting, audience management, comedy, storytelling, character, misdirection, and even stagecraft often matter far more than the mechanics of a trick itself.

In many ways, the secret is usually the least interesting part.

A good magic society is really about developing an appreciation for the art of magic and sharing ideas with others who genuinely enjoy it.

What happens at The Order of The Magi?

Some members are full-time professionals, others perform occasionally, and many simply enjoy magic as a fascinating hobby.

The one thing most members have in common is a genuine love of the art.

Thinking of joining a magic club in Manchester?

If you have a genuine interest in magic and would like to meet others who share it, why not come along and experience a meeting for yourself?

Visitors are welcome to selected meetings and lectures by prior arrangement, making it a great way to see what a magic club in Manchester is really like before deciding whether membership is right for you.

Whether you are an experienced performer, a complete beginner, or simply someone with a serious interest in magic, you will always find a warm welcome at The Order of The Magi.

Find out more about membership, and our upcoming lectures & events.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Order of The Magi

Do I have to be a professional magician to join The Order of The Magi?

Not at all. Our members include full-time professionals, part-time performers, hobbyists, collectors, and people with a serious interest in magic. What matters most is a genuine enthusiasm for the art of magic.

I am new to magic. Can beginners join?

Yes. While some members have been involved in magic for many years, others join to learn more and develop their skills. The Order of The Magi welcomes people at different stages of their magical journey, provided they have a genuine interest in magic.

Do I have to perform at meetings?

No. Nobody is required to perform. Some members love getting up to demonstrate routines or ideas, while others prefer to watch, learn, and enjoy the atmosphere. Participation is entirely up to you.

Can I visit before applying for membership?

Yes. Visitors are welcome to selected lectures and meetings by prior arrangement. Visiting is a great way to experience The Order of The Magi and see whether membership is right for you before applying.

When and where does The Order of The Magi meet?

The society usually meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at the Irish World Heritage Centre, Manchester. Meetings include lectures, club nights, competitions, practical sessions, and social events.

What kind of events do members enjoy?

Alongside our regular magic lectures and club nights, members enjoy competitions, jam nights, fundraising performances, BBQs, our Christmas Party Pub Crawl, Dealers Days, and other social activities throughout the year.

Is The Order of The Magi just about learning secrets?

Not really. While magic naturally involves secrets and methods, most members quickly discover that presentation, psychology, audience engagement, humour, timing, and performance are often far more important than simply knowing how a trick works. If you have a genuine interest in magic, you will find plenty to enjoy. If you are simply looking for secrets, you may find the reality rather different from what you imagined.

How much does membership cost?

We offer several membership categories, including town, country, student, and partner membership options, making joining one of Manchester’s oldest magic societies affordable for a wide range of people.

How do I join The Order of The Magi?

You can apply online through our membership page or download a printable application form. If you are unsure whether membership is right for you, we are always happy to answer questions or arrange a visit to one of our meetings.