Al’s magic touch pays off

Mar 21 2008 by Henryk Zientek, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Al’s magic touch pays off

COMEDIAN Al Conway worked his magic to win a regional award.

The Lindley-based entertainer was named Yorkshire Comedy Magician of the Year at a competition at the Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster.

Al represented Huddersfield Magic Circle in the competition against six other entrants from branches of the Magic Circle across the region, including Doncaster, Hull, Leeds and Harrogate.

He impressed judges with a 10-minute routine involving close-up magic, paper-tearing and a steady string of one-line gags.

The 62-year-old professional comedian is a familiar face on the after-dinner circuit, entertaining at such events as golf club dinners.

In a career spanning 30 years he has completed summer seasons in Blackpool, Bridlington and Skegness, entertained British forces overseas, supported top stage acts such as The Three Degrees and The Drifters and performed in cabaret.

He is a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. He appeared on TV’s New Faces in 1988 and has performed magic at Buckingham Palace.

Said Al: “It’s the first award I have won for probably 20 years. It’s nice to get the recognition; it will help to keep business coming in!”