IT’S magic being a student in Huddersfield!

Students taking a drama course at the university are getting lessons in conjuring.

And they are doing so well they have been recognised by the experts.

Several of the students taking BA drama degrees have been made associate members of the Huddersfield Circle of Magicians.

It’s recognition of the work they have done with lecturer Nik Taylor.

He and the students have been working on a series of projects as part of a European research project into magic, theatre and performance.

The university’s drama department technical manager, David Wainwright, is also helping the students and Nik re-create some classic illusions from the Victorian era.

One will be a new version of the magic vanishing cabinet, used in the famous play The Will, The Witch and The Watchman, first performed in 1876.

Another will feature the Tobin and Stodare Sphinx illusion.

Mark Jordan, 46, secretary of the Huddersfield circle welcomed the students’ efforts.

He said: “The Huddersfield Circle is proud to have formed this association with the university.

“It is excellent to know the art is being recognised at this level.

“Having seen some of what Nik and his students are accomplishing, their future input into the world of magic will only serve to enhance performances in magic and illusion.”

The Huddersfield Circle – which was formed in 1949 and has 24 members, ranging in age from 15 to 82 – hosted a special evening for the students.

Nik said: “Members of the circle performed for the students and began the exciting creative process of sharing magical ideas.

“Some of our second-year students have already devised several magical spectacles.

“They have reinterpreted and re-created some of the most famous illusions, acts and personalities from the golden age of magic, including Houdini’s escapology and the legendary Indian rope trick.”