Dear Magi,
It is with pride, privilege and honour that I take up the wand to begin my three year term in office as President of “The Cardiff Magical Society” - a society that has been in existence since 1954. Long may it continue!

Like you, I am nuts about magic; having begun my journey of discovery in the art as a young boy, after seeing a children's conjurer at a Christmas Party. I still remember the trick that completely fooled me... it was 'Norman's Elusive Rabbits” and, oh boy, was I 'Stung'. I remember shouting at the top of my voice “Turn them around!” and being amazed, bewildered and awed by the colour changes as he revealed the backs of the rabbits. I wanted to know how it was done and, from then on, was well and truly hooked on magic.

I started buying tricks from “Ellisdon's Emporium”, and began practising them in the confines of my bedroom until I could perform them perfectly. Later I was introduced to “The Supreme Magic Company” and “Magictrix”, spending a small fortune on equipment and books of a far better quality. At this time I started to develop a cabaret dove act, which I performed around South Wales for two years, until University beckoned.

To date, besides “The Cardiff Magical Society”, I have been a member of “The Swansea Guild of Magicians”, “The Southend Sorcerers” and “The British Ring of the International Brotherhood of Magicians”, and have been privileged to be acquainted with a few of - who I consider to be - the greats: Ken Perks, Tudor Brock, Bill Littlehales, Rovi, Eric Sharp and Roy Roth. Real magical enthusiasts who learnt their craft the hard way (no DVD's / Video's in those days) through reading and rehearsal. I still maintain that this is the best way to learn an effect, perhaps being rather old-fashioned in this respect. I believe that adapting a trick for oneself and working on an original presentation is far better than copying another performer's method. I also believe in dressing for the occasion e.g. auditions and performances. What price a clean shirt and tie, a smart pair of trousers and well-polished shoes?

So, here begins my inaugural year. I sincerely hope that I live up to your expectations and, if not, it will not be through want of trying... believe me! A society is only as good as its members though. Without you, we cannot hope to develop the CMS. I would implore all members - past and present - to support this society and make it proud. To potential new magi I extend a warm welcome and look forward to meeting you all in the very near future.

Daniel Thomas
CMS President 2011