The Secret World of Charles Dickens: Mirth, Marvels and the Mysterious March 13, 2012

The Secret World of Charles Dickens, presented by Ian Keable, celebrates the bicentennial of the birth of Charles Dickens from an unusual and intriguing stance: Charles Dickens was also a gifted amateur magician.

Ian explores the writer’s love of magic through his books, numerous articles and letters – all of which throw an unexpected light on his fascinating personality. He also revives tricks that Dickens is known to have done.

In addition, the show focuses on Dickens’s sceptical fascination in spiritualism. Dickens is very amusing about spiritualists in general and his caustic wit shines through. Ian performs some spiritualist-type stunts which convinced many of Dickens’ contemporaries of the authenticity of mediums.

This is a hilarious and mystical show which will appeal to anybody: even if you’ve never read a word of Dickens!