Malcolm Russell
amazing magician. remarkable man.
ENGAGING, INSPIRING AND ENDLESSLY WATCHABLE
“He has the most important things:
personality, originality and timing.”
– M Nishizaka, event producer, Japan
MALCOLM RUSSELL – MAGICIAN
So now you’re curious!
Who exactly am I?
My name’s Malcolm Russell and I’m a magician.
But you figured that much out on your own, didn’t you, you smart cookie!
I live near Calgary, Alberta, and I perform around the city and across Alberta, B.C. and Saskatchewan, mostly, but I go wherever people are in desperate need of really, really good entertainment.
I do two different types of magic: firstly, close-up ‘strolling’ magic (also called walkabout magic, mix-and-mingle magic, or table magic); and secondly, stand-up stage shows where I perform a proper show in front of a seated audience (think fundraiser shows, school shows, corporate Christmas dinners, community awards nights, street festivals, private house parties, engagement/anniversary parties and the like.)
In other words, if you’ve got an event coming up chances are I’ve got something that’ll work perfectly for you. A wedding? Sure. Fundraiser show? Certainly. Funeral? Why not. I’ve done those before. My job is to bring people together, break the ice, make people laugh, get them excited, make them wonder.
“But HOW? And WHY?”
I’m insatiably curious. I figure:
1. the world is unbelievably fascinating,
2. people are nice,
3. we’re all going to die eventually, and
4. there’s too much to learn and see and try and experience to fit into one lifetime, but dammit, I’m going to do my best.
It’s thrilling to share with audiences the wierd and wonderful skills and stories that have come my way, and piece by piece those things seep into my performances. People say I’m ‘engaging’, and that’s really my goal – to bridge the gap between performer and audience and to have people leave my shows feeling that they’ve seen the impossible, felt enthusiasm, shared a sense of excitement and amazement, had a fun night out and even – I hope – made a new friend.
“He’s one of the delightful few who can capture the attention of an audience and keep them endlessly interested in what’s happening, from small groups to audiences of thousands.” – R. Jameson, Royal Bank of Scotland
If you’ve never seen me live, try coming for a meal at the Earls restaurant in Westhills (Stewart Green SW) in Calgary. I perform table magic for guests most Friday and Saturday nights from 5~8pm. You’re welcome to email or text me beforehand to make sure I’ll be there on the night as my performing schedule frequently takes me away on weekends.
SHOWS AND PERFORMANCES
Close-up strolling magic
Pure sleight-of-hand entertainment under the closest scrutiny! Malcolm brings your guests together, breaks the ice and energizes the atmosphere in the room. Your guests are guaranteed to have a wonderful time and leave with lasting memories of a fascinating night. Ideal for mix-and-mingle events, wedding receptions, busy parties and dinner occasions – anywhere that you have people socializing!
The Malcolm Russell Show
Malcolm’s polished routines, dry wit and ready banter make him a huge hit with audiences. His interactive comedy sleight-of-hand show is tailored to the audience of the day, whether it’s families, schoolkids or an all-adult group.
The Cabinet of Curiosities
Malcolm weaves a tale of spycraft, intrigue and psychology in this fascinating adult show. What mysteries lie within the Cabinet of Curiosities? There’s only one way to find out! A smart show for sophisticated audiences, delving into the world of mentalism (mind-reading) and psychological influence, predictions and offbeat magic.
Parker Doodlebug
Eccentric inventor and creator Parker Doodlebug is here to bring the 1870s back to life without the smelly bits. Having created the world’s first true panacea – Parker Doodlebug’s Patented Snake Oil Liniment – he is eager to demonstrate its properties to the world through magic, juggling and comedy. The only problem is that no one seems to believe him! Join him as he introduces you to mysteries and dubious technology from the future past!
Not From Around Here
What could be better than one world-class magician? TWO world class magicians! Malcolm Russell is joined by Japanese sensation Atsushi Ono for a clever and hilarious two-man performance ideal for more theatrical venues and events. Their onstage chemistry, quirky humour and energy make this a highly original show, and an audience favourite. They can also be joined by third teammate comedian Barry ‘Da Newfie MC’ Crane, whose friendly energy and offbeat sense of humour will have tears running down your cheeks.
“BLEW MY EXPECTATIONS OUT OF THE WATER.” – Glenbow Museum
"IMPECCABLE AS A MAGICIAN, SHOWMAN AND ARTIST, PLUS A GENUINELY LOVELY BLOKE"
Keep in touch!
“He treats every person he interacts with as if they are the only person in the room, completely drawing you in and engaging your full attention. His magic is fabulous of course, but his delivery makes it all the more classy and memorable.”
– M. M., Worley Parsons
Send me a message right now! I'd love to hear from you. (Please include a phone number just in case.)
WHAT AM I UP TO? Like a blog without the word ‘blog’.
Wedding time
I recently got an email with a handful of wonderful photos taken of me performing at a wedding last autumn. It's surprisingly rare to get good pictures of me working, so these are a real treat! I was invited to perform for the wedding guests as they mingled before the...
Honens piano competition with Jon Kimura Parker
Another real treat recently. My friend Jenn works with the Honens International Piano Competition and they wanted something...different...as part of their VIP donor appreciation nights. Long story short, I got to work with the marvellous Jon Kimura Parker, one of the...
Magic with Alan Doyle
A week or so ago I was at home trying to install some kitchen cabinets and swearing a lot when a text message came through from a friend of mine, Fiona. She was spending the day with the wonderful Alan Doyle (formerly of Great Big Sea) and they were having coffee just...