The Magic History writings of Bernard Reid
Bernard Reid travelled the world as a professional magician and stage pickpocket, specialising in cruise ship entertainment. He was a life member of the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand and, in 2001, he was awarded the 'Grand Master of Magic' by the Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians.
As a contributor to New Zealand's magic magazine, "Magicana", Bernard developed a passionate interest in the history of New Zealand and devoted himself to the mammoth task of documenting every known magician to appear in NZ from 1855 - 1899; his work was published in 2015 as "Conjurors, Cardsharps and Conmen" by Mary Egan Publishing, in an edition of 200 copies. Presently there are no plans to re-publish this volume.
Between 2017 and 2021, he followed up with a series of four volumes creating a comprehensive history of magic in New Zealand from the founding of the country, covering the years 1900 to 1939, the 'Golden Age' of vaudeville. In 2019 he also wrote the biography of iconic NZ magician, ventriloquist and musician, Jon Zealando.
Sadly, upon Bernard's sudden passing in 2021, these books became unavailable for purchase. It is pleasing to announce that in March 2024 they are again available via the Lulu.com Bookstore where you can order hardcover or paperback versions for shipping direct to your home.
and Darling Jennie, the history of New Zealand's first professional performer; a facsimile of the booklet authored by James V. Reilly, editor of 'Magicana'. Search on 'James V. Reilly'
"The present work is the first to treat the subject exhaustively and in the context of a young developing country.
The author is to be congratulated on his assiduous, comprehensively referenced research,
which has produced this welcome and invaluable volume."
- Dr. Edwin Dawes, U.K. magic historian
which has produced this welcome and invaluable volume."
- Dr. Edwin Dawes, U.K. magic historian