Blog

The Hat & Rabbit blog is a window into the heart of the club. From recaps of memorable events and visiting lecturers to member-written articles and book reviews by David Sutherland. This is where we reflect and share. Whether you were in the room or missed the night, there’s always something here to spark curiosity and keep the magic alive and the story going. 

Chris Philpott October Lecture

Chris Philpott captivated Ring 17 with magic, storytelling, and legendary club tales, inspiring magicians to add deeper meaning and creativity to their craft.

Michel Huot September Lecture

Michel Huot wowed Ring 17 with creative magic, clever effects, and engaging storytelling, blending humor and skill in an unforgettable September lecture.

Ring 17 Honors Black History Month

Ring 17 honored Black History Month with Dr. Kenrick “Ice” McDonald, showcasing The Quiet Masters and sharing powerful stories of Black magicians despite a fierce winter storm.

David goes to Hollywood

David’s whirlwind LA trip checked three magic bucket list items: The Magic Castle, John Gaughan’s workshop, and Mike Caveney’s Egyptian Hall collection—an unforgettable journey through magic history and performance.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND THE UNCANNY SCOT RON WILSON BY RICHARD KAUFMAN

David Sutherland reviews The Uncanny Scot by Ron Wilson, highlighting classic, powerful magic routines and urging magicians to rediscover treasures in their own books.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND VARIATIONS REVISITED BY EARL NELSON

David Sutherland reviews Variations Revisited by Earl Nelson, praising its clear, deliberate magic and urging magicians to rediscover hidden gems in their own libraries.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND CARNEYCOPIA IS BACK IN PRINT!!

David Sutherland celebrates Carneycopia by Stephen Minch, now back in print—a detailed, masterful collection of John Carney’s sleight-of-hand magic and philosophy.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND TOTALLY OUT OF CONTROL BY CHRIS KENNER IS BACK IN PRINT!!

David Sutherland reviews Totally Out of Control by Chris Kenner, now back in print—a brilliant collection of creative, practical magic, including many effects linked to David Copperfield’s legacy.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND GARY KURTZ: UNEXPLAINABLE ACTS BY RICHARD KAUFMAN

David Sutherland reviews Gary Kurtz: Unexplainable Acts by Richard Kaufman, praising its unique, artistic magic and urging magicians to rediscover this powerful, inspiring work.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND IMPOSSIBILIA BY JOHN BANNON

David Sutherland reviews Impossibilia by John Bannon, praising its elegant, well-constructed magic routines and emphasizing the power of thoughtful presentation and silence in performance.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND THEATRICAL CLOSE-UP BY PETER SAMELSON

David Sutherland reviews Theatrical Close-Up by Peter Samelson, praising its artistic magic, powerful routines, and deep theatrical insight that elevate close-up performance to true art.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND THE COMMERCIAL MAGIC OF J.C. WAGNER BY MIKE MAXWELL

David Sutherland reviews The Commercial Magic of J.C. Wagner by Mike Maxwell, highlighting its strong card and coin routines, practical effects, and urging magicians to explore its valuable, classic material.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND WILLIAMSON’S WONDERS IS BACK IN PRINT!!!

David Sutherland reviews Williamson’s Wonders by Richard Kaufman, celebrating David Williamson’s masterful sleight of hand and innovative routines, now back in print and a must-have for magic lovers.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND TOP SECRET STUFF BY MICHAEL POWERS

David Sutherland reviews Top Secret Stuff by Michael Powers, highlighting its clever card and coin effects, practical routines, and recommending it for intermediate to advanced magicians seeking strong, classic magic.

An 80 Year Overview of I.B.M. Ring 17

“The Legacy” — an 80-year history of Toronto’s I.B.M. Ring 17 magic club, spotlighting pioneer Sid Lorraine’s influential contributions to the magic world.

BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND THE CHARLATAN’S HANDBOOK BY SID FLEISCHMAN

David Sutherland reviews The Charlatan’s Handbook by Sid Fleischman, highlighting its rich blend of magic, humor, and detailed presentations, urging magicians to rediscover this classic treasure.

DON ENGLAND’S PARADOX BOOK REVIEW BY DAVID SUTHERLAND

David Sutherland reviews Don England’s Paradox by Kevin Kelly, highlighting its inventive coin and card effects, clever gaffs, and strong endorsements from magic legends, urging magicians to seek out this out-of-print gem.

Under the Hat - Episode Seven with Ken Scott

Ken Scott, former IBM president and four-time Atlanta Magician of the Year, shares insights on magic, creativity, improv, and trust in episode seven of Under the Hat.

September 2022 Ring Report

September’s meeting kicked off with Jeff Hinchliffe’s stunning magic lecture, blending history, mind tricks, and jaw-dropping card illusions.

September Lecture

September’s lecture switched last minute to Jeff Hinchliffe, delivering mind-blowing magic, history, and celebration with members at a great venue.

Under the Hat - Episode Six with Steve Cohen

Steve Cohen shares insights on Max Malini, magic’s depth, audience connection, psychology, and why every effect deserves a memorable finish.

September 2022 Update

September update shares summer reflections, upcoming events including big lectures, new membership rates, and a call to join the magic community this season.

Under the Hat - Episode Five with Jeff and Tessa Evason

Latest episode with Jeff and Tessa Evason dives into first impressions, trust, mentalism’s rhythm, setting boundaries, act tuning, silence, and the need for a plan B.

April News

April’s virtual meeting featured David Parr sharing childhood-inspired magic, thoughtful tips, and hilarious Eugene Burger stories that kept the group entertained and inspired.

Under the Hat - Episode Four with Jeff McBride

Latest episode with Jeff McBride covers mentorship, Channing Pollock, magician blind spots, relationship building, handling mistakes, and his Mystery School classes.

Under the Hat - Episode Three with Larry Hass

Listen in on episode number 3 as David and Larry talk about Eugene Burger’s new book, his life’s work and why wonder and friendship are clearly entwined.

We did it… With An Extra Helping of Magic

Our 2nd annual virtual magic fundraiser raised over $4,000 for Daily Bread Food Bank, with amazing performances from more than a dozen members. Watch the replay!

Hat and Rabbit Club Charity Show 2021

Last year’s fundraiser raised $7,000 for cancer research. This year, the Hat & Rabbit Club is back with a pre-recorded magic show to support Toronto’s Daily Bread Food Bank.

Under the Hat - Episode Two with Alex Zander

Listen in to Episode one of Under The Hat as we talk about magic, mystery and wonder, touring, generosity and giving back, passion and purpose and a new film project called Lost in The Shuffle.

Welcome Back

David Peck, longtime member and president, reflects on the Hat & Rabbit Club’s rich history, exciting plans for the 80th anniversary, and the welcoming magic community ahead.

Under the Hat - Episode One with James Alan

Listen in as James Alan and David Peck talk about the history of Ring 17, mystery and wonder, the centre tear and why magic matters.

Welcome to a new season

The Hat & Rabbit Club’s new season is here! Membership registration is open, now valid for 12 months from signup with optional automatic renewals at the same price.

Thank You and Club Update

Thank you for sharing your survey feedback! Exciting new events are planned for the season starting in September with a fresh board leading the way.

Help Us Shape Upcoming Programming

Help shape the Hat & Rabbit Club’s upcoming programs by taking a quick survey. Enter for a chance to win a $50 Amazon.ca gift card. We value your input!

Ring 17 Honors Black History Month

For Black History Month, Dr. Kenrick “Ice” McDonald joined Ring 17 to showcase The Quiet Masters, highlighting the rich history and stories of Black magicians, sparking inspiring conversations despite a fierce winter storm.