Matthew Garrett – Magician & Wedding Host Close-up magic, wedding hosting & after-dinner cabaret shows for all events

I am completely self-contained and require no special technical facilities. Close-up magic can be performed almost anywhere, and for my stage shows I bring everything needed for the performance.

Just let me know the location, event timings and approximate guest numbers.
I can adapt my performances to virtually any venue, from intimate private functions to large corporate events.

Yes, I provide my own professional sound equipment for stage shows and wedding hosting. Additional lighting can also be arranged if required, with advance notice. Close-up magic requires neither sound nor lighting equipment.

I'm extremely versatile! Close-up magic requires no dedicated performance space, as I mingle amongst guests. My stage shows can be adapted to suit anything from a small, intimate performance area to a large theatre stage.

I've been fortunate to perform at some extraordinary events around the world, including the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai.

One of the most exciting was an Emirates anniversary celebration in Abu Dhabi, where I performed a solo 20-minute show in front of 20,000 people, broadcast live on television, followed by a live interview! Quite an experience when you're standing on stage entirely on your own!

Perhaps my most unforgettable was a private VIP New Year's Eve party for Mohammed Alabbar at The Address Hotel in Dubai. It was an incredibly exclusive occasion, entertaining billionaires just metres from the television crews filming Dubai's famous New Year's Eve fireworks. However, it was also the night the hotel caught fire, making international headlines and appearing on Sky News! Thankfully, I was completely safe, but what started as one of the most glamorous engagements of my career became one of the most surreal experiences imaginable. Certainly a New Year's Eve I'll never forget!

My favourite events are simply those with lovely people! I'm very much a people person, and what I enjoy most is seeing genuine reactions, laughter and amazement.

Whether it's an intimate family celebration, a wedding, a corporate function or a Christmas party, I'm equally at home. For me, it's not about how grand the occasion is, but about making sure everyone has a wonderful time.

I started performing professionally at just 12 years old and was fortunate to be mentored by Richard Stupple, a former Chairman of The Magic Circle.

Since then, I've performed at over 3,000 events worldwide, winning The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year competition and becoming a member of The Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star.

Magic has taken me around the world. This year alone, I've performed in Italy, Turkey, France, Spain, Ireland and England. Previously, I completed a nine-date lecture tour of Norway and a 17-state performance tour of the USA.

Despite all the international adventures, I still thoroughly enjoy performing at local weddings, private parties and corporate events. After all these years, creating those magical moments for people is still what I love most.

What sets me apart is a lifetime dedicated to magic as an art, rather than simply learning a few tricks!

I performed my first paid show at 12 and have spent decades mastering magic, particularly the demanding technical skills of sleight of hand.

I'm a former winner of The Magic Circle Close-Up Magician of the Year, one of the UK's most prestigious magic awards, and a finalist in The Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year competition. I'm also a member of The Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star.

I'm not just a performer; I also invent original magic used by fellow professionals. My expertise covers close-up magic, stage performances, mentalism and advanced sleight of hand.

With over 3,000 performances worldwide, I bring genuine, internationally recognised credentials, exceptional technical ability and the experience to adapt to any audience.

Above all, great magic is about people. My aim is always to create laughter, amazement and unforgettable memories.

Yes £10 million Public Liability Insurance

For close-up magic, I normally arrive around 30 minutes early for peace of mind, although no setup is required. I'm ready to perform the moment I walk through the door!

For stage shows, I generally arrive at least 30 minutes beforehand, or earlier if equipment needs setting up before guests arrive.

Performance times are completely flexible, from short appearances to several hours of close-up entertainment or a full stage show. Everything can be tailored to your event.

Absolutely! I'm happy to perform outdoors, weather permitting. My stage shows are completely self-contained, with battery-powered sound equipment available where required.

Close-up magic also works wonderfully outdoors, although very cold temperatures can make intricate sleight of hand difficult.

As long as conditions are reasonable and there's suitable shelter from heavy rain or extreme weather, outdoor performances are no problem at all.

My five-star Google reviews speak for themselves! Clients regularly describe my performances as incredible, entertaining, professional and genuinely astonishing.

I'm particularly proud of the comments about my ability to engage guests, create laughter and leave audiences completely baffled.

Many clients book me again for future events, which I consider one of the greatest compliments. Whether it's an intimate celebration or a major corporate function, I always aim to deliver a world-class performance that people remember long afterwards.

Absolutely! Every event is different, and I tailor my performances to suit the audience, occasion and atmosphere.

From relaxed close-up magic at weddings to sophisticated corporate entertainment, family celebrations and large stage shows, I can adapt both the material and presentation.

For corporate events and exhibitions, I can also incorporate company messages, products or branding into bespoke magic routines, making the entertainment both memorable and relevant to your business.

Popular times include the drinks reception, around tables between courses during a meal and the early evening. Close-up magic is particularly effective during natural gaps in the day because it keeps guests entertained without interrupting the wedding schedule.
Shows are best suited after desserts / coffee