www.russstokes.co.uk
www.magic4kids.co.uk

Not too long ago, Russ used to work as a salesman. A surprise trip to Las Vegas was to change everything.

While on the trip, Russ found himself spenting most of his free time in Houdini’s Magic Store at the MGM Grand hotel. He returned to England with a new great enthusiasm for magic and after mastering a few basic effects, began using magic in his sales presentations. A career change was predictable when clients began remembering Russ for his magic rather than the products he was selling!

He began to realise that magic was becoming his life and where his future career lay. Seeking out the magic community, he went on to study at magic's prestigious ‘Five of Hearts Studio' under Colin Rose who he met by pure luck. This entailed him travelling over 100 miles to each lesson for over a year. Sharron, Colin's wife and assistant says, "Even though he was new to magic, his dedication and hard work really paid off. I can see Russ becoming a star."

When not wearing his business suit, Russ can be found in a coat of many colours entertaining children with his partner, Dave the Wonder Dog! "The kids love Dave!" says Russ, "Dave is often asked for by name when parents book their parties".

Through determination and dedication, Russ has managed to make a complete career change successfully and is now a full-time professional magician performing close-up, cabaret and children's magic. His quick smile and easy attitude make him an attractive prospect and well-loved by his audiences. He says, "I love to laugh but more importantly, I love to make people laugh".

He is a member of the British Magical Society, The International Brotherhood of Magicians and The Wolverhampton Circle of Magicians.

Russ's commercial background in business and sales gives him an edge when asked to magically present a products on behalf of corporate clients who have included Disney, UCI, The Time-Warner Group, O2, MacDonalds Restaurants, Hilton Hotels Group, De Vere Group, Bloomberg, Price Cooper Waterhouse, Asda, HSBC and Macmillan Cancer Relief.