Kiwi magician awarded star on New Zealand Walk of Fame

New Zealand magician Alan Watson has been honoured with a star on the New Zealand Walk of Fame in Ōrewa, recognising his four-decade career and outstanding service to the international magic community.

The star was unveiled on Sunday, November 23, timed to coincide with Watson’s 75th birthday celebrations.

Watson who frequently performing alongside his wife Michele, has performed in New Zealand and abroad for more than 45 years. His career includes performances at Fisherman’s Wharf, Waipuna Hotel and a 26-year residency at Rainbow’s End. In 1987, Alan and Michele became the first New Zealand close-up magicians to perform at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, helping introduce Kiwi magic to an international audience.

Watson’s global recognition includes honours from the Academy of Magical Arts in Los Angeles, the Magic Circle in London, and earlier this year, the Milbourne Christopher Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award in the United States.

In addition to his stage career, Watson has published the Magic New Zealand e-zine for the past 25 years, connecting more than 17,000 magicians in 78 countries. In 2015 he was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for his services to magic.

New Zealand Walk of Fame chair, Gary Brown, says Watson’s star recognises a performer who has shaped generations of entertainers.

“Alan Watson has brought joy, wonder and inspiration to audiences for decades. His contribution to magic – both onstage and in the global community – is immense. His star is a fitting tribute to a truly remarkable career.”

At the unveiling ceremony, David Hartnell presented Watson with two significant international honours;

A Society of American Magicians Proclamation from the National Council, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to magic and marking the star unveiling; and a Presidential Citation from the International President, recognising his long-standing influence and dedication to advancing the art of magic.

More on Alan Watson’s career can be found at: www.watson.co.nz/biography.html