- Jonathan Royle appointed Public Relations and Entertainments Officer
- The Order of the Magi is one of England’s oldest magic societies, founded in 1909
- Royle brings nearly 50 years of performance and industry experience
- Upcoming events calendar to be published in the coming weeks
A Rochdale-based magician has taken on two senior roles at one of England’s longest-running magical societies, marking a notable moment for both the performer and the organisation.
Dual Appointment at a Historic Society
Jonathan Royle has been elected as both Public Relations Officer and Entertainments Officer at The Order of the Magi.
Based in Rochdale, Royle steps into the roles at a time when the society continues to balance tradition with a modern programme of events.
Founded in 1909 in Manchester, The Order of the Magi is widely regarded as England’s third oldest magical society. It has maintained an uninterrupted record of monthly meetings and its members-only publication since its inception.
A Lifelong Career in Magic
Royle, aged 50 and originally from Heywood, brings decades of experience to the position. His career began at the age of three, performing as “Flap the Clown” with Gandey’s Circus in 1978.
Over the years, he has developed an international profile as a magician, mind reader, hypnotist, author, and consultant. His early achievements include publishing his first book, Original Magic, at 16 and becoming the top-selling Marvin’s Magic demonstrator in England during the 1991 Christmas season.
Personal Connection to the Society
“I am delighted to take on these roles within such a historic and respected society,” said Royle.
“The Order of the Magi has played an important part in my own journey, as I first attended a meeting back in 1987 at the age of 12 which I was taken to by Heywood resident The Late Police Seargent Jack Griggs who that same year had just been made a Fellow of the Order and was my Magical Mentor for many years.
It’s an honour to now help shape its future while preserving its proud traditions.”
Career Highlights and Recognition
Royle’s career includes a number of notable milestones. In 2004, he gained national attention following a high-risk underwater escape involving restraints, which led to him being described as “The New Houdini”.
More recently, in 2017, he received multiple awards from The Order of the Magi, including Best Cabaret Magic Act, Best Close-Up Performance, and Best Card Trick.
Alongside performance work, he has contributed to the wider magic community through lectures and published training materials. He has previously lectured for the society and is scheduled to return as a guest lecturer in February 2027.
Continuing a Strong Tradition
The Order of the Magi has evolved from informal gatherings of early 20th-century magicians into a structured organisation that supports both amateur and professional performers.
Now meeting twice monthly at the Irish World Heritage Centre in Cheetham Hill, the society hosts lectures, competitions, and performances that reflect both heritage and innovation in the magical arts.
As part of his new responsibilities, Royle has confirmed that a full calendar of upcoming events will be published on the society’s official website in the coming weeks.
Final Magical Thoughts
The appointment reflects both continuity and renewal within one of the country’s longest-standing magic societies. With an established performer now overseeing public engagement and events, attention turns to how the organisation will build on its legacy while maintaining its consistent programme.
