The impact and aftermath of the covid pandemic on trading conditions has resulted in the closure of the Houdini’s Magic Bar in Broadstairs.
Houdini’s Magic Bar was founded by Sam and Claudette Watson in 2016 in Broadstairs with a second in Canterbury opening in 2018.
Customers were able to drink, relax and unwind while watching different kinds of live magic by some of the finest magicians in the country.
Since opening Houdini’s have not only entertained thousands of people, including Derren Brown and Jamie Raven, but have won some numerous awards for their unique concept, experience and high customer service. The Kent Life Food and Drink awards resulting in them scooping a win three years consecutively.
But the pair say they have to close the Broadstairs site and concentrate on their Canterbury venue due to tough trading conditions.
In a message on their facebook page they say: “It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our Broadstairs venue, our first Magic home. We’ve seen people come to us for first dates and proposals then return to us after they’ve been married! We’ve introduced people to Magic, gained so many friends, and extended our family.
“Since Covid, it just hasn’t been the same, and although we’ve given it our best, it’s time to move on and pour our love into Canterbury.
“We love all of you, you’ve really made Broadstairs magic for us the past 7 years. We hope that we will see your beautiful faces in Canterbury where you can join us for everything Houdini’s, there are exciting things coming!
Until we find a new location for our next venue, we will see you in the city.”
Sam is an award-winning magician who founded the Black Card Club and is a member of the Magic Circle – with an associate of the Inner Magic Circle with silver status for his services to magic.
He started performing magic at the age of 11 after falling in love with the art when watching Paul Daniels on TV every Saturday night and then a magic set for Christmas kicked off his serious interest.
He was picked to perform at the House of illusion in Salou, Spain when he was just 17 and performed as an illusionist every night for a season. On his return he was one of Kent’s busiest performers working at weddings and corporate events.
It was Sam’s dream to own a magic bar, and when wife Claudette saw the location in Broadstairs High Street they went for it despite having no bar experience.
The Canterbury venue in St Peters Street remains open.
