Born in 1911, Calvert still tours and performs his elaborate stage magic show that is reminiscent of the touring shows of the 1930's at the height of Thurston and Blackstone. In fact, Calvert’s show is not just reminiscent, he actually toured during that era. And magic is only a portion of this intriguing magician’s rich and wide-spanning career.
John Calvert has performed magic for an astounding 80 years, which includes Broadway and countries around the world. For a time, he piloted his own plane that carried his props and crew and was an active yachtsman who survived some dangerous situations. Today, Calvert still tours the country in his motor home (which he drives).
With his dashing good looks and natural acting abilities, Calvert had roles in some 40 movies in the forties and fifties and worked with famous stars such as Danny Kaye, Gary Cooper and more. Most notably, Calvert starred in three films as “The Falcon, a detective.
A documentary, “John Calvert: His Magic and Adventures,” which is available on DVD, presents the magician’s varied and interesting life, as well as shows entertaining excerpts from his theatrical magic act.
The film is well organized and offers interesting interviews with Calvert and his wife and assistant Tammy and more. I found it particularly interesting to view footage of Calvert today touring and setting up his show in theaters and working with crews.
Calvert’s cumulative experiences are awe-inspiring and he’s a fantastic and entertaining magician. If anything, the film leaves you wanting more. For a look at this unique and fascinating magician, I highly recommend his documentary.
Of note, Calvert is booked to play at the Palladium in London on Aug. 5, 2011 on his 100th birthday.
