Alan Watson

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my privilege to speak about a true icon in the world of magic – Alan Watson QSM.

Alan Scott Watson was born in Wellington on 26 November 1950 to Betty (born Pierce) and Bob.

Alan, alongside his wife Michele and his family, has enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning decades. Once one of the busiest teams in show business, they seamlessly moved from children’s parties to corporate stages and restaurants—all in a single day. That versatility has been a cornerstone of their success.

Alan’s unique combination of showmanship, marketing expertise, and technical skill has set him apart. His innovation and professionalism have broken records, set new standards, and gained him international recognition.

Over the years, Alan has brought his magic to countless audiences across New Zealand and beyond. He performed more than 1,400 nights over five and half years at Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant, and spent 11 years amazing guests at Waipuna Hotel’s Wellingtons Restaurant. He was also been the resident magician over a number of years at popular places like Hugos and Bronco’s restaurants.

For 26 years, Alan was the resident magician at Rainbow’s End, New Zealand’s largest theme park—entertaining generations of families. Over that period he was also the resident magician for The Pavillion of New Zealand, Auckland Lion Safari Park and Foot Rock Flats.

In 1987, Alan and Michele made history as the first Kiwi close-up magicians to perform at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, proudly promoting New Zealand on an international stage. Alan’s career has also taken him abroad with performances in Australia, Fiji, the USA, and Vanuatu—showing that his magic truly knows no borders.

Alan’s accolades are as impressive as his performances. He’s a Member of The Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star—the highest degree of the Magic Circle in London, UK. In 2006, he received both New Zealand’s prestigious Benny Award and the Grand Master of Magic Award. Internationally, he and Michele were honoured with the DRAGON Award in 2002 in New York.

In 2015, Alan received the Award of Merit from the Academy of Magical Arts in the USA and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. Most recently, in 2025, Alan received the Milbourne Christopher Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award in Connecticut, USA—widely regarded as one of the highest honours a magician can receive worldwide.

Alan’s contributions extend beyond performance. He’s been a leader, mentor, and passionate advocate for the magic community. Alan founded the world’s first online graphical magic bulletin board and published the globally-read Magic New Zealand e-zine, connecting over 17,000 magicians in 78 countries each week for 25 years.

In 2015, Alan received the Queen’s Service Medal for his services as a magician—a testament not only to his talent but to his generosity and impact.

More than the awards, Alan’s proudest moments come from helping others—uplifting fellow magicians and giving back to the community he loves.

Alan Watson isn’t just a Grand Master of Magic—he’s a master of connection, creativity, and contribution. We celebrate not just his achievements, but the inspiration he continues to provide to magicians around the world.

If you’d like to learn more about Alan’s amazing magical journey, check out his full bio at: www.watson.co.nz/biography.html

And for a full list of his extensive awards and achievements, go to:

www.watson.co.nz/accolades.html