01/03/2025
Phil Jay Performer Profile 2025
Phil Jay has been a full-time professional close-up magician since 1989, performing at over 7,000 shows across more than 50 countries. Rather than merely showcasing tricks, he presents original close-up magic in his own distinctive style—a quality that has earned him unparalleled success. His talent has led to international bookings for private and corporate clients, where he has performed alongside renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Sir Elton John, Enrique Iglesias, Status Quo, and many other top performers from around the world.
A Selection of Phil’s Clients Over the Years
Phil’s impressive client list includes HM The Queen, 3Com, 3M, Admiral Insurance, Astrium, Baker Tilly, Boss, British Telecom, British Airways, Computer Associates, Credit Trade, CBI, Deutsche Bank, Dell, Estee Lauder, Eversheds, F1 Group, Friends Provident, HSBC, Hewlett Packard, IBM, Jaguar, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Leading Hotels of the World, Luxaflex, Marks and Spencer, Mercedes-Benz, Novartis, Porsche Cars, PWC, Prudential, Siemens, Sony, Stapleford Park, The Orient Express, Ventiv Health, Vodafone, and Zurich. Phil has also entertained members of the British Royal Family, the Sultan of Brunei, numerous dignitaries, heads of state, and celebrities such as Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Tom Jones, Sir Elton John, Sir Terry Wogan, Ant and Dec, Robbie Williams, Jamie Theakston, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Andy Garcia, Marilyn Manson, Johnny Depp, and Helena Bonham Carter, among others.
Quotes from Clients and Organisation’s
"Phil, The Queen enjoyed herself immensely, which was evident as she stayed until after midnight. Your enormous talent contributed greatly to the success of the evening."
— Lady Elizabeth Anson
"We’ve all seen magicians before, but without exception, everyone commented on Phil Jay’s skill and the entertaining way he performs his illusions. Phil is in a class above all others—truly breathtaking. Guests remarked with phrases like, 'I still can’t believe my own eyes' and 'How on earth did he do that right in front of me?' These reactions stem from the professionalism Phil displayed throughout the evening. I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending him."
— Dianne J. Howarth, IBM Software, Channels Marketing Operations Manager
"Today, I’ve been inundated with congratulatory letters and notes, all mentioning you and how impressed and entertained everyone was by your act. Thank you again for a superb performance that can only be described as ‘fantastic.’ You turned a pleasant evening into a night to remember."*
— Anne Stevens, Finance Group Resource Manager, IBM
"The magic was fantastic—no one could believe what they witnessed that night, and it was the talk of the town for days afterward!"
— Ruth Kirkman, Marketing & Communications Manager, BT
"In close-up magic, Phil Jay heads the list of the top dozen in the UK. He is not only highly skilful but also the epitome of a top-class performer and an example to any aspiring magician."
— Elizabeth Warlock, The Stage trade newspaper, naming Phil Jay the top close-up magician in the UK
"After your show, as people left the theatre, the comments were overwhelmingly positive, full of praise for your showmanship and presentation. You brought so much energy and fun to your work that I was proud to have you perform at The Magic Castle. I’d be delighted to welcome you back to your many fans here soon."
— Billy McComb, Vice President, The Academy of Magical Arts, Hollywood, California, USA
Phil’s Royal Performances
Phil has performed 18 times for royal families, including engagements for HM Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at both the Golden Jubilee in November 2002 and the Diamond Jubilee in 2012. A firm favourite with the Royal Household since his first booking, Phil has been invited back to entertain HM The Queen and other members of the Royal Family on 18 occasions.
