You should have working knowledge of Houdini before enrolling in this. The most famous magician and illusionist of modern times, Houdinis own first-hand accounts of his many famous exploits, recounted by Walter. The QI regular also has a look at David Copperfield's priceless collection of Houdini artefacts in Las Vegas. This course will show you all the steps involved in setting up an Avalanche Magic Smoke. To understand why the master magician felt compelled to perform his death-defying acts, Alan volunteers to hold his breath under ice-cold water, lie on a bed of nails and be hung upside down in a straitjacket. Located in the mysterious Castle district of Budapest in a majestic location, just a hundred meters from the Royal Palace. In this first episode, Jonathan Creek star Alan Davies explores the extraordinary life of escapologist Harry Houdini who, against the odds, became one of the world's most successful entertainers. The House of Houdini in Budapest, Hungary, is the premier meeting point for magicians and lovers of the art of magic from all over the world. More familiar faces offer their take on subjects that fascinate them. Now in its fourth year, the strand will encompass six films from a rich variety of distinctive individuals offering their take on subjects for which they have a personal enthusiasm and fascination.

The Perspectives documentary strand brings together powerful stories and unique insights into the arts from a range of well-known figures.

Published by ITV broadcasted as part of ITV Perspectives series Arts, Biography Documentary hosted by Alan Davies,

Magic of houdini