Fred Kaps (1926-1980) is considered to be the greatest magician of all time. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of his death, Michel van Zeist reminds us just how special Holland’s three-time world champion of magic really was. In Fred Kaps, Master Magician he recalls memories from, among others, his daughter Barry Schatz-Bongers and his former colleague, Flip Hallema. Two prominent faces in today’s world of magic – Dutchmen Hans Kazàn and Hans Klok – share their views on Kaps and on the magic scene in general.

Loyal fans of Fred Kaps have had to wait four decades, but now his greatest secrets can finally be revealed. Michel’s biography provides an in-depth insight into the life of ‘The Johan Cruijff of Magic’. Kaps’ career, repertoire and private life are explained and discussed from different angles by people who really knew him. Discover the story behind his famous Salt Trick and why his costumes had to be midnight blue. Both amateur and professional magicians will be able to learn what to do and what not to do from the master himself.

Detailed attention is also paid to Henk Vermeyden (1908-1988). This coach and manager of magicians founded the Dutch Magic Union (NMU) and the Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques (FISM). Vermeyden was ‘The Magic Dandy’ who guided several world champions, including Fred Kaps, from his canal houses on Keizersgracht and Kloveniersburgwal in Amsterdam. Many famous magicians and illusionists, including Siegfried & Roy, came to him for advice. What tips and tricks were exchanged? Partly thanks to Vermeyden’s merits, the Netherlands was, for many years, the number one conjuring nation in the world.

With the permission of Fred Kaps’ family and unlimited access to the archives of this legend, Michel provides an exclusive look into the life and times of this unique artist: Fred Kaps, Master Magician.

Written with the cooperation of – in addition to the aforementioned – Jeff McBride, James Swain, Chris Wasshuber, Brenda & Theo Achterberg, Peter Vogel, Ronald Moray, Jan Paymans, James Schatz, Gerrit ten Cate, Véronique Ross, Tonny Eyk, Hanny Morpurgo, George Tokaya, Eric Eswin, Kobe van Herwegen, Sylvia Schuyer, Tel Smit, Hubrecht Duijker, Ton Bal, Andy Doornhein, Jordi IJzerman, Kevin Ike, Aris Smit, Angela de Zeeuw and John Eertink.

More than 250 pages and 250 photos, hardcover and in full color!

About the author

Michel van Zeist is a magician, event host and voice-over artist. He studied Communication Science at Radboud University in Nijmegen. Michel was a producer for NPO Radio 1 and had a regular slot on Radio Gelderland.