Woman who faked being a man to get into Magic Circle finally allowed in

How One Woman Fooled the Magic Circle

In 1991, Sophie Lloyd pulled off an incredible trick. She convinced the Magic Circle that she was a man. Over 30 years later, the society has apologized and reinstated her membership.

Sophie told Sky News that returning feels like "making good on something wrong." The Magic Circle now includes famous members like David Copperfield and Dynamo.

Sophie infiltrated this exclusive group by posing as a teenage boy named Raymond Lloyd. She explained, "I had played a boy before," but it took months of preparation. This was half a year before women could officially join.

The Magic Circle had a men-only rule since its founding in 1905. They believed women couldn't keep secrets. Aware of female magicians' frustrations, Sophie wanted to prove women could excel in magic too.

The idea came from magician Jenny Winstanley, who wanted to join but couldn’t. She realized the hoax would work better with a younger woman posing as a boy. Jenny met Sophie through an acting class.

To prepare for her role, they made a wig for Sophie. She also used plumpers to change her jawline. To hide her feminine hands during tricks, she wore gloves, which made sleight of hand difficult.

The biggest challenge came when she had to meet her examiner for drinks. She pretended to have laryngitis during their conversation. After passing the exam, Sophie's membership certificate arrived under Raymond's name.

In October of that year, rumors spread about opening membership to women. Sophie and Jenny decided to reveal their secret then, but it did not go well. Instead of praise, they faced anger from members and Raymond was kicked out just before women were allowed in.

Sophie recalled receiving hurtful letters after the revelation. Jenny felt snubbed by people she knew; it was painful for both of them. However, things have changed significantly since then.

Recently, the Magic Circle issued an apology and found Sophie in Spain. Sadly, Jenny passed away 20 years ago in a car crash. On Thursday, Sophie received her certificate at a special show honoring both women’s contributions to magic.

Sophie said: "Jenny was wonderful and passionate; she would have loved this."