Fay Presto, Queen of Close-up, Documentary

This is a portrait documentary about the legendary Fay Presto; the UK’s most in-demand close-up and cabaret magician who would rather die on stage than quit performing. Influencing hundreds of magicians and making way for women in the magic world, Fay’s humour and brilliance has led her to perform for the Queen on six separate occasions as well as doing private magic shows in countless of celebrities’ homes.

This short documentary reflects on Fay’s everyday life as a magician and, at age 70, an older woman in a youth obsessed entertainment industry. It touches upon gender roles and ageing, shows the struggle of earning a living as a performer, and, through her memories, gives us a glimpse into the glamorous days of the London 80s.


Directed by Hanna Aqvilin
www.aqvilin.com