In a surprising turn of events, a woman who managed to deceive her way into the male-only Magic Circle is finally being granted membership, 34 years after her initial expulsion. Sophie Lloyd, the magician behind the scheme, confessed to masquerading as a man named Raymond Lloyd in order to gain entry into the elite society back in 1991, a time when women were barred from becoming members.
Ms. Lloyd’s elaborate plan was hatched with her friend Jenny Winstanley, who was disheartened by the gender restrictions imposed by the Magic Circle. Deciding to take matters into their own hands, the pair concocted a plan for Ms. Lloyd to assume a male persona and infiltrate the society. Despite the risks involved, Ms. Lloyd diligently prepared for two years, honing her magic skills and crafting the persona of Raymond Lloyd, a youthful and unassuming character.
The clandestine operation culminated in Ms. Lloyd successfully duping the Magic Circle’s examiners during a performance at a working men’s club, ultimately securing her membership to the exclusive society. However, when news broke that the Magic Circle was on the cusp of admitting female magicians, Ms. Lloyd and Ms. Winstanley decided to reveal their deception to the press. This revelation led to Ms. Lloyd’s expulsion in October 1991 at the same meeting where female magicians were welcomed into the fold.
Despite the fallout from her actions, Ms. Lloyd continued to pursue a career in magic for a decade before retiring to Spain. Recently, the Magic Circle embarked on a search to locate Ms. Lloyd, seeking to acknowledge her contribution and recognize her as a trailblazer for women in magic. In a fitting tribute to her late friend Jenny Winstanley, Ms. Lloyd has decided to rejoin the Magic Circle, embracing her rightful place as a member in honor of their shared legacy
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