The Royal Mile Theatre of Magic was an idea Matthew Keys had in 2019. He wanted to create a magic theatre/performance space in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, where he already regularly performed. In 2026 we launched a weekly show/experience and Fringe run. Stay tuned for our Autumn programming and other surprises.
Matthew Keys is an internationally recognised award-winning magician and member of The Magic Circle, London. Having won third place in the street performance category at FISM World Championships of Magic in Turin 2025 (some call it the Olympics of magic) he returned with a mind to developing a weekly show as he prepares to compete in South Korea in 2028. The Royal Mile Theatre of Magic is the beginning of that journey.
The Venue
After a few delays, global events and the arrival of a child, he found the perfect new venue at The Pend. Working in collaboration with the team at The Pend, he aims to develop a world class magic show and offer the space and support for the fantastic community of local magicians, as well as visiting magicians, to also share their magic.
Built to be open, accessible and welcoming, The Pend brings together local creatives, international collaborators and CODE guests under one roof. It’s a space where Edinburgh’s stories meet global perspectives,and where new ideas are given room to breathe. Find out more
Awards and Career Highlights
Matthew Keys is an internationally recognised award-winning magician and member of The Magic Circle, London. Having won third place in the street performance category at FISM World Championships of Magic in Turin 2025 (some call it the Olympics of magic) he returned with a mind to developing a weekly show as he prepares to compete in South Korea in 2028. The Royal Mile Theatre of Magic is the beginning of that journey.
He has also been hired by both the BBC and Amazon Prime as a magic consultant. He used his expertise to train and advise actors, as well as appearing as a card cheat character in Good Omens 3 (Amazon Prime 2026) alongside David Tennant, Sean Pertwee, Mark Addy and Bilal Hasna.
When not performing, he’s usually found in a field, beach or wood with his son, partner and dog.
The Royal Mile Theatre of Magic is run and owned by Pystri Ltd.*
*Pystri is the Cornish word for magic. Matthew is originally from SE Cornwall.