AL KORAN
(1917 – 1972)The Gentleman Mentalist Who Redefined Mind Reading
A Life of Mystery Begins
Al Koran was born Edward C. Doe on 4 March 1914 in London's East End. His parents, Charles Edward and Lois Heckman, raised him in modest circumstances.
Before becoming one of the most respected mentalists of his era, Koran started out as a barber. However, magic soon pulled him in and changed his path.
Like many performers of his time, his early steps into magic were humble. Yet they were deeply formative.
At first, he assisted a street performer named "Pins" Draper in Petticoat Lane. There, he learned classic tricks like the Cups and Balls.
Meanwhile, Draper lent him magic books by Professor Hoffmann and others. These sparked Koran’s fascination and laid the foundation for his future in mentalism.
From Card Trickster to Royal Performer
Koran quickly gained a reputation for his expert sleight of hand, especially in card magic. His sharp card stab routine fooled even seasoned magicians. At just 16, he lied about his age to join The Magician's Club. Later, he received the Gold Medal from The London Society of Magicians. Some say he was only 16 at the time, while others claim he was 29.
Soon after, Koran began performing in clubs and theatres. From there, he moved on to prestigious events. He became known as "The Fantastic Koran—the World's Greatest Mind Reader."
He appeared at the London Palladium and wowed audiences that included Sir Winston Churchill and Princess Grace of Monaco. He also performed for British royalty, including Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. In total, his Royal Command performances numbered at least 25.
Reinventing Himself: The Birth of Al Koran
Edward Doe became Al Koran in the 1940s. He chose a name that was simple, memorable, and slightly exotic. With this new identity, everything began to change. Soon after, he made a bold decision. He left his barbering trade behind and committed fully to life as a performer. At the same time, he worked hard to refine his stage persona. He dropped his East End accent. In its place, he adopted a sophisticated image—complete with carefully whitened hair at the temples. This new look helped set him apart.
Then, in 1947, he took another major step. He published his first book, Mastered Amazement, with collaborator Jack Lamonte. This marked the beginning of his reputation for creativity and originality.
Over the years, Koran continued to build on that foundation. He wrote numerous articles and manuscripts. Additionally, he formed a close relationship with Harry Stanley’s Unique Magic Studio. As a result, many of his creations became true classics. Effects like the Koran Deck, Ring Flite, and Colour Psychology are still performed by mentalists around the world today.
The Turn Toward Mentalism
Koran began shifting away from close-up magic toward mentalism, sensing greater appeal and sophistication in the genre. For this transition, he built a new character: a cultivated, intellectual gentleman with mysterious insight into human behaviour. His latest performance style was slower, riskier, and more reliant on psychology and suggestion.
Unlike many of his peers, Koran wasn't afraid to mix mentalism with classic magic. He might divine the contents of a locked box—and then make the box vanish. His daring approach and theatrical flair made him a favourite on the variety circuit and helped set him apart from his contemporaries.
National Fame and Media Appearances
Koran's risk-taking paid off. He became a regular face on British television, appearing frequently in the late 1950s and early 1960s. In one series produced by Russell Turner, he reached a nationwide audience and earned newspaper coverage for feats like predicting election outcomes and Derby winners weeks in advance.
Although television brought fame, not every moment was smooth. His first night performing at The Savoy was a disaster. He used entirely new material, which failed to connect. But Koran's resilience kept him on the bill, and he eventually made the venue his own.
"Bring Out the Magic in Your Mind"
In 1964, Bring Out the Magic in Your Mind was published. Although ghostwritten, it bore the Koran's name and was marketed as a self-help guide. It combined motivational advice with anecdotes about his performances. Critics called it a mix of "sound psychology and mumbo-jumbo," but it sold well and boosted Koran's public profile.
The book followed a trend among mentalists like Dunninger and Fogel, who also published popular psychology books. However, some believed Koran lacked the marketing flair of his peers. Despite his undeniable talent, he never quite achieved the commercial success or global fame that his abilities warranted.
The American Dream
In January 1969, Koran and his wife relocated to the United States. The reasons were mixed: his brother had moved to Chicago, his wife had relatives in America, and most importantly, Koran believed America offered better chances for wealth and recognition.
Just before leaving, he gave fellow magician Terry Seabrook a collection of props and books—including many by Annemann—as a parting gift. It was a quiet but meaningful moment in his departure from British magic.
Starting New in the States
Upon arriving in Cleveland—and later Chicago—Koran settled into an upscale apartment. It included a saltwater aquarium, reflecting his taste for elegance. Soon after, ads for “Professional Secrets” began appearing in Genii magazine. These were sold at premium prices. At the same time, gigs were booked steadily. TV appearances followed, including The Ed Sullivan Show.
Koran seemed poised for a second career peak—until tragedy struck.
Decline and Final Days
In the early 1970s, a diagnosis of terminal cancer was received. Medical costs in the U.S. were high. Without NHS support, financial strain grew quickly. Fortunately, help came from the British magic community. Led by Ken Brooke, a fundraiser was organised. Over £1,000 (about $2,500 then) was gathered to support him.
Despite worsening health, Koran stayed involved in the magic world. He even attended conventions. Nevertheless, his performing days were coming to an end.
On 12 June 1972, Al Koran passed away at age 58. His ashes were scattered by magician Billy McComb. Locations included the stage of the London Palladium, the dealers’ hall at the Margate Magic Convention, and Bond Street—outside Truefitt & Hill.
A Legacy Still Felt Today
Koran was never a loud showman like Dunninger or Fogel. Rather, he was quieter and more reflective. He brought subtlety, thoughtfulness, and elegance to mentalism.
Even now, his effects are studied and used. Professional Presentations and Koran’s Legacy remain cornerstone texts.
Importantly, he often criticised amateur magicians. Especially those who rushed into performances without mastering their material. Koran valued depth over novelty. His carefully built routines reflected that principle.
Though wealth was not left behind, something greater was. His legacy endures—built on brilliant ideas, precise presentation, and the lasting power of psychological wonder.
References:
* Professional Presentations; Hugh Miller
* Koran’s Legacy; Hugh Miller
* The Magic of Al Koran; edited by Martin Breese
* The Mind Readers; William V Rauscher
* Genii Magazine 1972; Bayard Grimshaw
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