Arnold Crowther

Arnold Crowther (born 7 October 1909 in Chatham, Kent of the UK - died 1 May 1974) was a skilled stage magician, ventriloquist, and puppeteer, and was married to Patricia Crowther. He was born as one of a pair of fraternal twins. During his career he worked in cabaret, and in 1938-1939, he entertained Princess Elizabeth and her sister, Princess Margaret Rose at Buckingham Palace, which got him invited to numerous engagements to entertain the titled gentry of England. Crowther was also a founder, member and President of the Puppet Guild, and he made more than 500 puppets in his lifetime.

Shortly before World War II Crowther met Gerald Gardner and his wife Donna at the Caledonian Market in London. Arnold Crowther became friends with the Gardners and Crowther frequently visited the Gardners' London flat. Crowther became very interested in Witchcraft after meeting Gardner, but was not initiated until eighteen years later. When they met, Gardner's coven was very averse to publicity, and was afraid that Crowther might use Witchcraft in his act.

During World War II Crowther entertained with the Entertainments National Services Association, touring throughout Europe and entertaining service men with his "Black Magic" show. During the war years, Crowther joined the Forces Entertainment’s Corps, and entertained troops all over Europe with his show "Black Magic." The "Black Magic" show also included an African Basuto choir. On 10 November 1943, while en route from Tripoli to Malta, he performed aboard a DC 3 airplane flying at 4,000 feet.

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