Queen guitarist Brian May described his magic as "amazing".
He has performed for the likes of Michael Caine and Emma Watson Wood and recently enjoyed sell out shows at the Magic Circle.
Now Chris Wood is bringing his up-close and personal style of magic to Epsom.
Wood’s career in magic was sparked by his self-proclaimed misspent youth when he left school at 16 and got involved in gambling.
Which is where he learned to cheat at cards. He describes his natural ability at this as "incredibly dangerous".
Wood learnt his skills through reading books, in contrast with today's aspiring magicians who are rely on media such as YouTube to learn their skills.
It was his fascination with reading that led to his break into magic.
One day, when buying an obscure book from a magic shop, the owner and renowned escapologist Allen Allen took a liking to him and began teaching him the ways of magic.
A lucky encounter, as according to Wood, "Magic, when it comes down to learning, is traditionally word of mouth".
Thirty years on, asked what inspired him about the art he says: "the depth of magic and its sheer deviousness captivated me...I’ve always had very high standards, I had to strive for an unreachable goal.
"Magic is universal, I strive to convince the audience that magic is real, to make it live on its own".
Magic has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity due to the work of artists such as Dynamo. Yet many remain sceptical about the work of magicians on TV or online, simply because of the potential for camera trickery.
But the intimacy of The Close Up Show removes this element, furthering the air of genuine mystery and entertainment.
It has a much more personal, intimate and authentic style than so-called "stage magic" such as pulling rabbits out of hats.
The Close Up Show showcases the work of three performers of close up magic, and revolves around three tables, with the furthest member of the audience being within six foot of the performer, allowing for what Wood describes as "involvement through the roof!".
When asked for what his favourite trick is, Chris thinks long and hard, searching through his massive mental filing cabinet of tricks before finally saying that it is is throwing a card straight into a full deck, something very few magicians can pull off.
Close Up Show
Epsom Playhouse
Saturday September 28
Tickets £16.50
www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
Box office 01372 742555
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here