THE MAGIC OF IT ALL – THE STORY OF STRAWBS

WORLD PREMIERE

A legacy built on music. A journey defined by resilience. A final act no one saw coming.

In September 2022, David Cousins, frontman of British folk-prog pioneers Strawbs, travelled to Cape Town to record what would become The Magic of It All, collaborating with a studio band of leading South African musicians.

In March 2023, David was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a serious blood disorder. Despite the challenges of his diagnosis and subsequent treatment, he continued to create, record and perform, releasing The Magic of It All in July 2023 and taking to the stage at Cropredy that August for what he had decided would be his final live performance.

Featuring Strawbs alumni and collaborators Rick Wakeman, Blue Weaver, John Ford and Brian Willoughby, alongside legendary producer Tony Visconti (@tonyvisconti), @nielvandev’s documentary captures an extraordinary chapter in David’s musical journey — a story of creativity, resilience and an enduring passion for music.

From the recording studios of Cape Town to a poignant farewell before 25,000 fans at Cropredy, The Magic of It All is a moving celebration of Strawbs, their remarkable musical legacy and the extraordinary power of music to transcend life’s greatest challenges.

Niel Van Deventer| South Africa/UK| 2026 | 82’

Director Spotlight: Niel van Deventer reflects on why Dave Cousins’ story is so compelling, and how a chance introduction led to his decision to commit the story of Strawbs’ origins, career and moving final recording and concert to film.
https://youtu.be/6mICjIIANok