Let me start by saying I'm not necessarily a fan of magic shows. Having never attended any sort of professional magic show I can't say I was drawn to go see this one. That being said, the Broadway Across America's production “The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible” was one of the most entertaining performances I've been to in a while. The show includes acts by seven different illusionists. Each one goes by a specific moniker: the Inventor, the Warrior, the Escapologist, the Trickster, the Manipulator, the Anti-conjurer, and the Futurist. I was incredibly surprised by the level of showmanship that each one demonstrated.
Vegas veteran Jeff Hobson (the Trickster) and Adam Trent
(the Futurist) act as the show’s emcees. They take turns hamming it up with the
audience and introducing the other magicians. Both were hilarious and although
neither of their magic tricks are mind blowing, their interactions with the
audience made the whole show more entertaining.
This elaborate show works because it keeps moving.
There's something for everyone, but not everything is for everyone. Some people
might prefer the quiet reverie of the Manipulator, while others delight in the
gaudy and playful humor of the Trickster. Regardless, you’ll probably find one
that suits your taste because they are all so different. The Anti-conjurer, a
Marilyn Manson-style artist, is particularly strange, but again no magician
takes center stage for too long. Together they showcase all the usual elements
of typical "magic" shows, but they do so while embracing and poking
fun at stereotypes.
There’s a lot of comedy worked into the show and the acts
hold a lot of variety, which keeps things light. All of the illusionists are
talented performers and know exactly how to get the biggest reaction from their
audience using their medium of choice. The Warrior does a trick with a bow and
arrow and a wedding ring which will make your jaw drop. He reminded me quite a
bit of a professional dog trainer, he never speaks but with the slightest
movement of his hand we all knew exactly what he needed us to do. The
Escapologist recreates the infamous Harry Houdini’s trick with a water torture
chamber. Both men built the tension beautifully and you could feel the audience
holding its collective breath.
One thing to note, the show relies heavily on audience involvement and people are constantly being called on to help with different tricks. If you’re anywhere near the front of the house, there’s a solid chance you’ll get pulled up on stage.
Don't Miss the Show
The show runs until Sunday, Jan. 25 at the Old National Centre (Murat Theatre) so hurry to get tickets. Tickets can be purchased at Clowes Memorial Hall, The Murat Theatre, by calling (800)-982-2787 or online here. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday.
Photos courtesy of Broadway Across America
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