WITH dollops of doom and gloom every time we watch the news, what a tonic this is to review a show that not only brings a smile, but makes your stomach ache from belly laughing.
‘Magic Goes Wrong’ is collaboration between two dedicated producers of mirth, Mischief Theatre and Penn and Teller – individually they comprise Penn Jillette, Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, Henry Shields and Teller.
Magic is a word that not only applies to a conjuring trick but also to a wonderful experience – magic and magical can be applied to this show in all its senses.
The fun starts from the minute you enter the auditorium with pranks happening both on and off stage setting the scene for what’s to come.
Without giving away too much detail and thus spoiling the experience for those of you that are already booked or planning to get tickets, suffice it to say there are tricks that work which astound and confuse and there are tricks that don’t which delight and amuse.
The high-energy company comprises Daniel Anthony, Valerie Cutko, Sam Hill, Kiefer Moriarty, Rory Fairbairn, Jocelyn Prah and Chloe Tannennaum.
Individually they shine and collectively they sparkle.
Adam Meggido directs with the skill of making a two-hour show disappear as if we had been but ten minutes in the auditorium. Will Bowen has designed a Las Vegas set and Ben Hart, the magic consultant, has made sure there is a liberal sprinkling of sorcery.
For those of us old enough to remember the late Tommy Cooper – the comedic magician who also had his tricks go wrong – this show is a nod to his genius. There is even a guest appearance from master illusionist himself Derren Brown.
Magic goes Wrong is a show that goes just right. I’m still reliving and smiling at much of it today – it’s a magical fun-filled feast.
I’d say Mischief and Penn and Teller have really pulled the rabbit out of the hat with this one – whoops!
Magic Goes Wrong runs at the Birmingham Hippodrome until May 29.
You really are missing a trick if you don’t grab yourself tickets.
Click here for times, tickets and more information.