Laser beams, video screens, iPads, and augmented reality—
—all things you’d expect to find at a tech conference— or perhaps even the Apple store— but certainly not at a magic show where we’ve come to expect illusions backed by tricks of the light or sleight of hand. At iMAGICIAN, we’re in for a show that blends technology with some good old-fashioned magic.
Harris Theater Hosts Jamie Allan and His High-tech Magic
All the way from London’s West End comes a magician who has decided to up the ante by bringing some non-traditional elements to his illusions. We find a slew of traditional tricks Jamie Allan has modified to both fit his style and bring them into the 21st century.
He begins--- laser beams are thrown all across the stage. The energy continues with Allan’s signature trick The Four Seasons where he makes objects appear out of thin air by passing them through tablets. We are all oo-ing and ah-ing.
The traditional saw-a-lady-in-half trick?? He takes it up a notch by placing her in a clear box to unmask some of the mystery.
Some of us get to pick a card, and then, through some magical manipulation, he keeps it reappearing over and over again!
Throughout all these magical moments, Allan shares some of his personal life and influences from magic history such as the legendary Harry Houdini. And yes, there are even some tricks originated by Houdini himself!
For this writer, while the added projections and augmented reality certainly create a more modern show, his tricks could be just as mind boggling standing on their own. His sleight of hand card tricks, and especially a choreographed number to Sting’s Shape of My Heart and making cards appear out of thin air are truly his strength. Throughout the routine, he has our full attention.
Are You a Believer?
From the beginning, Allan tells us the usual audience for a magic show is divided into two camps—those who are skeptics and those who want to believe.
Whichever side you fall into, this show is a good fit for you. If you’re a skeptic, there are probably tricks you can decipher.
If you’re a believer, it is not hard to be wow’d at every turn. However, there will be moments where even the skeptics will crossover into the believer camp with their jaw dropped and eyes wide in disbelief.
iMAGICIAN is a good pick for anyone who is looking for an event out with the family during the holiday break after Christmas. Though you might be skeptical, Allan has moments that will definitely have you turning to your friends and asking “How did he do that!”
RECOMMENDED
Note: This is now added to the Picture this Post round up of BEST PLAYS IN CHICAGO, where it will remain until the end of the run. Click here to read — Top Picks for Theater in Chicago NOW – Chicago Plays PICTURE THIS POST Loves.
When
Now through December 30, 2018
Wednesday, Dec. 26 at 2:00PM
Thursday, Dec. 27 at 7:30PM
Friday, Dec. 28 at 7:30PM
Saturday, Dec. 29 at 2:00PM, 5:00PM & 8:00PM
Sunday, Dec. 30 at 2:00PM
Where
Harris Theater
205 E. Randolph
Chicago, IL
Photos
Courtesy of Starvox Entertainment
Ticket:
About the Author
Alexis is a theater reviewer, travel bug, media specialist, and burger & beer enthusiast. During the day she works in the advertising business as a senior communications designer. When night falls, or when she can escape to New York, she’s hitting the theaters to see as many shows as she can. And whenever she’s not at her desk or in the audience, she’s out seeking the best burger and beer offerings in Chicago.
Editor's Note: Click here to read more Picture this Post articles by Alexis Bugajski
