This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth.
Event details
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The Illusionists: Witness The Impossible
The top masters of their field gather together to form 'The Illusionists-Witness the Impossible.' All ages shall be prepared to be amazed by the full array of hilarious magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder which routinely drops jaws to the floor. In its US debut, having wowed audiences all over the world, 'The Illusionists' will be in Dayton at the Schuster Center on January 13 & 14.
One of the featured illusionists is Kevin James, who guarantees that everyone's appetite for entertainment will be satisfied. The array of talent offers something for all tastes. "It's seven of the top magicians doing their best material, with all different styles. It's like a big buffet, if there's something you don't like then something you do like will be coming up soon," said James.
'The Illusionists' features; The Manipulator, Yu Ho-Jin; The Anti-Conjurer, Dan Sperry; The Trickster, Jeff Hobson; The Escapologist, Andrew Basso; The Warrior, Aaron Crow; and the The Futurist, Adam Trent. James is called The Inventor, due to the catalog of illusions he has created. Not only did James create his entire act, but he's also invented tricks used by some of the best known magicians, including David Copperfield.
James is always on the lookout for the inspiration behind a new illusion. With his illusions, James sets out to provide more than just a moment of wonder, but tries to tell a story. "I live life with a curiosity of seeing what story I can tell from literature, movies, music or nature. All are sources that I can turn into theater," he said.
In 'The Illusionists,' James strives to provide the same range of emotions that any other theatrical production includes from sweet, to nostalgic and also shocking. His act ranges from chopping a person in half to making it snow on top of the audience. Of all the amazing feats he performs, the most pleasing for James is forming a bond with the audience. He connects with them on a personal level, by reflecting on their first memory of snow, before he makes it start to fall. "I make it a personal experience for everyone in the audience," said James.
A facet of 'The Illusionists' that James is really proud of is how it relates to everyone, no matter their age or ethnicity. "Magic is like no other art form, there are no age or language barriers. It is all very visual. I went to a Broadway show the other night and I saw three Japanese people in the audience who were sleeping. They weren't able to understand what was happening. You don't have to speak English to enjoy magic," he said.
Since opening three years ago, 'The Illusionists' have traveled to 90 countries, proving that magic does have the power to overcome language barriers. Though the travel was nice, James is glad to be back in the U.S. "I'm very happy to be where cell phones work great and where there's always a 7-11 just around the corner," he said.
For James the value of magic is all in the presentation. He believes the true trick is still being able to enjoy an illusion, even if it's known how it's done. "The secret of the trick is only 5%. 95% is the visual presentation. First you have to learn the techniques and then make them look invisible. You have to do the techniques so fluidly that you do them without thinking," said James. "I watch from backstage and know how the others do their tricks, but I still appreciate it for the nuances of their presentation."
'The Illusionists' will be at the Schuster Center on January 13 & 14. Tickets are available by calling 937-228-3630, toll free 888-228-3630 or by visiting www.ticketcenterstage.com.
Student Rush: ½ off any price ticket day of show at Box Office or by phone with student ID (limit 1 ticket per ID).
Military Discount: 25% discount at Box Office or by phone with military ID (limit 2 tickets per ID).
“It’s deliciously, self-knowingly over the top and brain-bendingly spectacular–genuinely satisfying family entertainment that should not be missed.” – The Daily Telegraph
Direct from Broadway, the world’s best selling magic show is coming to Dayton! This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. THE ILLUSIONISTS has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.
AGE RECOMMENDATION:
Our policy is children under the age of 6 will not be permitted. Occasionally a particular production will include content that is generally not suitable for those under the age of 17. For the consideration of all patrons, children on laps and/or babes in arms are not permitted at most Victoria Theatre Association presentations.
Photos: The Illusionists: Witness The Impossible
Links & Tags
The Schuster Center
Dayton Live.
