ACT I (The Concise Version)
For any magician to prepare two new shows in a year is no mean feat. Since Magic INC appeared earlier this year at Oadby Royal British Legion, the performers have been working on Their Brand New Show especially for the very same venue.
Magic INC comprises of three Magic Circle magicians, David Leeson, Ian Gamage and Pete Whitmore. The venue was perfect for their close-up and parlour magic with a large spacious stage, with a comfortable seating arrangement and good views for the audience.
“The acceptable face of deception” - Ian Gamage acted as MC with each performer appearing on stage for approximately 30 minutes and with the interval, the show lasted 2 hours. Live music performed by local musician George Russell.
Humour was injected throughout all the performances, with the team presenting dangerous magic, mystifying illusions and a large helping of mentalism.
Ian Gamage confidently started proceedings with his close up/parlour show which included vanishing objects, an amazing rope routine that you don’t see performed live often and an element of danger with a routine using an old metal hunting trap.
Pete Whitmore created a more mysterious presence on stage demonstrating his ability to connect with the audience and show his ability to read minds/thoughts through his abilities to read body language, mannerisms and even tone of voice.
David Leeson finished the show with a humorous take on mind reading, performing his skills comedically and then mysteriously retrieving a signed playing card in a unique way.
The show was set in an intimate setting with an appreciative and very co-operative audience. Many at the front participated to help the magicians perform and greatly enjoyed the experience.
A professional and well-rehearsed set that makes for perfect night out, ideal for family audiences. Thank you to Magic INC for performing “Their Brand New Show” and for the welcoming hospitality shown by The Oadby Royal British Legion.
INTERVAL
If this review has whet your appetite, think of this review as two acts. The concise version and then the Magic Seats Fan Boy edition.
"Magic Seats" reviews are spoiler free and no detailed show content is knowingly shared. General info about the show experience/production is discussed without detailing in-depth set content. The site's objective is to promote magic positively and keep this art alive in theatres.
ACT II (The Magic Seats Fan Boy Edition)
I first had the opportunity to watch Magic INC perform their "Magic in Mind" show earlier this year. As the new show title suggests, this show is all brand-new material.
Previously I have worked with all three performers to provide content for this site and have even worked with them putting on what could be classed as a magic variety show in the past.
When talking to the Magic INC performers earlier in the month they mentioned that they liked performing at The Oadby Royal British Legion and I can see why, as it is spacious with a large stage. A very well run and friendly club who welcome non-members to events at very reasonable prices. The venue does organise and promote many events so it is worth checking their FaceBook page.
The show was a great way to start the weekend (Friday night) and Magic INC were all on form. It really showed how well rehearsed this show was and if any unexpected eventualities, it wasn’t noticed and no doubt expertly handled.
I have seen a lot of magic, so I expected to still see things I had seen before. What was pleasing was that this was only partly true. I saw a few routines that I had never seen performed live with an audience and certainly, 95% of this shows content was different from their last performance.
Comparing their two shows (the first being “Magic in Mind”), I could see their growth as an ensemble act with increased confidence in delivery and humour. It was obvious the performers were enjoying themselves.
All sets were very memorable, but my show highlights were the box and rope trick by Ian, Pete and his children’s book and David with his drawing/mentalism act.
While the audience was a small intimate parlour size, this ultimately benefited the performers and audience as the close-up work was easy to follow and the room atmosphere was infectious with all having a good time. It also has to be said a table full of ladies watching (about 8) really helped the show. Their enthusiasm and willingness to cooperate and interact was amazing.
Thank you to Magic INC and The Oadby Royal British Legion for a brilliant night out.
To book "Magic Inc" and their "Magic in Mind" show” or “Their Brand New Show”:
Please contact Ian Gamage for "Magic Inc" bookings and enquiries. The artists' websites detail available services and all are available to be booked directly for solo events.
To book the acts:
Ian Gamage - Magician
David Leeson - Magician
Pete Whitmore - Magic and Mentalism
George Russell - Musician
To enquire about shows at the venue - The Oadby Royal British Legion FaceBook
Magic Inc is also nominated in the Magic Seats Recognition Awards 2024. Closing date is on the 24-Nov at midnight.
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