The Illusionists 1903 hit the stage of Canberra Theatre Centre last night to delight a crowd of all ages. Walking into the theatre was like walking back in time to 1903, when magic shows and illusionists were the peak of entertainment, before movies became a social norm. Last night the wonder and joy of illusion was brought back to an audience of young and old and did not disappoint.

The show was a journey of traditional acts, tricks and illusions commencing with a lady on stage typing a letter on an antique typewriter which was later suspended above the stage until the end of the performance.

Before the letter was opened audiences were delighted by a comical performance by Charlie Fry ‘The Eccentric’ and his incredibly unhelpful assistant. ‘The Charlatan’ – Dana Daniels with his psychic dove also had the audience in stitches as he invited volunteers up on stage.

Death defying Houdini stunts had us all on the edge of our seats as Kendral ‘The Escapologist’ took to the stage and Jinger Leigh ‘The Conjuress’ had us in disbelief as she appeared out of thin air, was cut in half and conjured an orb of light around and above the stage.

The Showman was our guide through the Golden Age of Magic, providing context to the acts, stunts and tricks performed on the night. Yet, nothing could have prepared the audience for the amazing performance of Amelie and Thommy ‘The Clairvoyants’. This dynamic duo kept audiences guessing as Amelie and Thommy’s connection proved so strong that she could tell exactly what Thommy had placed in his hand, including the serial number on a $5 note provided by a random audience member!

As the Illusionist’s proved to be extraordinary masters of their craft, my favourite act of the night was that of ‘The Marionette’. Unexpectedly, a gentleman and his marionette took to the stage to perform a simple yet astonishing magic act with a ball disappearing and appearing in a before seen empty box, the puppet then proceeded to tap a small top hat 3 times with a magic wand that released a mountain of streamers onto the stage.

The suspended letter above the stage was read at the end of the show and its contents named all the volunteers from the audience and surprise occurrences throughout the show, leaving the audiences unsure of how this feat was accomplished.

The Illusionists 1903 is definitely a must see this December at Canberra Theatre Centre, suitable for everyone, young and old. The performance will have you laughing, nervous and continually guessing.