Everyone who lives there knows that Brisbane is magic, but now three talented performers are proving it to the world, launching the Theatre of Magic
in a special Saturday night residency in a secret room in the
historic Elizabeth Picture Theatre.
The first of its kind in Queensland, and one of the few dedicated magic theatres in the world, Theatre of Magic is the brainchild of master magician, producer and stage star, Christopher Wayne, co-creator of the worldwide smash hit and the biggest Australian magic show in history, The Naked Magicians, as well as creator of the family magic spectacular Showmen.
Christopher is joined on stage by two fellow magic-makers in the acclaimed card-master Josh Norbido, dubbed ‘Hot Magic Josh’ by Nicole Scherzinger during his run as a semi-finalist in Australia’s Got Talent, and Kerry ‘Nigel’ Domann, an exceptional entertainer who has captivated audiences around the world with his unique blend of magic, comedy, charm and memory.
Theatre of Magic opens THIS Saturday evening and will run every Saturday for eight weeks with a view to permanence. The show is family friendly, intimate, exclusive and a fantastic hidden Brisbane experience. “Modelled after the world famous “Magic Castle” in Los Angeles, our audience can expect an elegant evening of magic that is world class – experienced just inches away from their faces, in a wonderful 40-seat theatre housed in a stunning historic venue, built in 1878, so there’s magic there before we even appear on stage!” said Wayne.
“Brisbane has nothing like this. It has never had anything like this. We have found a way to bring magic to audiences in an intimate setting, in one of the most beautiful and aged buildings in the entire city!”
“Theatre of Magic was created and to be the optimal way to experience magic and illusion, starring three of Australia’s best close up and stage magicians.”
“Brisbane has always batted well above its average in terms of being home to fantastic artists, musicians, writers and creators, so creating a dedicated Magic Theatre and show puts an indelible line under our city as grown up, and absolutely magic (but we may well make that line disappear before your eyes!”.
Tickets and More: Home | Brisbane’s Theatre of Magic
OR theatreofmagic.com.au
Below:
- Performer bios and Top 10 Questions with each!
- LIST: Arguably The Top 10 Magicians Of All Time (according to us)!
- LIST: A Bit About Magic – The History, Top Moments, Insights & Super Useful Information
CHRISTOPHER WAYNE
Comedy Magician and producer Christopher Wayne is the co-creator and co-star of the biggest Australian magic show in history, The Naked Magicians, as well as creator of the family magic spectacular Showmen. He’s performed on Broadway, in Vegas and London’s West End, and, well, over 300 cities around the world! His passion is creating original, commercial entertainment for families that contains no deep messages or themes, just pure entertainment at a time when we all need it. Brisbane, this one’s for you!
Top 10 With Chris
- Name and suburb: Christopher Wayne, Newstead
- What’s your first memory of Magic? My first memory is so stereotypical, but it was my Grandfather showing me the cheesiest, most “Grandad” Magic tricks ever. It changed my life.
- What’s your go-to Magic moment/trick/illusion? Any moment that makes people forget about the “now”.
- Who’s your Magic inspiration? David Copperfield is my biggest inspiration. He was the person that showed the world that magic was more than just “tricks”, and that you can illicit emotions in people through the artform.
- Why do think people love Magic? We live in a world where the answers to literally everything are in our hands, in our phones. Magic is one of the few things that comes without logic or explanation. It’s fantasy, but it’s fantasy happening right in front of your own eyes.
- Fave animal, food, drink? Monkeys, Thai food. Smokey Whiskey. (Not at the same time, ever.)
- Most embarrassing moment? Dislocating my knee on stage in The Naked Magicians. Nightmare fuel.
- What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous magician? I would be a theatre producer. It’s close to what I do now, but I am driven by the experience of strangers in a room enjoying live theatre.
- In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic. Cocktails. Magic. Memories.
- What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic in Brisbane. Brisbane hasn’t got anything like this. It has never had anything like this. We have found a way to bring magic to you in an intimate setting, in one of the most beautiful and aged buildings in the entire city!
JOSH NORBIDO
There’s the Nicole Scherzinger comment, and Chef Manu Feildel agreed, saying, ‘what you do is impossible and it’s the best magic I have ever seen!’ There’s more…. his technical skill with a deck of cards landed him as a consultant for Australian Academy Award winner Kate Blanchett in lead up to her role in Oceans 8, and as the lead Card Shuffling consultant on Russel Crowe’s 2022 Movie Poker Fac.
Top 10 With Josh
- Name and suburb: Joshua Norbido, Bridgeman Downs
- What’s your first memory of Magic? My first ever memory of Magic was witnessing a thumb being pulled off at the age of six. It was mind blowing.
- What’s your go-to Magic Moment? It’s always the Magic that happens in the spectator’s very own hands.
- Who’s your Magic inspiration? David Blaine, Asi Wind, Steve Cohen and David Stone from France.
- Why do think people love Magic? I think the older we get, the less Magical the world becomes. Magic is one of the few things left that can still give people the true feeling of wonder.
- Fave animal, food, drink? Dogs 4 life. Shepherd’s Pie, Southern Comfort & Coke.
- Most embarrassing moment? Being on stage and having a raw egg break in my jacket pocket with 40 minutes of the show still to go.
- What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous magician? I have a love for fitness so I feel like I would have become a very quirky personal trainer haha.
- In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic. Surprise, Happiness, Laughter.
- What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic – This format of Magic does not exist anywhere else in Queensland, so being able to bring this to the city I have grown up in is a dream come true!
KERRY ‘NIGEL’ DOMANN
He’s an exceptional entertainer who has captivated audiences around the world with his unique blend of magic, comedy, charm and memory. His natural talent for making people laugh and his love for magic make him perfect for the Theatre of Magic. Nigel’s ability to engage and connect with his audience is unparalleled, but what sets him apart is his ability to remember everyone’s name in the room, a feat that is not only incredibly difficult to achieve, but mind blowing and unforgettable to witness.
Top 10 With Nigel
- Name, and suburb you live: Nigel, Birkdale
- What’s your first memory of Magic? Watching Paul Daniel (British magician) on TV.
- What’s your go-to Magic moment? Names, I go around and memorise everyone’s name in the audience.
- Who’s your Magic inspiration? Tommy Copper and Harry Andersen.
- Why do think people love Magic? It’s simple – for the wonder.
- Fave animal, food, drink? Staffy dog named Leroy. Chocolate. Gin & Tonic.
- Most embarrassing moment? There’s so many. On my first night ever doing standup at a crazy comedy magic restaurant many years ago nobody applauded or laughed for a solid 10 minutes. I walked off the stage totally gutted only to do it all over again in the next night, and the next, and the next….
- What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous Magician? Qualitative Analyst, I’m a Math and I actually have three degrees!
- In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic. An unforgettable experience.
- What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic in Brisbane? There’s a seamless combination of stunning magic, mind-bending tricks, and sheer amazement that immerses the audience into a world of wonder and excitement. We’ve built anticipation throughout the whole show, we want audiences on the audience on the edges of their seats.
A Bit About Magic
- Ancient Origins: Magic has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The earliest known magical practices can be traced to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, where magicians used tricks to entertain and mystify audiences.
- The Magician’s Code: Magicians often adhere to a strict code of ethics known as the Magician’s Code, which emphasizes secrecy and the protection of magical secrets. This code helps maintain the mystery and wonder of magic.
- Harry Houdini’s Escapes: Harry Houdini, one of the most famous magicians of all time, was known for his incredible escape acts. He escaped from handcuffs, straitjackets, and even a milk can filled with water while submerged underwater.
- Sleight of Hand: Many magic tricks rely on sleight of hand, a skill that involves manipulating objects with great dexterity and speed. Skilled magicians can make objects seemingly appear or disappear right before your eyes.
- The Magic Castle: Located in Hollywood, California, the Magic Castle is a private club for magicians and magic enthusiasts. It’s a place where members and guests can enjoy magic shows, dine, and immerse themselves in the world of magic.
- Illusionists and Mentalists: Magic is not limited to traditional sleight of hand. Illusionists like David Copperfield perform grand-scale tricks, such as making the Statue of Liberty disappear. Mentalists like Derren Brown use psychology and mind-reading techniques to create mind-boggling experiences.
- The Fibonacci Sequence in Magic: Some magicians incorporate mathematical principles, like the Fibonacci sequence, into their tricks. The sequence’s aesthetic appeal and prevalence in nature make it a fascinating element in magical performances.
- Card Tricks: A staple of magic for centuries; modern card magicians like David Blaine and Shin Lim have taken this classic form of magic to new heights with their incredible skills and illusions.
- Technology and Magic: Modern magicians often integrate technology into their acts. This includes the use of augmented reality, holograms, and interactive apps to create mind-bending illusions that blend the digital and physical worlds.
- Magic on Television: Television has played a significant role in popularizing magic. Shows like “The Magic of David Copperfield” and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us” have brought magic into millions of homes, inspiring a new generation of magicians.
Arguably The Top 10 Magicians & Illusionists of All Time*
- Harry Houdini (1874-1926) – Known for his death-defying escape acts and illusions, Houdini is arguably the most famous magician in history.
- David Copperfield (born 1956) – Famed for his grand-scale illusions and innovative magic, Copperfield pushed the boundaries of magic.
- Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin (1805-1871) – Often called the “father of modern magic,” Robert-Houdin made significant contributions to magic’s evolution, including the development of the mystery clock and automaton.
- Dai Vernon (1894-1992) – Revered as “The Professor,” Vernon was a master of close-up magic and sleight of hand. His work influenced countless magicians and is still studied today.
- Siegfried & Roy (Siegfried Fischbacher, 1939-2021, and Roy Horn, 1944-2020) – This legendary duo brought a unique blend of magic and exotic animals to the Las Vegas stage, becoming synonymous with the city’s entertainment scene.
- Penn & Teller (Penn Jillette and Teller) – Known for their irreverent and intellectual approach to magic, this duo has combined comedy and illusion to great success.
- Doug Henning (1947-2000) – Henning was a charismatic performer who popularized magic during the 1970s and 1980s with his television specials and Broadway shows.
- Criss Angel (born 1967) – Angel is known for his edgy, mind-bending illusions and became a pop culture icon through his TV show “Mindfreak.”
- Max Malini (1873-1942) – Malini was a legendary close-up magician who performed for kings, presidents, and celebrities worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on close-up magic.
- Chris Wayne, Josh Norbido and Kerry ‘Nigel’ Domann – it is, after all, our list!
