• HOME
  • LATEST READS
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Video Blog
  • About
  • Commenting Policy
  • Search Archives

The Theatre Reader

  • HOME
  • LATEST READS
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Video Blog
  • About
  • Commenting Policy
  • Search Archives
  • Menu

Tricks is a Treat for the Whole Family

December 22, 2015

Nick Catania

Publicist/Staff Writer

As part of their annual Family Festival, Soulpepper Theatre brings David Ben and Patrick Watson's magical Tricks to the Young Centre this holiday season. Packed with curiosity, wonder and wow, this jam-packed show full of illusions is sure to leave you pondering long after the lights go down.

Tricks is exactly what the title suggests - a magic show full of theatrical illusions and magical engagements. Performed by master illusionist David Ben, audiences are invited into his 19th Century-inspired salon. There are no plot developments, character schemes or dramatic insertions, but rather a melange of different illusions requiring concise skill. Ben brings wit, humour and ongoing escape into the wonder of how such feats are accomplished, while at the same time bringing many smiles to audiences young and old. 

Be advised that the show does require some form of audience interaction. Right from the beginning of the show, Ben pulls us into the beauty and pure wonder of illusion with a head-scratching endeavour that plucks your brain. Whether it's guessing a card, guessing a number, or drinking an unknown substance, don't shy away from these awe-inspiring acts. Without spoiling any of the illusions, participation is what gets you closer to the action and directly involved in the magic. 

The salon concept behind the design works well at providing a very brief, but successfully accomplished history into the work of illusions. Glenn Davidson's set design is both simple and elegant, catching the eyes while working to displace the eyes of the audience. Cameron Davis' video projections assist in emphasizing the magic on stage, from the historical drafting of illusion instruments right through to the snowballed ending. 

If you love magic and the wonder that accompanies it, then you'll certainly love Ben and Watson's hour of illusion. Bring the parents and definitely don't forget the kids for a tricky performance of wonder and wow. 

 Tricks plays at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts until Jan. 3. For more information visit soulpepper.ca. 

← Mockingbird questions human flaw in an over-the-top, racy comedyA Holiday Treat for the Nostalgic at Heart →
  • The Theatre Reader
    TTR: We are very sad to announce we will be taking our final bow https://t.co/6JvXOlAM3m
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    REVIEW: Shaw Festival’s Dracula lures but lacks bite https://t.co/1oQyWOo6Rp
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    We're back at @ShawTheatre and in for a dark and dramatic evening. https://t.co/AptKoyH1z1
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    ARTISTIC DIRECTOR EMERITUS HONOURED WITH CREATION OF THE CHRISTOPHER NEWTON INTERNS PROGRAM #Shawfestival #TheaTO
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    "Feore’s choreography delivers some of the best dance numbers I’ve ever seen." #guysanddolls #TheaTO https://t.co/Sdiel6HZcZ
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    Hamilton Fringe Announces Line up for Frost Bite 2018 #HamiltonFringe
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    The Stars Align: Toronto Masque Theatre’s final season is a chance to celebrate #TheaTO #Torontomasquetheatre
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    RT @StephanieTzogas: Last review of the 65th @stratfest season for @TheatreReader : Guys and Dolls 🎭 Luck be a lady tonight 🎲… https://t.co/h1tU4ihGPy
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    REVIEW: @stratfest's TWELFTH NIGHT is "thoroughly entertaining" https://t.co/bO4SNQ6K4U https://t.co/uGXiWcgNzw
    about a year ago
  • The Theatre Reader
    RT @StephanieTzogas: Exciting news from @TheatreReader 🎭 support their #GetDramatic campaign today! https://t.co/0iXD4u7YgK
    about a year ago