Magic Goes Wrong – Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Writers: Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, with Penn and Teller

Director: Adam Megiddo

Magic Goes Wrong is one of Mischief Theatre’s latest productions and is the third instalment of the ‘Goes Wrong’ series, following The Play That Goes Wrong and Peter Pan Goes Wrong. It is currently out on a UK tour and soon to open in the West End. This play is hilarious! It is the very definition of laugh-a-minute. None of the jokes and gags last for too long and they are all perfectly timed. With a sensational cast and brilliant production values, this is not to be missed!

Adam Megiddo’s direction makes the piece run smoothly (or as smoothly as it should do!). The show is played completely seriously which makes it all the funnier, but there are some moments of tenderness that are brilliantly performed. Will Bowen’s set design is simple but effective and Roberto Surace’s costumes are wonderful. David Howe’s lighting design is one of the major standouts of this production – it really is spectacular.

Sam Hill leads the cast as Sophisticato. His performance is fantastic. He brings the different aspects of the show together perfectly and delivers the more tender and heartfelt moments beautifully. Rory Fairbairn’s The Mind Mangler is a highlight of the production. He delivers his tricks perfectly and he has a fantastic rapport with the audience. Kiefer Moriarty is also brilliant as The Blade. He has a huge amount of energy and intensity which is great fun to watch.

Valerie Cutko as Eugenia brings some class to the production. It’s a shame she isn’t more of the show but she does get to show off her gorgeous singing voice. Similarly, I felt Daniel Anthony was underused. His scenes are some of my favourites in the show and his comic timing and characterisation is spot on.

The lead cast is completed by Jocelyn Prah as Spitzmaus and Chloe Tannenbaum as Bär. They make a great duo and are great fun to watch. They particularly shone in their scenes with the other magicians. Tannenbaum’s comic timing was particularly spectacular.

Magic Goes Wrong is a brilliant piece of live entertainment from Mischief Theatre. Despite it not having as strong a narrative as some of their other plays, it is still completely enjoyable. Be sure to catch this talented cast at a venue near you.

Runs until 16^th October 2021