Sam Angelico and Rosanna Maccarron have been performing magic for over 20 years, enthralling audiences on cruise ships, at cabaret and variety shows, and corporate events. Now is your chance to see their latest show, Illusionaire, at the Mission to Seafarers Dome in Docklands.
The Dome is a unique and historic venue with its original exposed brick form. It really sets the scene for an evening of unexplainable illusions, and takes you back to the heyday of travelling magicians.
I had a pre-conception that Rosanna would be the magician’s glamorous assistant. She is certainly glamorous; yet she’s a talented magician in her own right. The show features Rosanna and Sam performing separately and as a duo, but definitely as equals. This was a pleasing change.
Illusionaire successfully combines magic and comedy and there is variety within the performance, with card tricks, mind-reading, disappearing scarves, and even a flying table. Some acts involve explaining how the trick is performed, but in most cases I was left wondering ‘just how did they do that?’ Illusionaire makes the seemingly impossible possible.
Lucky audience members are selected to assist with the magic. There were two young boys chosen on the night I attended and they were literally beaming with excitement during their participation. This is show suitable for families as well as adult-only groups.
It’s possible to drift off during some theatrical performances. In this case, my attention was fully on the show, what was going to happen next, and trying to figure out the methods behind the magic (I failed).
Sam and Rosanna both have Sicilian ancestry and don’t fail to take any opportunity to make a joke at their supposed shifty appearance. Sam tells of a grandfather who was a famous magician and taught him magic from a young age, spurring a life-long passion. I am not sure if this story is true (who can tell with these Sicilians?!). What is known, however, is that Angelico is recipient of the prestigious title of ‘World Champion of Comedy Magic’ and deservedly so.
If you are looking for an alternative night out in a different venue this festive season, Illusionaire is for you.
– Rachel
Celebrating four years living in Melbourne, Rachel is a fan of theatre, food, the outdoors and all things new and exciting.
Illusionaire runs from 21 January to 24 December 2017 at the Mission to Seafarers, 2.30pm and 7.30pm every Saturday & Sunday. Book tickets now.
The venue is not wheelchair accessible.
