Wonderville ★★★★ Palace Theatre | Jul 16 - Aug 30, 2021


Wonderville does what theatre is best at – creating great illusions to make us believe the unbelievable. We know, for example, that the actor playing Hamlet doesn't actually die any more than the woman being sawn in half is actually cleft in two – but we believe what we see. Here, we have a hugely entertaining variety show with Chris Cox as the most amiable of hosts who also baffles us with his ingenious mind-reading act. Cox is genuinely funny and has great rapport with his audience. We then meet Edward Hilsum who, after producing balls and doves out of nowhere, invites a little boy onto the stage and manages to make it appear as if he had become a conjurer – the look of delight on the seven-year-old's face charms everyone. Top of the bill are Young and Strange, and they live up to their name with incredible feats of contortion and, yes, we do get to see them saw a woman in half! This illusion was introduced in 1921 by P. T. Selbit and a century later remains as clever as ever . Their other spectacular illusions are just masterly in their execution. Maybe some of the support acts aren't quite as well honed but they remain amusing. Children from six to eleven will really find this show thrilling, and even those of us somewhat older end up releasing our inner child to be totally amazed. Prestidigitation and illusion rule at Wonderville giving us smashing entertainment!

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by D.S.J.
Photo by Pamela Raith.

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When, Where, Getting there:
  • Jul 16 - Aug 30, 2021
  • Mon & Wed - Fri: 7:30 pm
  • Sat: 3:45 pm & 7:45 pm. Sun: 3:45 pm
  • Palace Theatre
  • Nearest tube: Leicester Square
  • https://www.wondervilleuk.com
Map & Location: 113 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 5AY, UK

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