AMAZE
Review by Sam
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jamie Allan becomes the third UK illusionist in over 40 years to get an extended solo West End season, but does his show manage to live up to the title.
Starting in the 1980’s, Allan details his journey into magic through a nostalgic lens with countless references to cult classics of the era. The staging by Damien Stanton is AMAZE-ing, allowing a glimpse into Allan’s home attic filled with childhood memories. As the show unfolds, props are used and then boxed away, inferring the final trick is the ending of his childhood. His signature iMagic trick is a stand out, using technology in a spellbinding way, showcasing the talent of Allan’s craft. However the best illusions were the final two tricks, demonstrating his ability at sleight of hand. Whilst the magic is woven into this narrative, the thread between tricks can often feel a little thin.
As a showman, Allan is extremely charming but sadly lacks the charisma of other performers of this calibre. When compared to magicians such as Derren Brown, Allan’s patter and general showmanship can often feel a little clunky. Additionally, the tricks are of the more classical variety, with Allan still managing to deliver them with enough pizazz to sell their amazement to the newest of sceptics. However I couldn’t help but feel that I’d seen some of these delivered better in the past.
Despite the wondrous moments, the show as a whole doesn’t quite stand alone with originality. AMAZE ends up feeling like a traditional magic show that has been scaled up for a west end venue, whilst still managing to maintain a family friendly skewing audience. That’s not to say that the show is bad by any stretch, as I myself was in awe of these tricks when I saw them at a young age. However a lack in some creativity does result in the show feeling that it isn’t quite big enough to fill its West End space just yet.
At its core, AMAZE is an endearing and magical show geared towards families of all ages. It looks to ignite the childlike wonder in us all and for the most part succeeds with Allan’s journey being rooted at its core.