I can't remember the last time I've been to a magic show (still salty about missing out on David Blaine when he stopped by here years ago), or ever..? But as someone who's enjoyed the Now You See Me franchise (we all know it's a cashgrab opportunity), I'm all for this. But I dunno why they wait until the third movie to create a live show...?
I got a ticket months ago back when there was a UOB cardmembers' promo, but as it was getting closer, more promos showed up, which is great if I was local, but I still had other things to think of, so I didn't risk it. (You could get cheaper tickets on Klook, etc, but you might not be able to pick seats?) The issue was deciding when to go. After a lot of dithering, I went with a Saturday morning show (11.30 a.m.).
Based on Lionsgate’s worldwide blockbuster magic-heist film franchise that has captivated audiences across the globe, the Asia premiere of Now You See Me Live will bring the magic to life in Singapore with an explosive mix of high-tech illusions, solo stunts and jaw-dropping spectacles.
For the first time in Singapore, four world-class illusionists will unite as The Horsemen, transforming the magic of the films into a live stage spectacle with never-before-seen feats of wonder. Collectively, these illusionists have performed thousands of shows in hundreds of cities including sell-out residencies on Broadway and in Las Vegas leaving audiences spellbound and questioning the very limits of possibility.
From the creators behind Broadway’s record-breaking hit The Illusionists, this breathtaking blockbuster experience is an all-new live experience that will defy your senses.
Did not cross my mind that this would be considered family entertainment until I saw a lot of kids running around. I wonder if the kids have seen the movies, or they're just here for the magic show.
If you've seen the movies, you'd know right away who was which Horseman.
Walking in, I knew the isotonic drink (not 100Plus) I was carrying was gonna be an issue at the bag check - I either had to finish it (it was 90% full, we all know that it wasn't feasible for me to chug it), or check it at the cloakroom. It's kinda funny checking in a bottled drink, but I get it. I'm sure the cloakroom aunties get that a lot too. Did not get anything from the concession this time, but can't say I wasn't sorely tempted, only cos I know it'd be lunch time by the time it's over, so might as well just wait.
At least this time there was a big screen, and a cameraman getting his steps in every show tracking everyone, so that the rest of us could see the closeup magic on it, etc. They packed a lot in 2 hours (including the 15 minute intermission; I practically flew to the bathroom) - sleight of hand, teleportation, close up magic, quick change, crowd interaction (both kids and adults), even the infamous Chinese Water Torture Cell escape.. One of the funnier moments was when a 9 year old girl took too long to lie about her age so that she could go up on stage to be part of the act (kononnya had to be 10), but I say she was being too honest, cos it took the magician asking her age FIVE times for her to finally take the hint LOL
The crowd interaction was not bad - at one point, they had us tear up cards (which was on everyone's arm rest as they came in), do a lot of shuffling, etc, so we'd end up with pieces that matched up. I still have my pieces.
It was almost 1.30 p.m. by the time the show ended. Ended up getting a shit lunch at So Pho upstairs.
Random thoughts:
- I wonder if they brought this show to Singapore cos it's year of the Horse...?
- I hope these guys actually get to stay at MBS while they're here.
