Magic shows aren’t hard to come by, they’ve been prominent in culture as early as ancient Egypt, where the first recorded ‘cups and balls’ magic trick took place. Therefore, pleasing an audience who’ve seen their fair share of illusions can be a challenging feat, even for the most skilled magicians.
Rabbits Out of the Hat is comprised of Vaudevillian performers Norvil and Josephine (Christopher Howell and Desireè Kongerød), a bickering brother and sister duo who spend the production trying to upstage one another. The battle of egos not only acts as an amusing dynamic, but a necessary tool for contextualisation. Whilst viewed as Norvil’s assistant, Josephine ultimately proves herself the superior magician in spite of her position as a woman in 1905 (the period in which the production is set).
Littered with classic tricks, the show transports you back to the past with surprising ease. Both Howell and Kongerød dial the campness up to one-hundred with a mix of musical numbers, bizarre outfit changes and a prominent pair of pink glittery shoes.
Although the magic is undeniably impressive, some moments feel misplaced or clunky, most notably an elegant dance number in the middle of the performance. Whilst visually interesting, it offers little to the piece as a whole, feeling more like a filler segment compared to moments previous.
Despite this, Rabbits out of the Hat is a fun, family-friendly performance guaranteed to amaze even when it loses its way. The rivalry between Norvil and Josephine keeps the performance fresh whilst elements of musicality and acrobatics compliment an already impressive piece. One trick in particular involving an upright broom is sure to stun, leaving many audience members in the theatre with mouths agape. It’s within moments like these where the power of magic is at its most potent, looking away would be criminal and blinking is strongly inadvisable.
One for the family, Rabbits out of the Hat is a grounded work and a testament to traditional magic. Equally shocking and comforting, you’ll leave the theatre feeling more inspired then when you first entered.
Review written by Jessica King
