The Illusionists 1903 Set for Arts Centre Melbourne in January

Featuring brand-new, world class illusionists handpicked from across the globe, The Illusionists 1903 promises to transport the audience back to the golden age of magic, a time when conjurers were the true rock stars of the day. The performance can be seen at Arts Centre Melbourne's State Theatre season from 2 - 10 January 2016.

Showcasing the origins of some of the greatest and most dangerous illusions ever built, the show also unveils never-seen-before experiments drawn from a treasure trove of long-forgotten mysteries. The true art of magic will be explored in exquisite, turn of the century grandeur in this larger than life production from the acclaimed creative team behind international mega hits The Illusionists and The Illusionists 2.0.

Inspired by the magicians of yesteryear, including the great Houdini, in this world class spectacular audiences will discover first-hand the spectacles that transformed stage entertainment over 100 years ago.

The Illusionists 1903 features a cast of world famous magicians playing incredible characters, never before seen by Melbourne audiences, with each embodying the magical greats of the past, including:

The Eccentric

Rooted in history as a part of the famed vaudevillian variety shows of the early 20th century, The Eccentric marries physical comedy with virtuosic skill and mastery, showcasing world-class juggling and sleight of hand in an act that keeps audiences laughing and applauding all at once.

The Immortal

The Immortal is the ultimate connoisseur of golden age magic, specializing in illusions which have stood the test of time. His montage of turn-of-the-century grandeur includes the greatest levitation act in the world.

The Conjuress

A mistress of the occult and master of the mystical, The Conjuress highlights all that was beautiful and breathtaking during the Golden Age of Magic. Her mesmerizing and peaceful presence provides the perfect counterbalance to the more boisterous characters of the age.

The Showman

The voice of "1903", The Showman lives for the accolades of the crowd. Performing classic showstoppers such as the infamous and deadly bullet catch, his charisma and panache charm the audience, embodying what gave golden age magicians their meteoric rise to fame and popularity.

The Escapist

Recreating the most iconic stunt in the history of magic, The Escapist performs Houdini's death defying, turn-of-the-century escape from the 'Water Torture Cell'. Bound, shackled and submerged in water, audiences are treated to the same near death experience that enthralled patrons wherever the Great Houdini performed.

The Clairvoyants

No journey into the 'Golden Age of Magic' would be complete without The Clairvoyants. These mentalists of the early twentieth century penetrate deep into the hearts and minds of even the most firm skeptic.

The Charlatan

"There's a sucker born every minute" may have been a phrase coined by P.T. Barnum, but The Charlatan has made this his mantra. Don't be fooled by his simple, folksy demeanor, or you are likely to miss his tricky ways.

Tickets $49 - $140 www.artscentremelbourne.com.au or phone 1300 182 183

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