Magic shows have been around for centuries—at least since the courts of the pharaohs. My earliest memory of “magic” goes back to when I was about ten years old, watching a clown perform a few basic tricks. Even then, I felt certain he was hiding something up his sleeve. It wasn’t magical to me—it was obvious misdirection. And honestly? Most of the magic I’ve seen since then has leaned on that same formula: flashy costumes, a stage assistant waving their arms around, and the audience politely applauding as a rabbit appears from nowhere.
By the time movies like The Prestige and The Illusionist came out, my skepticism had only deepened. Those films confirmed my suspicion that magic was little more than smoke, mirrors, and setups. Add to that the countless YouTube “reveal” videos showing how illusions work (or worse, showing that some audiences were in on the trick), and my interest in the genre had almost evaporated.
So when I started reading the glowing reviews of Amaze in both Chicago and London’s West End, I was more than a little curious. How could people, in this hyper-skeptical, internet-savvy age, still be getting swept away by magic?
Then I saw the tagline:
“Not just magic, an experience… a mind-bending journey where YOU become part of the impossible. Blending cutting-edge technology and timeless illusion puts the magic in your hands.”
That framing hooked me. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about pulling coins from behind ears—it was about creating an experience where the audience gets swept into the story. I realized that maybe people go to magic shows for two different reasons: some want to figure out the illusions, others want to suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride.
And if I can adore the trickery of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion (where I know full well it’s all illusions), why not give Amaze a chance? So, I rounded up some friends and headed to New York City’s New World Theatre where this show is currently playing to see it for myself.
The Experience at Amaze
First, the setting. The New World Theatre holds five stages, but the performance space for Amaze felt intimate—about 200 seats, all close enough to really feel part of the action. That intimacy set the stage for what was to come: magic that felt like it was happening for us, not just in front of us.
Before the show even officially began, the atmosphere was buzzing. We were greeted with nostalgic commercials from the 1980s and an absolutely killer ‘80s playlist. This wasn’t just background noise—it was part of the setup, warming us up, inviting us to engage before the curtain even rose.
We learned that during our show, Jamie Allan himself would be replaced by magician Harry de Cruz. Did it matter? Not at all. The performance was seamless, and it became clear that Amaze isn’t about one person—it’s about a carefully crafted experience.
Out of respect for the performers and the audience, we were asked not to spoil the specific illusions. And honestly, I’m glad. Because part of the thrill is not knowing what’s coming, and not being able to explain it even when you think you’ve figured it out.
Why Amaze Works for Everyone
What surprised me most is how Amaze balances nostalgia, storytelling, and innovation. The show isn’t filled with flashy distractions or assistants strutting across stage to pull your eye away from the trick. It’s not overloaded with lasers, smoke, or “presto-chango!” theatrics. Instead, it’s a thoughtful blend of styles that honors the history of magic while stripping away the clichés.
For skeptics like me, it was fascinating. I spent half the time analyzing, trying to decode the tricks, and still found myself stumped more often than not. For friends who just wanted to enjoy the ride, it was pure wonder—moments of jaw-dropping disbelief that left them grinning ear to ear.
And that’s the genius: it works for all ages and all types of audiences. Kids see the impossible happen right in front of them. Adults feel both nostalgic and challenged—nostalgic because it taps into the timeless joy of magic, and challenged because our logical brains just can’t keep up. Even those who roll their eyes at the idea of a magic show will walk away saying, “Okay… how did they DO that?”
The Real Magic
In the end, what Amaze gave me wasn’t just illusions—it was an incredibly polished experience. For someone who never truly loved magic as a child, I left with a new appreciation for it. The real magic wasn’t just the sleight of hand or the impossible feats—it was the feeling it stirred up. Wonder. Excitement. Connection.
And maybe that’s what keeps magic alive across generations. Not the tricks themselves, but the emotions they inspire.
If you’re in New York City and looking for something different—whether you’re a die-hard fan of illusions, a skeptic who’s “seen it all,” or just a family wanting a fun night out—Amaze is a must-see.
Because sometimes, even in our information-saturated world, it feels good to be… amazed.
You can learn more about the show and get your own tickets at online.
*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*
the mommy avenger 
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