The circus is back in town—minus the tent, but bursting with magic! Michael Boyd brings the razzle-dazzle with Circus of Illusion, a glittering spectacle packed with aerial acrobatics, dazzling dancers, and of course, the master of mystery himself.
Set in the stunning surrounds of the State Theatre, this two-act extravaganza runs at a neat and lively pace: two forty-five minute halves with a short intermission to catch your breath (or pick your jaw up off the floor). From the moment the curtain rises, it’s clear: this isn’t your average night at the theatre.
Boyd is no ordinary magician; he’s a world-class illusionist who’s left audiences spellbound across the globe. From levitating high above the stage to balancing on the tip of a sword, his tricks are as mystifying as they are mesmerising. A finalist on Australia’s Got Talent, Boyd has transformed his gift into a full-time touring production company that keeps the magic alive year-round.
His story began at age 13, when he discovered his grandfather had been a magician. That family secret lit a spark. He’s been chasing the wonder ever since, sharing his passion for illusion and showmanship with audiences far and wide.
Circus of Illusion is a feast for the senses, and it all begins before the curtain even rises. The stage is bathed in rich circus-red lighting, framed by dramatic red curtains and a glowing halo of LED lights that circle the performance space like a magical ringmaster’s spotlight. Jaunty circus tunes fill the theatre, setting the tone for a night of old-school spectacle with a modern twist. The audience—families with wide eyes and popcorn in hand—is buzzing with anticipation. The magic is about to begin.
Ringmaster Idris Stanbury opens the show and warms up the audience. Using humour, he gets the adults on his side and wins the kids over with juggling whilst rocking out to rock ‘n roll hits. He is warm, likeable and prepared for almost anything, including juggling with a saw whilst it’s on!
Michael Boyd, creator, producer, and the star of the show, doesn’t just perform illusions. He lives them. His spellbinding skills leaves the audience wide-eyed. But what truly elevates the experience is the personal touch. Boyd weaves in stories from his family’s magical lineage, giving the performance heart as well as spectacle. It’s clear he’s not only a master of illusion, but a passionate torchbearer, keen to inspire the next generation of magicians.
Audience participation keeps the energy high, with kids invited onstage to become part of the magic themselves. Watching their faces light up with wonder is pure joy, and surely a memory they’ll never forget.
Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Sascha Williams has the audience gripping their seats during his jaw-dropping rola bola routine. Balancing on an increasingly precarious stack of boards, cylinders, even a ladder, he takes things to the next level by casually shredding on an electric guitar. The crowd held its breath with every wobble and cheer. It is a heart-stopping, high-energy act and a perfect adrenaline-fuelled finale to the first half.
Aleisha Manion features in both acts of the show and is mesmerising on the aerial hoop. Performed to a slowed-down version of Britney Spears Toxic, it is a beautiful and effortless performance that stands out as a highlight of the night.
Lighting design by Jeremy Dhen keeps the energy high and the atmosphere electric. With the stage mostly bare, except for a few cleverly concealed props, the lighting steps in to paint the scene. Bursts of colour shift with each act, adding drama, mystery, and a touch of sparkle to every illusion. It’s a visual treat that helps transform a simple stage into a world of wonder.
If you’ve got a little magician in the family, or if your inner child still believes in a little hocus pocus, Circus of Illusion is just the ticket. With colourful costumes, world-class performers, and great music, this show brings a slice of Vegas glitz to the heart of Sydney. It’s a magical night out that will leave you wondering, “How did they do that?”
Circus of Illusion runs for two shows only on Saturday 19 April at State Theatre Sydney. It then transfers to Brisbane on Monday 21 April where it runs at Fortitude Music Hall for two shows only.
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/artist/2767004
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/circus.of.illusion/
Images supplied.
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