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Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Experience 1 hour 45 minutes of comedy and magic at Bristol's Smoke & Mirrors, featuring talented magicians, audience participation, and lively atmosphere.
If you’re on the hunt for a unique evening activity in Bristol, the House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors is a fantastic choice. This 1-hour 45-minute performance combines hilarious comedy with mind-boggling magic, all set within a cozy, 1920s-style theater located in Bristol’s bustling Theatre District. With glowing reviews and a consistent 5-star rating, it’s clear this show has mastered the art of delivering memorable entertainment.
What really stands out about this experience is the intimacy of the venue. With just about 40 seats, you’re positioned close enough to marvel at the magic tricks and share laughs with the performers. Plus, the venue’s lively pub atmosphere means you can grab a drink or a bite before the show begins. The only consideration? Since tickets tend to sell about 19 days in advance and are booked quickly, planning ahead is essential. This experience is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of comedy, magic, and a relaxed, social vibe. Whether you’re a magic enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this show hits the right notes.
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Arriving at Smoke & Mirrors, you’re greeted by a friendly in-house magician who kicks off the evening with close-up tricks. This sets a playful tone for the night, giving everyone a sneak peek of what’s to come. The venue, styled in a charming 1920s theme, seats approximately 40 guests in a cozy, welcoming space. The intimate setting means you’ll be mere feet from the performers, which reviewers say makes the magic even more astonishing.
The pub atmosphere means you can enjoy a drink or bite to eat before the show. Reviewers frequently praise the fairly priced drinks and friendly staff, adding to the relaxed vibe. The venue’s small size ensures that everyone feels involved, whether through participation or simply watching the illusions unfold.
At around 7:45 pm, guests are invited to settle into their seats, with the theatre host taking care of table assignments and collecting drinks orders for the interval. The show kicks off promptly at 8 pm, with two resident comedy magicians taking the stage for a 90-minute performance filled with illusions, jokes, and audience interaction.
The magic style is fun and accessible — you don’t need to be a magic nerd to enjoy it. Audience participation is a key feature, but not forceful or intimidating. One reviewer noted that the magicians handle involvement “really well,” making it enjoyable for everyone, whether you want to be in the spotlight or just watch the fun unfold.
Guests consistently praise the talent and humor of the magicians. Many reviews highlight Richard Newman as a standout performer; they mention his “brilliant” energy and “hilarious” style. The magicians’ skill level is high, but they keep the atmosphere light and entertaining. The mix of magic and comedy means you’ll be laughing and marveling in quick succession, with some tricks leaving even seasoned skeptics scratching their heads.
The audience’s involvement is carefully managed, ensuring no one feels uncomfortable but still feels part of the show. It’s this balance that makes the experience enjoyable for all ages—though, as the venue’s strict age policy states, this is an 18+ experience due to language and content.
The vintage theme of the theatre adds a layer of charm, creating a warm, intimate environment that amplifies the magic. Reviewers often mention the “electric atmosphere” and the “great character” of the venue, which makes the night feel special. The small group size fosters a sense of community, with many saying they felt like part of a private party rather than just another ticket holder.
While tickets are priced at around $33, many reviewers find this to be excellent value for the quality of entertainment. The venue offers a variety of food options—notably, the delicious pizzas are highlighted as “authentic and thin”—perfect for nibbling during the show. Drinks are reasonably priced, and the venue’s staff are attentive, making the night smooth from arrival through to the last laugh.
The inclusion of drinks during the interval adds to the relaxed, social vibe, making the evening feel more like a gathering among friends than a typical performance. Since food and drinks are at your own expense, budget accordingly if you want to indulge in the pub menu.
This show is ideal for adults who enjoy comedy and magic combined with a lively, social atmosphere. It suits those looking for a night out that’s different from the usual theatre or bar scene. The small, intimate venue and audience participation make it a good choice for friends, couples, or even small groups celebrating a special occasion.
If you’re after a fun, light-hearted evening full of surprises, you’ll likely leave with a smile and some awe-inspiring stories. Just remember to book early, as tickets are highly popular and tend to sell out well in advance.
The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors offers a fantastic night out in Bristol, blending top-tier magic with hilarious comedy in a uniquely intimate setting. The small venue fosters a personal experience, with audience participation adding an extra layer of fun. The accessible price point, combined with tasty pub food and drinks, makes this experience both affordable and memorable.
Perfect for groups seeking entertainment with a convivial atmosphere, or couples looking for something different, this show brings surprises, laughs, and jaw-dropping illusions all in one package. The consistently glowing reviews highlight its popularity — and for good reason.
If you’re keen to see talented magicians perform up close, enjoy some hearty laughs, and soak in a vintage vibe, this show should be high on your Bristol itinerary. Just remember to reserve your tickets early to avoid missing out on this magical evening.
This show offers a lively, interactive experience that’s perfect for those wanting a good laugh and a few moments of astonishment. We’re confident it’ll make a memorable addition to your Bristol trip.