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Harry Houdini meets Arthur Conan Doyle in Magic play

Harry Houdini and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle—two of history’s most iconic figures—collide in Magic, a brand-new world premiere play by Olivier Award-winner David Haig (Pressure, Killing Eve).

Originally developed for a premiere at London’s Bridge Theatre, this highly anticipated high-stakes drama now makes its world debut at the Chichester Festival Theatre from 24 April – 16 May 2026. Directed by Lucy Bailey (The Other Boleyn Girl), the production explores the extraordinary real-life friendship and intellectual rivalry between the world’s greatest illusionist and the creator of Sherlock Holmes. Set against the backdrop of 1926, marking the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s death, the play asks what we are truly prepared to believe.

West End Transfer & London Theatre Tickets

While a West End transfer for Magic has not yet been officially announced, the production’s history with the Bridge Theatre and its premiere at Chichester suggest a strong path toward a London run. Chichester Festival Theatre has an exceptional track record for West End transfers; currently, six of its previous productions are playing in London or on tour. Sign-up for ticket & news alerts for Magic starring David Haig and Hadley Fraser.

The Story: A Battle of Wits

Set against the backdrop of a growing obsession with spiritualism, the story follows the unlikely friendship—and eventual ideological battle—between illusionist Harry Houdini and author Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes. As Conan Doyle searches desperately for proof of life beyond death following the loss of his son, Houdini becomes determined to expose spiritualism as deception. What begins as mutual admiration turns into a fierce conflict over belief, truth, and the human need for hope.

Cast and Creative Team Highlights

  • Hadley Fraser: Stars as Harry Houdini, following acclaimed West End roles in The Lehman Trilogy and 2:22 A Ghost Story.
  • David Haig: The Olivier Award-winning writer also stars as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.+2
  • Jenna Augen: Plays Bess Houdini.
  • Claire Price: Plays Jean Conan Doyle.
  • Illusion Design: Featuring breath-taking stage magic designed by John Bulleid.

Magic Play: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the play Magic about?

Magic explores the true-life rivalry between illusionist Harry Houdini and author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Set in 1926, the story follows their clash over spiritualism: Conan Doyle seeks a psychic connection with his late son, while Houdini is determined to expose the movement as a fraud.

Is Magic coming to the London West End?

While a West End transfer has not been officially announced, Magic was originally developed for a premiere at London’s Bridge Theatre. Given Chichester’s strong record of London transfers, a West End run is highly anticipated for the 2026/27 season.

When does the play Magic open?

The world premiere of Magic runs at the Chichester Festival Theatre from 24 April to 16 May 2026.

Where can I book tickets for Magic?

Tickets for the Chichester run are available via the Chichester Festival Theatre box office starting February 2026. For potential West End transfer dates, you can register for our email alerts to receive a booking link as soon as they are announced.

Who is in the cast of Magic?

The production stars Hadley Fraser as Harry Houdini and David Haig as Arthur Conan Doyle. The company also features Jenna Augen as Bess Houdini and Claire Price as Jean Conan Doyle.

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Stars and Creatives

Who is in the cast of Magic?

The world premiere cast is led by:

  • David Haig as Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Hadley Fraser as Harry Houdini

Also starring:

  • Jenna Augen as Bess Houdini
  • Claire Price as Jean Conan Doyle
  • Ben Jones, Marc Serratosa, Ella Tekere, François Testory, Jade Williams, Kristin Wei Wong

Who are the creative team of Magic?

  • Directed by: Lucy Bailey
  • Designer: Joanna Parker
  • Lighting Designer: Aideen Malone
  • Illusion Designer: John Bulleid
  • Composer: Orlando Gough
  • Sound Designer: Beth Duke
  • Video Designer: Dick Straker
  • Movement Director: Ayse Tashkiran
  • Fight Director: Kate Waters
  • Casting Director: Ginny Schiller CDG

Venue Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Magic has matinee performances on the following days:
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