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Haig Dramatizes Doyle & Houdini's Spiritualist Feud
6 May
Summary
- Play explores the fraught friendship between Arthur Conan Doyle and Harry Houdini.
- Doyle's grief over his son's death fuels his belief in spiritualism.
- Houdini, the illusionist, clashes with Doyle over the reality of seances.
David Haig, known for historical bio-dramas, presents "Magic," a play exploring the intense friendship between author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and illusionist Harry Houdini. Set between the wars, the drama highlights Doyle's deep grief following the loss of his son, a sorrow that propelled him towards the spiritualist movement.
This pursuit of spiritual solace created significant tension with Houdini, the skeptical illusionist. Houdini viewed seances as theatrical trickery, similar to his own escapes from perilous situations. He became alarmed by Doyle's belief in his supernatural abilities, leading to profound debates about belief and reality.
The production, directed by Lucy Bailey, effectively captures the period suspense and features compelling performances. Hadley Fraser embodies Houdini's showmanship and sharp intellect, while Claire Price and Jenna Augen add depth as their respective wives. The play masterfully probes societal beliefs and the reasons behind them.
