Amaze at the New World Stages

By John Meyer

In the heart of Hells Kitchen, Amaze has arrived at New World Stages with a bang—and a sense of nostalgia. Starring British illusionist Jamie Allan, this auto-biographical driven magic show is a dazzling fusion of nostalgia, innovation, and emotional depth that’s captivating audiences of all ages.

Allan, known internationally for his blend of traditional magic brings a deep personal touch to Amaze. The show opens with a warm recollection of his childhood in the UK during the 1980s, setting the stage for a journey through memory, wonder, and transformation. Posters of magic legends like David Copperfield, Blackstone, Harry Houdini and Penn & Teller adorn the set, while snippets of retro music evoke a sense of time travel. It’s a clever setup that invites the audience, especially Gen Xers and their kids, to reflect on their own sense of wonder.

Amaze is more than a spectacle. It’s a narrative experience that weaves Allan’s life story into each illusion. From levitating his mother (played by Natalia Love) in a hauntingly beautiful tribute, to interactive tricks that involve audience members in real time, Allan’s performance is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. His charm and sincerity make even the most elaborate illusions feel intimate.

Critics have praised Amaze for its originality and heart. The Chicago Tribune called it “a master class in magic performance as emotional engagement,” while Penn & Teller themselves declared, “You will love this show. We did.” Theater Mania noted its appeal to families, especially children aged 8 to 12, but emphasized that adults will find plenty to marvel at too.

Running for 2 hours and 15 minutes with one intermission, Amaze is a rare theatrical experience that balances spectacle with soul. Whether you’re a lifelong magic enthusiast or a skeptic looking for a reason to believe, Jamie Allan’s Amazedelivers on its promise: to astonish, to move, and to remind us that magic is not just about tricks—it’s about connection.

In a city where spectacle is standard and storytelling are sacred; Jamie Allan’s Amaze manages to deliver both with finesse. Now playing at New World Stages, this Off-Broadway production is a genre-defying blend of illusion, autobiography, and theatrical innovation that redefines what a magic show can be.