Thanks to guest reviewer William Spencer for submitting this review. “Believe” was performed by Mark Guest on the 22nd and 29th of September at the Phoenix Arts Club, London. William attended the show on the 29th of September on behalf of Magic Seats.
“BELIEVE THE HYPE – New cancer charity magic show by Mark Guest lives up to marketing promises.”
William Spencer
There’s a long list of magicians/showmen who have courted the media with ridiculous stunts, outrageous claims, and promises of glittering miracles. Houdini, Blaine, the great Daniels. Selling yourself well is vital in today’s noise.
Mark Guest packed out his first West End run of “Believe” through social media wizardry— his background in marketing played a huge part. But it’s the human story behind this show that is really compelling.
“Believe” is in aid of Guy’s Cancer Charity – following the loss of his friends Luke and Claire. It’s a tribute – “This is for you Luke” – and Mark’s way of giving hope to everyone else touched by cancer. “Life is too short.”
But this isn’t a charity show in an out-of-town scout hut. Mark has dreamt big and delivered huge— with a press night and two packed-to-the-rafters performances in the West End.
And boy is it slick. Glossy programme, hugs on arrival, and sound and video effects used throughout. Mark’s professional warmth drives the show; his stories of Luke, his byplay with the audience. Everyone was rooting for the magician. And that doesn’t happen often.
The emotional hook ran through the effects, be it a time and place prediction with a killer callback at the end, a predicted superstar, film, or dream holiday. Mark fed off the audience and brought it all to life. And the audience’s reactions spoke volumes.
There were hiccups in the show— reading minds isn’t easy— but the show built and built, and ended really strongly with ‘the fairest card trick in the world’. This was the trick everyone was talking about as they left the theatre.
All magicians seem to be doing magic with meaning these days. But when the message is this strong, the cause this great, and the delivery this good. This is a show to see, and a new magician to follow.
“Believe” will be coming to Upstairs at the Gatehouse & The Royal Vauxhall Tavern soon. Keep an eye on his socials for more info.
@magicmark15
Magic Seats Musing
Thank you to William Spencer for writing and submitting this excellent review. It captures the show’s details well, highlighting Mark’s passion for magic and dedication to present “Believe” to the highest professional standards.
I was fortunate enough to also view the glossy PDF version of the programme, which was also available in print. This was a rare and extra nice touch that many magicians/performers do not offer. I’ve also been impressed with the photos sent to support this review by Steve Kraitt – SK Brand Photography. The shots beautifully capture the high levels of interactivity with the audience and excellent staging. Steve’s confidence and enthusiasm are also captured.
While chatting with Mark, he mentioned that although no date is set at the moment, he will be performing again at the Phoenix. He also has other shows planned at Royal Vauxhall Tavern on the 22nd of January and at the Gatehouse (details to be confirmed).
I understand that both shows were sold out, and I would recommend visiting Marks’ social pages to view more videos and information that capture the event. Certainly, the videos that I have viewed highlight Marks’ abilities as a showman. Please do view the video after the second gallery that captures actual show footage and quotes.
To donate, please visit Marks Guests Just Giving page. Just Giving
To read other reviews, please visit the “London Theatre” website and “All That Dazzles.”
https://www.londontheatre1.com/reviews/mark-guest-believe-calder-bookshop-theatre-review/
https://www.allthatdazzles.co.uk/post/review-mark-guest-believe-calder-bookshop
