The Infamous Brothers Davenport

Last week I was lucky enough to go to the opening night of The Infamous Brothers Davenport  - a collaboration between the Lyceum theatre and Vox Motus. I didn't know much about the show other than it was promising "startling manifestations, amazing revelations, dark secrets and a spectacular stage séance". Goodness.

Production photo from the Lyceum's flickr

The play focuses on two brothers - Willie and Ira Davenport - who toured America as magicians in the 19th century. Their most famous illusion was the 'box illusion', a massive wooden box (clue is in the name) that had musical instruments in it. The brothers would be tied up in the box, the doors closed, and then the sound of music would come out (played by the spirits they had just summoned). Ooooh.

Original Bros. Good moustaches.

We headed into the theatre a little early (about ten minutes before it started) and were greeted by one of the characters from the stage, who invited us to go up and inspect all of the objects on stage. Whilst he was up looking Craig then got asked (by one of the leads who never broke character!) if he would be a "witness" to the magic taking place that night. Which lead to this.

Hi magic Craig!

Look at his lovely Victorian garb! 

I don't want to say too much (or anything really) in fear that I will spoil it... but I really loved the show. It had fun, scary moments (an audience member screamed at one point), and dark, disturbing parts (Willie Davenport was panting and bleeding just metres from my seat at one point... I was in the front row though!). It was creepy, intense and quite shocking in places, but also funny and very magical. And my boyfriend was in it!

The show is on until February 11th and tickets can be bought here.