Madness: Reality or Illusion
As performed at Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2018
As a Special Commission by the Edinburgh Art Festival and part of Ruth Ewan's Sympathetic Magick, I wrote, produced, and performed this show during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2018 at The Pleasance Courtyard and Palm House.
‘Madness: Reality or Illusion?' is a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of what is real and what is not; how do we know, and who decides?
Find answers and a new way of seeing things
Drawing on my extensive background in mental health, magic, and spirituality, I invite the audience to delve into these intriguing questions. Through captivating magic tricks, engaging stories, and personal experiences from my time as a mental health nurse, I illustrate my musings in a way that is both enlightening and entertaining.
Informative and entertaining
Initially publishing a paper in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (2011), this show serves as a cross between a lecture and a magic performance, exploring social construction theory, power dynamics, and how we create our frames of reference. Before fully committing to my role as a close-up professional magician, I spent over 20 years in healthcare and education. My career has included practice, research, and academia, culminating in my role as a Mental Health Trainer and Consultant.
Performance through experience
Having lived through my own experiences with mental health, I possess a unique insight into perceiving the world from diverse viewpoints. This perspective, combined with my passion for magic and a rich interest in spirituality, allows me to craft a distinctive, thought-provoking, and entertaining performance.
Following the 60-minute show, I invite audience members to engage in discussions regarding its content. It's an excellent opportunity for participants to reflect on their thoughts and feelings about the themes presented, creating a memorable experience that resonates long after the event.
Book A Magic Show that Enlightens the mind
If you are looking for a mental health magician who can provide a captivating performance that not only entertains but also encourages deep reflection, then ‘Madness: Reality or Illusion?' is perfect for your next event.
Questions and Answers
What is 'Madness: Reality or Illusion?' about?
'Madness: Reality or Illusion?' is a performance that explores the concepts of reality and illusion through magic, mental health insights, and personal stories.
Who created the show?
The show was created by Jim, a mental health professional and magician with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and education.
What can audiences expect from the performance?
Audiences can expect a captivating blend of magic tricks, engaging stories, and discussions on mental health and perception.
Is there an opportunity for audience interaction?
Yes, after the performance, audience members are invited to engage in discussions about the themes presented, promoting reflection.
How long does the show last?
The performance lasts approximately 60 minutes, followed by audience discussions.
Who is the target audience for this show?
The show is suitable for diverse audiences, ranging from small groups to larger gatherings, interested in mental health and magic.
How can I book a performance?
You can book a show by contacting Jim via email at jim@beyondbeliefmagic.co.uk or by calling 07739 843 706.
What is the main theme of the show?
The main theme revolves around questioning the nature of reality and illusion, and how our perceptions shape our understanding of the world.
Contact Jim here
Feel free to reach out to me to book a show or talk for your group.
My performances cater to audiences of all sizes, from 2 to 200.