A Regular Little Houdini
About the show
59E59 presents this one-man play from Daniel LLewelyn-Williams about a Welsh dockworker's son at the turn of the last century, who, smitten by Harry Houdini, dreams of a life of magic. More…
His parents struggle with their son’s eccentricity, but doggedly training himself to emulate his hero on the industrial detritus, his relentless ambition finally brings him face-to-face with the world’s greatest showman - and one of the most terrifying events in British industrial history. Is it possible to follow one’s dreams when poverty weighs you down like mud? An story that blends childhood imagination with the cynicism of adulthood. A tale of hope, determination, and magic.
“The show itself feels unfocused in overarching theme and purpose. It takes a good amount of time to get to the first compelling tale of adventure, with a great deal of meandering. I found myself lost in the direction of this story at certain moments...Llewelyn-Williams sure can pull you in when the narrative is there, but work needs to be done to weave these components into a solid coming of age story. And more magic, much more magic is needed, literally and figuratively speaking.” Full Review
"If only Daniel Llewelyn-Williams were able to tap more liberally into some of that razzle-dazzle, then perhaps his solo show would stir up more excitement than the occasional sparks that flare up briefly...Ultimately, 'A Regular Little Houdini' is less of a play than it is a piece of storytelling...It is sorely in need of some old-fashioned theater magic to make it feel like it is more than just an anecdote or a family story that has become a staple at the holiday get-together." Full Review
"While Llewlyn-Williams who stars in this one man show is full of charm and appeal, that is not enough to sustain an 86 minute show. The character he plays is sweet and likable. However, the story is a bit hard to follow at times and a big draggy at others...The show might have benefited from a little more magic both literal and figurative. It is worth seeing this show to see the delightful Llewyn-Williams. However, hopefully he will come back in a show that is more worthy of his talent soon." Full Review
for a previous production "This pacy one-man show with a strong sense of place...Llewelyn-Williams’s gabby protagonist is like a bright lantern lowered into a dark pocket of Welsh history...There’s little space for reflection or unification of these themes. Instead 'A Regular Little Houdini' is a show full of youthful momentum. Alan’s own daredevil stunt is grippingly told...Making a merit of the Warren’s claustrophobic space, this is both a breathless yarn and a dynamic account of Welsh history." Full Review
See it if you want to see an actor with a lot of charm and personality performing in a one man show
Don't see it if you don't like one person shows especially ones that are too focused on one very narrow topic or you're expecting a show with a lot of magic
Cast & Creatives (5)
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