Amaze
(Photo: Danny Kaan)
By Fern Siegel (Posted August 14, 2025)
Jamie Allan discovered his destiny at seven — when he went with his mother to an antique store. There, he found remnants of a magician’s craft — and that unexpected inheritance sealed his fate.
Lucky for his audience.
The esteemed British magician/illusionist is now in Amaze, off-Broadway at New World Stages, and delivers an astounding performance that marries eye-popping spectacle to memoir. Be it locked-box tricks, sleight of hand, disappearing acts or classic elements given his singular spin, Allan takes us on a journey of discovery, a compelling and entertaining experience.
Of special note, his levitation trick is nothing short of fantastic.
Allan’s childhood is key to his professional success, the only child of a singer mom and musician dad. Their support sets the stage for his future.
Today, he performs in large venues worldwide, but the intimacy of New World Stages, especially with sleight of hand, is a particular treat. We see the magic up close — and still can’t believe how he does it.
Allan also supplies a brief history lesson in magic and magicians, which adds color to his show. Everyone has heard of Houdini — but Cardini? Such detail provides context to a unique world.
In fact, the best way to enjoy Amaze is to sit back and prepare to be amazed.
Co-created with Tommy Bond, Amaze utilizes iPads, laser beams and tech to stun audiences. Allan is aided by director Jonathan Goodwin, set designer Damien Stanton, sound designer Ryan Borshuk and illusion director Richard Young. Together, they ensure his super-sized talent is a sensation. The moments of wonder are expected — but his finale is truly astounding.
Allan comes across as both devoted student and practitioner. He has never lost his initial joy — no matter how elaborate the trick. Plus, he has the gift of enveloping audiences in his life — as fully as his art.
The world is a tough, unpredictable place and news is a daily assault on sanity. If you long to escape into a magical realm of wow, then run, don’t walk, to Amaze. It’s the antidote to chaos — fun and captivating. Magicians may keep their secrets, but the public gets to share the results. And with Jamie Allan, it’s a sweet ride.