The international hit magic spectacular The Illusionists is back on Broadway for the holiday season with an all-new show at the Neil Simon Theatre, and returning as the evening's charming, funny, and flamboyant emcee is Jeff Hobson, known as The Trickster.
Below, BroadwayBox kicks off our weekly new Meet the Magician series as we get to know more about Jeff Hobson.
1. The first trick or illusion I ever learned was:
I was born with a mustache which tickled my mother to death. Sorry, I’m lying. Actually, my first trick was a Penny-to-Dime trick.
I guess it was then that I knew I could make money with magic. Ta-Da!
2. The moment I knew I wanted to pursue this professionally was:
From the moment I witnessed my first, live, magic show at the age of 7, I was hooked and told my friends that I wanted to be
a magician when I grew up. I did become a magician but I never grew up.
3. Greatest thing about being part of The Illusionists’ Band of Brothers:
We are like a family. We have respect for each other but can laugh and play as well. There are no primadonnas in the cast besides me.
4. My favorite film, TV show or play about a magician is:
An obsure “B” movie called Magic Man starring Billy Zane. I was the magic consultant on the film and I ended up performing in it as well
at the urging of Mr. Zane. It really was an awful movie but I had fun and learned much about the film business.
5. My favorite city in the world to perform in:
It was Las Vegas during the times when the casinos actually bought shows that they were proud of. Now, Las Vegas is mostly a rental space
for entertainers to put their shows in. My new favorite city to perform in is New York. The audiences seems to enjoy my irreverent humor.
6. One thing I always have with me when I travel:
My coffee press.
7. Person who inspires me professionally:
The actor, Anthony Hopkins.
See Jeff Hobson and the other fantastic Illusionists at Broadway's Neil Simon Theatre through January 3, 2016.
