Wayne Dobson, a former star magician on ITV, whose illustrious career was tragically curtailed by Multiple Sclerosis 30 years ago, is set to make a triumphant comeback to the West End with a tribute show where he will showcase his magic once more.
The spectacular evening of magic and illusion, titled ‘One Night Only – An Evening with Wayne Dobson and Friends’, will grace the esteemed stage of His Majesty’s Theatre on September 17th, 2023.
Hailing from Leicester, Wayne Dobson enjoyed a dazzling career that included three prime time series ‘A Kind of Magic’ on ITV, each attracting over 11 million viewers. His breakthrough moment came in 1989 when he stole the spotlight on The Royal Variety Show, garnering rave reviews. Throughout the 1990s, Wayne embarked on a UK tour with the largest travelling illusion show ever witnessed in the country.
However, destiny dealt Wayne a cruel hand; as his career soared, he was confronted with a diagnosis of MS. Gradually, the disease robbed him of his ability to walk, the use of his hands, confined him to a wheelchair, and affected his speech. In spite of these challenges, Wayne persevered, primarily performing for fellow magicians around the world at magic events. He returned to the public stage two years ago with his one-man show, receiving widespread acclaim.
Reflecting on his journey, Wayne Dobson shared, “It was in Denver, Colorado, 20 years ago. After performing for the public, I looked at myself in the dressing room mirror and thought, ‘That’s it. I’m finished.’ I continued performing for magicians worldwide and inventing magic tricks for them, but I doubted that the public would embrace a comedy magician in a wheelchair.”
“Two years ago, I decided to test the waters with a couple of one-man shows for the public in intimate venues, and the overwhelming reactions and love I received were beyond my imagination. So, I’ve continued performing shows, and despite being in a wheelchair with speech challenges, the shows have grown in strength and have been incredibly well-received.”
“Now, I’m making a bold return to the West End, gracing a major theatre for one unforgettable night. I’m immensely proud of the show that I and my showbiz friends have put together, and I hope the public will come to see me while also supporting the MS Society.”
Wayne is brimming with excitement as he brings together an exceptional cast:
- Wayne Dobson: Magic legend, renowned for TV’s ‘A Kind of Magic’, performing alongside onstage partner Mike Sullivan.
- Hans Klok: Las Vegas headliner, a master illusionist, and a magic superstar, making a UK comeback after 8 years.
- Sooty with Richard Cadell: Celebrating Sooty’s 75th year, presented live on stage.
- Richard Cadell: Illusionist, appearing with Linda Lusardi, Wayne’s onscreen assistant from ‘A Kind of Magic’.
- Paul Zerdin: Star ventriloquist, Winner of America’s Got Talent, and headliner of London Palladium’s annual panto show.
- Kayden Black: International illusionist and star of the ‘Illusion Impossible’ touring show.
- Scott Penrose: Former President of The Magic Circle, an award-winning magician, and inventor.
- GLOWE: Singing sensation, featured on Netflix and Radio 1.
- Award-winning magician and Wayne’s performing partner.
- Clinton Baptiste: Comedy psychic from Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights, hosting the night’s proceedings.
The West End revival promises to be an unforgettable evening, marking Wayne Dobson’s triumphant return to the spotlight while raising support for the MS Society.