DHAHRAN: “Metaverse of Magic,” a new immersive experience that recently premiered and will run until Feb. 2 at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture or Ithra, taps into the power of technology to create stunning, theatrical illusions performed by world-renowned illusionists.
While Ithra usually instructs audience members to put their phones away at the theater, the show breaks protocol and encourages the use of smartphones to play along. Those who choose to participate can also win prizes, including a Sony PS5.
Hosted by the self-described “peddler of comedy and mischief” Jarred Fell, the cast includes global artists Charli Ashby, Hara, Horret Wu, Sabine Van Diemen and Erin Bruce as illusionists in their various acts, as well as five dedicated dancers who help the audience take a quick visual break and transition from one trick to the next.
“Bringing together the most renowned illusionists from around the globe, this game-changing theatrical epic combines breathtaking illusions, stunning stagecraft and cutting-edge technology in an astounding extravaganza that has something for everyone,” an official statement reads.
In a hybrid immersive experience, humans interact on stage with a digital screen showcasing travel through the Metaverse to face four masters of illusion, unlocking the secrets of magic along the way.
HIGHLIGHTS
• ‘Multiverse of Magic,’ being held at Ithra, is an interactive showcase that invites the audience to participate using their smartphones.
• It is hosted by the self- described ‘peddler of comedy and mischief’ Jarred Fell.
The show merges reality with the Metaverse by taking the audience on several quests to go through the four pillars of magic: legacy, wisdom, creativity, and courage.
“With your personal smart device in hand, you’ll become an active participant in the performance, joining forces with the incredible i-Gen magician Lenoxx (Ash Hodgkinson, known as Ash Magic) and the all-knowing Game Master DIGI,” Ithra wrote in a statement. “Together, you’ll embark on an enchanting quest to unveil the secrets of four masters of illusion, striving to gain entry to the esteemed Inner Realm. As you progress, you’ll earn points and rewards, ultimately unlocking the secrets of magic, both past and future.”
Ithra recommends you charge your phone fully before taking your seat and connect via the designated “Metaverse” Wi-Fi connection that was created for the occasion. After scanning the QR code on display, you will find your phone instantly updating to the next game or quest in real time. There is a scoreboard that appears on the stage’s screen after each of the four quests. You can choose to play one or all of the games and stop at any time.
You can also watch and enjoy the show without ever taking your smartphone out of your pocket. There are several old-fashioned magical tricks on stage. And, as in many live magic shows, the host, Fell, asks audience volunteers to go up on stage to help with a trick, or a few.
Regardless of how you choose to participate, all phones must be on silent throughout the show to ensure that the immersive experience is enjoyed by everyone.
On opening night, Arab News spoke to a 21-year-old artist who goes by “Line.” His father purchased the ticket for him on the fly and they came together.
“I didn’t know anything about the show … I didn’t expect anything. I hadn’t gone to something like this before within the country, but I did in private places with a couple of friends. Level one of this show was fun. The guessing game was pretty easy,” he told Arab News.
“For feedback, I think they should rethink the flashing lights and colors. As I’m colorblind, sometimes it’s hard for me to tell what is happening,” he said.
The Ithra website does contain a disclaimer that the performance features strobe lighting and haze.
With 12 performances total, most are between 7-9 p.m., but there are a few earlier showings. On Jan. 30 and Feb. 1, there will be a show from 10 a.m. until noon as well as one on each of those nights. On the final night, Feb. 2, there will be a show from 4:30-6:30 p.m. then from 8-10 p.m.
Tickets start at SR100 ($26) and can be purchased via the Ithra website or app. Those who purchased Ithra’s Art and Premium memberships can receive a 20 percent discount on their “Metaverse of Magic” tickets.
For more details, visit ithra.com.
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