Review of Asi Wind’s ‘Incredibly Human’: “As if by magic”

The internationally acclaimed illusionist lands on the London scene with his latest show, blending awe-striking tricks with heartfelt storytelling to create an experience that goes beyond the realms of fantasy. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show, to let us know if this spellbinding spectacle actually managed to left him without words.

If acting is regarded as the greatest lie, I wonder which name would suit the art of prestidigitation best. To fool audiences into believing that you have bigger powers other than a sharp mind and a quick hand twirl (not that those aren’t already impressive enough). And to make them question, even if it’s only for the tiniest second, if any of those wondrous tricks could actually be for real.

Of course, one has to understand that, if magic was true, those holding such rare skills would probably be spending their time in more important issues than standing on a stage wowing random people (like achieving world domination or taking revenge at their exes). However, I don’t think anyone could blame us for trying to keep that little flame of hope alive and trusting the impossible – especially, regarding the latter goal…

This Autumn, the West End takes another (and slightly different) bite from the New York scene, with the arrival of the internationally renowned illusionist Asi Wind and his latest show, Incredibly Human. A maze (no pun intended) of extraordinary numbers, combined with a most compelling, touching narrative, the montage is an absolute tour de force of theatrical craftsmanship – founded on the traditional concept of the inspirational, personal recount that leads to each performance, but effortlessly able to surpass all of its predecessors but concocting a cohesive, bonding and fairly intimate plot that provides both charm and rhythm to the whole experience.

Rich in emotion and poignant in thought, Wind’s easy-going yet highly magnetic presence is, by all means, one of the strongest assets in the production – building a connection with the viewer with confident solidity, and allowing them to feel part of the journey even when not put under the spotlight. The astonishment is finally unleashed (or perhaps, completed) through his unending list of genuinely astounding illusions, each of them, flaunting tremendous originality and power, as well as a great element of surprise – resulting in what’s probably the most thrilling magic show you’ll ever see in a while.

Extremely versatile, with a repertoire that ranges from the usual (though there’s nothing of the kind in this one) card tricks to memory games and musical jolts, there’s not a moment when the interest goes down – building an evening of unending enticement, where every bit will be succeeded by a resounding gasp and a thunderous applause. Commercials may recur to the tired tagline of “you’ve never watched anything like this”. Well, in all honesty, that may be the first time that phrase gets remotely close to a fact.

Magic isn’t real (I’m just saying this because you give me muggle vibes). And as much shocking as this may look, it’s not Wind’s purpose to make you think otherwise. It’s his artistic ability, nonetheless, that will give you enough stir to keep your mouth open in awe for the rest of the day. This is not a show featuring big sets or special effects. His talent and flair make up for it – and potentially, make it even more valuable. Be prepared to predict the unpredictable. And get ready for a night where all ideas of logic will be defied and, most possibly, crushed down. You won’t know how he does it. But you’ll love to come see him do it.

Watch our interview with Asi Wind here!

Pictures credit to Luke Adams and Mark Thomas.

Incredibly Human plays at London’s Underbelly Boulevard until 5 January. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara