You’ll slip straight into Bristol’s Smoke & Mirrors for close-up bar magic before heading into their snug theatre for a night of comedy magic. Expect quick laughs, audience tricks (don’t worry — nothing scary), drinks delivered to your seat, and that rare sense of being part of something special.
You walk in and it’s like the place is already buzzing — not loud, just this low hum of people actually excited to be here. Smoke & Mirrors sits right off the street in Bristol, but inside it feels like you’ve ducked into a secret. Our local magician was already working the bar when we arrived (I nearly spilled my pint watching him make a coin vanish right in front of me — no idea how he did it). There’s something about the mix of old wood, laughter, and that faint smell of popcorn that makes you want to settle in and see what happens next.
We got ushered into the little theatre just before seven. It’s tiny — maybe 38 seats? — so everyone ends up chatting a bit while they’re sorting out drinks for the interval. The host was cracking jokes about “front row danger,” but honestly, even if you’re shy, nobody gets roasted too hard here. I liked that. The lights dimmed and suddenly you’re part of this thing — cards flying, jokes bouncing around the room, people gasping or snorting with laughter. At one point, our guide-magician pulled someone on stage for a trick with a borrowed ring (not mine, thank god), and I swear I still can’t figure out where it went.
The whole comedy magic show runs about ninety minutes with a break in the middle to top up your drink or just catch your breath from laughing. It never felt rushed or forced; more like being invited into someone’s living room where everyone’s in on the joke — except when you’re not, because… well, magic. I didn’t expect to feel so at home in such a small crowd of strangers, but there it was. Walking out onto Denmark Street after felt weirdly bright and ordinary by comparison.
Yes, entry is strictly for ages 18+ unless attending a family show or kids’ event.
The main show runs for 90 minutes including an interval.
Yes, food and drinks are served by staff before and during the interval.
Yes, seats are assigned by box office on arrival; larger parties may be split or share tables.
No, unless it is specifically a family or kids’ event; standard shows are 18+ only.
Yes, all areas including transport options are wheelchair accessible.
If you arrive after start time you’ll be seated during the interval.
Yes, service animals are permitted inside the venue.
Your night includes live entertainment from resident magicians with both close-up bar magic and a full-length comedy magic show in an intimate theatre setting. Staff will take care of your food and drink orders throughout — just sit back and enjoy every trick (and laugh) as it comes.
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