The Disappearing Man

One last act. One final illusion. But every trick has a price...

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 – Sat, 31 Oct 2026 Queen’s Theatre Book tickets

Featuring live onstage magic, The Disappearing Man is new drama about legacy and second chances from local Essex playwright Kenny Emson. Returning to the once-glittering Clacton-on-Sea, Bazza Cadabra is ready for a final comeback, determined to reclaim the spotlight and prove he’s still got what it takes 20 years after his prime. But at the heart of his ambition is something far more fragile: his re-kindled relationship with his son. As Bazza faces a flashy young magician, a no-nonsense new manager and the family he left behind, their reunion sparks hope, rivalry, and the possibility of something extraordinary. 

Casting will feature Matt Bardock (New Blood, BBC, Casualty, BBC, A Touch of Frost, ITV) as magician Bazza Cadabra alongside Debra Baker (Unforgotten, ITV, Doctor Who, BBC) as Barry's sharp-witted ex-wife Wendy, the mother of his son. Produced in collaboration with HighTide, The Disappearing Man will premiere at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch before weeklong runs at Blackpool Grand Theatre, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guilford and Key Theatre Peterborough in November.

Actor Matt Bardock said, “I’ve got a fair few tricks to perform throughout the production. We have a bullet catch to do, some card tricks to do, some flowers to produce, and some juggling. It’s a beautifully written play that approaches mental health through the world of magic. The proposition honestly scares and thrills me in equal measure. I can’t then think of a reason not to do it!”

Where: Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, Billet Ln, Hornchurch RM11 1QT

When: 15 – 31 October Mon – Sat 7:30pm, Sat 2:30pm

Tickets: £30.70 – £14.70, Under 26s £10.00

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Other Tour Dates

  • 3 – 7 Nov Grand Theatre, Blackpool
  • 10 – 14 Nov The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford
  • 17 – 21 Nov  Key Theatre, Peterborough

Venue details

Address:
Queen’s Theatre
Billet Lane
Hornchurch
RM11 1QT
Contact:

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