Theatre of Magic Archives

Josh Norbido is different from your average magician. With accolades from celebrities and technical consulting roles for Hollywood movies, he has carved out a niche as one of the most captivating magicians in Australia.

The high praises he received from Nicole Scherzinger and Chef Manu Feildel is just the tip of the iceberg for a man whose technical prowess with a deck of cards earned him a consulting role for Cate Blanchett in preparation for her role in Ocean’s 8. Additionally, he was the lead card shuffling consultant for Russell Crowe’s 2022 movie Poker Face.

First Memory of Magic

“My first ever memory of magic was witnessing a thumb being pulled off at the age of six. It was mind-blowing,” Josh recalls. This childhood wonder sparked a lifelong passion for magic.

Go-to Magic Moment

For Josh, the most enchanting moments are those that happen in the spectator’s own hands. “It’s always the magic that happens in the spectator’s very own hands,” he says, highlighting his performances’ personal and intimate nature.

Magic Inspirations

Josh draws inspiration from some of the greatest names in magic, including David Blaine, Asi Wind, Steve Cohen, and France’s David Stone.

Why People Love Magic

According to Josh, “The older we get, the less magical the world becomes. Magic is one of the few things left that can still give people the true feeling of wonder.” This belief underscores his dedication to his craft and his desire to bring joy and amazement to his audiences.

Beyond the Spotlight

Favorite Animal, Food, Drink: “Dogs 4 life. Shepherd’s Pie, Southern Comfort & Coke,” Josh reveals, showcasing his down-to-earth and relatable side.

Most Embarrassing Moment

Even seasoned performers have their mishaps. Josh recalls, “Being on stage and having a raw egg break in my jacket pocket with 40 minutes of the show still to go.” Such moments add a layer of humility to his charismatic persona.

Alternate Career Path

If he weren’t a world-famous magician, Josh envisions himself as a quirky personal trainer, combining his love for fitness with his unique personality.

Theatre of Magic

In three words, Josh describes his show, Theatre of Magic, as “Surprise, Happiness, Laughter.” This trifecta of emotions is what he aims to deliver in every performance.

Bridgeman Downs magician Josh Norbido still feels on cloud nine as his dreams finally come true, helping weave a new chapter in Brisbane’s entertainment story. “This format of magic doesn’t exist anywhere else in Queensland, so being able to bring this to the city I’ve grown up in is a dream come true,” Norbido said.

Josh Norbido’s journey from a fascinated six-year-old to a world-renowned magician is a testament to his dedication and passion for the art of magic. With Theatre of Magic, he continues to enchant and amaze, ensuring that the magic never fades from our lives.

A New Home for Magic

Brisbane’s first dedicated magic theatre, the Theatre of Magic, has recently secured a permanent location at The Map Room within The Treasury Hotel. This establishment has quickly gained a significant following and has become immensely popular among magic enthusiasts. At this extraordinary location that the renowned magician Christopher Wayne created, delve into a world of wonder and enchantment.

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The Theatre of Magic is a captivating spectacle that pays homage to the renowned Magic Castle in Los Angeles. This extraordinary production features the incredible skills of three exceptionally talented Australian magicians: Christopher Wayne, Josh Norbido, and Kerry Domann.

With their mesmerising abilities and mind-boggling tricks, the trio manages to hold audiences spellbound, executing their illusions with astonishing precision and leaving spectators in awe. What’s even more impressive is that they perform their acts mere inches away from the viewers’ faces, creating an intimate and immersive experience.

Brisbane’s entertainment scene has found a new gem with this one-of-a-kind magic experience. It further cements the city’s status as a thriving hub for talented artists and performers. The Theatre of Magic offers an enchanting experience with its intimate setting, exceptional talent, and the promise of an unforgettable night out for all attendees.

Published Date 19-June-2024

The world of magic is about to get even more spellbinding as Bridgeman Downs’ magician extraordinaire, Josh Norbido, known for his awe-inspiring card mastery and mesmerising performances, headlines the cast of Brisbane’s Theatre of Magic in their new home in the city.

A Rising Star Joins the Ensemble

Mr Norbido, affectionately referred to as “Hot Magic Josh” by Nicole Scherzinger during his remarkable run as a semi-finalist on “Australia’s Got Talent,” is set to bring his unparalleled talents to Theatre of Magic. His technical finesse with a deck of cards has left audiences and industry veterans alike in awe, earning him accolades and opportunities beyond the stage.

In this exciting venture, Mr Norbido joins the ranks of master magician Christopher Wayne and the exceptional entertainer Kerry “Nigel” Domann. This trio of magical talent is poised to take Brisbane by storm, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience that will captivate hearts and minds.

The Magic Unveiled

The Theatre of Magic, the brainchild of Mr Wayne, has secured a stunning permanent home in The Map Room at The Treasury Hotel. This historic venue will serve as the backdrop for their world-class performances, delivering an elegant evening of magic that is both intimate and mesmerizing.

“What started as a 12-week experiment turned into four months of sold-out shows, every single weekend! And now we have a stunning permanent home in The Map Room at The Treasury Hotel; it’s perfect given its heritage and history,” Mr Wayne said.

“Brisbane has nothing like this. It has never had anything like this. We have found a way to bring magic to audiences in an intimate setting, in one of the most beautiful and aged buildings in the entire city.”

Top 10 with Christopher Wayne

Comedy Magician and producer Christopher Wayne is the co-creator and co-star of the biggest Australian magic show in history, The Naked Magicians, as well as creator of the family magic spectacular Showmen. He’s performed on Broadway, in Vegas and London’s West End, and, well, over 300 cities around the world! His passion is creating original, commercial entertainment for families that contains no deep messages or themes, just pure entertainment at a time when we all need it. Brisbane, this one’s for you!

Name and suburb: Christopher Wayne, Newstead
What’s your first memory of Magic? My first memory is so stereotypical, but it was my Grandfather showing me the cheesiest, most “Grandad” Magic tricks ever. It changed my life.
What’s your go-to Magic moment/trick/illusion? Any moment that makes people forget about the “now”.
Who’s your Magic inspiration? David Copperfield is my biggest inspiration. He was the person that showed the world that magic was more than just “tricks”, and that you can illicit emotions in people through the artform.
Why do think people love Magic? We live in a world where the answers to literally everything are in our hands, in our phones. Magic is one of the few things that comes without logic or explanation. It’s fantasy, but it’s fantasy happening right in front of your own eyes.
Fave animal, food, drink? Monkeys, Thai food. Smokey Whiskey. (Not at the same time, ever.)
Most embarrassing moment? Dislocating my knee on stage in The Naked Magicians. Nightmare fuel.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous magician? I would be a theatre producer. It’s close to what I do now, but I am driven by the experience of strangers in a room enjoying live theatre.
In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic: Cocktails. Magic. Memories.
What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic in Brisbane: Brisbane hasn’t got anything like this. It has never had anything like this. We have found a way to bring magic to you in an intimate setting, in one of the most beautiful and aged buildings in the entire city!

Top 10 With Josh Norbido

There’s the Nicole Scherzinger comment, and Chef Manu Feildel agreed, saying, ‘what you do is impossible and it’s the best magic I have ever seen!’ There’s more…. his technical skill with a deck of cards landed him as a consultant for Australian Academy Award winner Kate Blanchett in lead up to her role in Oceans 8, and as the lead Card Shuffling consultant on Russel Crowe’s 2022 movie “Poker Face.”

Name and suburb: Joshua Norbido, Bridgeman Downs
What’s your first memory of Magic? My first ever memory of Magic was witnessing a thumb being pulled off at the age of six. It was mind blowing.
What’s your go-to Magic Moment? It’s always the Magic that happens in the spectator’s very own hands.
Who’s your Magic inspiration? David Blaine, Asi Wind, Steve Cohen and David Stone from France.
Why do think people love Magic? I think the older we get, the less Magical the world becomes. Magic is one of the few things left that can still give people the true feeling of wonder.
Fave animal, food, drink? Dogs 4 life. Shepherd’s Pie, Southern Comfort & Coke.
Most embarrassing moment? Being on stage and having a raw egg break in my jacket pocket with 40 minutes of the show still to go.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous magician? I have a love for fitness so I feel like I would have become a very quirky personal trainer haha.
In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic: Surprise, Happiness, Laughter.
What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic: This format of Magic does not exist anywhere else in Queensland, so being able to bring this to the city I have grown up in is a dream come true!

Top 10 with Kerry “Nigel” Domann

He’s an exceptional entertainer who has captivated audiences around the world with his unique blend of magic, comedy, charm and memory. His natural talent for making people laugh and his love for magic make him perfect for the Theatre of Magic. Nigel’s ability to engage and connect with his audience is unparalleled, but what sets him apart is his ability to remember everyone’s name in the room, a feat that is not only incredibly difficult to achieve, but mind blowing and unforgettable to witness.

Name, and suburb you live: Nigel, Birkdale
What’s your first memory of Magic? Watching Paul Daniel (British magician) on TV.
What’s your go-to Magic moment? Names, I go around and memorise everyone’s name in the audience.
Who’s your Magic inspiration? Tommy Copper and Harry Andersen.
Why do think people love Magic? It’s simple – for the wonder.
Fave animal, food, drink? Staffy dog named Leroy. Chocolate. Gin & Tonic.
Most embarrassing moment? There’s so many. On my first night ever doing standup at a crazy comedy magic restaurant many years ago nobody applauded or laughed for a solid 10 minutes. I walked off the stage totally gutted only to do it all over again in the next night, and the next, and the next….
What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous Magician? Qualitative Analyst, I’m a Math and I actually have three degrees!
In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic: An unforgettable experience.
What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic in Brisbane? There’s a seamless combination of stunning magic, mind-bending tricks, and sheer amazement that immerses the audience into a world of wonder and excitement. We’ve built anticipation throughout the whole show, we want audiences on the audience on the edges of their seats.

The Theatre of Magic promises Brisbane an evening filled with elegance, wonder, and laughter. Audiences can anticipate a cocktail of surprise, happiness, and laughter, all seamlessly woven into a night they won’t soon forget. With its blend of history, heritage, and the mystique of magic, this new venture offers patrons a truly magical night out.

For those eager to experience this enchanting journey, tickets and more information are available on the official website: Brisbane’s Theatre of Magic.

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Published 2-Feb-2024

Tag: Theatre of Magic

Bridgeman Downs Magician Josh Norbido Brings Wonder to Hometown