Is magic the new trend in China? Lionsgate are launching the ‘Now You See Me Live’ global touring show in China, and the IP will feature at their indoor theme park.
The ‘Now You See Me Live’ global touring show is set to launch in China. Lionsgate is adding the live performance spectacular to its IP expansion for the magic brand as it ramps up plans for the global blockbuster film franchise.
The IP will also be a key feature of the theme park at under-construction Lionsgate Entertainment World. Lionsgate’s first indoor theme park will stretch over a 2.2 hectare site and is being built in Hengqin, China, as part of a larger complex. It is set to open in 2019.
So is magic the latest hook for attractions in China? Blooloop recently reported that The Magic Castle has licensed its IP to Novaex for a high tech magic resort in China. It also plans to create a Magic School for children and teens.
Live stage show
The new live stage spectacular promises brand new illusions from some of the world’s greatest magicians. It will also feature new music. Now You See Me Live is a collaboration between Lionsgate and The Works Entertainment, producers and creative team behind best-selling magic show The Illusionists.
“We are thrilled to partner with The Works Entertainment for this live, interactive magic spectacular, especially given their strong pedigree and their understanding and appreciation of the Now You See Me brand,” said Jenefer Brown, Lionsgate Senior Vice President of Global Live and Location Based Entertainment.
“We know Now You See Me Live will give fans worldwide a new way to engage with a franchise they know and love, and we look forward to launching it in China, a region that has been overwhelmingly supportive of the films.”
Tour to start in November in China
The tour will start this November in China, one of the highest grossing international markets for the franchise.
As in the films, The Horsemen will occupy centre-stage. These comprise four globally famous illusionists:
- James More is “The Showman”. He went viral following Britain’s Got Talent
- Florian Sainvet is “The Manipulator”. Two-time French Magic Champion and finalist of France’s Got Talent.
- Sabine van Diemen is “The Escape Artist”. Famous from Holland’s Got Talent and West End Productions’ The Illusionists.
- Enzo Weyne is “The Mentalist. From France’s Got Talent and the best-winning magic show by French Federation of Prestidigitator Artists.
In addition, a fifth cast member will be unique to each market. The ‘fifth horseman’ will also host the show in the local language of the touring region.
“The Works Entertainment is delighted to partner with global content leader Lionsgate on this innovative and incredible new magic production,” said Simon Painter, executive producer for The Works Entertainment. “After the success of ‘The Illusionists’ franchise worldwide, Now You See Me Live will push stage magic and illusion into the next generation. We cannot wait for audiences to enjoy this groundbreaking theatrical experience.”
Now You See Me and Now You See Me 2 from Lionsgate’s Summit Entertainment grossed more than $680 million at the worldwide box office. They grossed over $100 million in China where their popularity continues to expand. The franchise already spans two mobile games.
