Now You See Him… The Disappearing Man Arrives at The Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch.

28th July 202628th July 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 1 Comment Hornchurch, Play, Queen's Theatre, The Disappearing Man min read

A washed-up magician determined to reclaim his former glory will take centre stage at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch this autumn in a brand-new production featuring live on-stage magic, family drama and a powerful story about love, legacy and second chances.

The Disappearing Man, written by award-winning Essex playwright Kenny Emson and directed by Alex Thorpe, will premiere at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch from 15 to 31 October before embarking on a national tour.

Set against the backdrop of Clacton-on-Sea, the production follows Bazza Cadabra, a once-famous magician who returns to the seaside town hoping to stage one final comeback more than 20 years after his heyday. While determined to prove he still has what it takes, Bazza’s greatest challenge is rebuilding his relationship with his estranged son.

As Bazza navigates rivalry with a flashy young magician, a demanding new manager and the family he left behind, audiences can expect an emotional story filled with humour, hope and spectacular live magic.

The production stars Matt Bardock, known for Casualty, New Blood and A Touch of Frost, in the lead role of Bazza Cadabra. Joining him is Debra Baker, whose television credits include Unforgotten and Doctor Who, playing Bazza’s sharp-witted former wife, Wendy.

The production is a collaboration between Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and HighTide, with performances in Hornchurch followed by week-long runs at Blackpool Grand Theatre, Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and Peterborough’s Key Theatre during November.

Director Alex Thorpe said:

“At the heart of Kenny Emson’s epic story is a deeply human tale of love, ambition and sacrifice. I’m delighted to welcome Debra Baker back to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and to introduce Matt Bardock to our audiences. Together, we’ll uncover the people, passions and conflicts at the centre of this remarkable Essex story.”

Matt Bardock admitted that taking on the role presents a unique challenge.

“I’ve got a fair few tricks to perform throughout the production. We have a bullet catch to do, some card tricks, 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 think of a reason not to do it!”

Debra Baker said she was thrilled to return to the theatre where she has enjoyed a long association over the years.

“I’ve long admired Kenny Emson’s writing. He writes with such honesty, humour and heart, and I especially appreciate seeing older working-class people represented so truthfully on stage. Returning to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is another real joy. I’ve taught youth groups there as well as performed in several productions, and it’s always felt like such a welcoming creative home.”

HighTide Artistic Director Titilola Dawudu added:

“Kenny’s skill at creating messy, complicated characters is stand-out and helping shape this production as we head towards rehearsals is an exciting and invigorating challenge. This is our first new production under my tenure as HighTide’s Artistic Director and I’m really excited to be working with Matt and Debra leading the cast.”

Kenny Emson is one of Essex’s most celebrated writers for stage and screen. His work includes the BAFTA-nominated BBC production The Last Hours of Laura K, episodes of EastEnders and Doctors, and acclaimed stage productions including Rust and Terrorism.

Alex Thorpe, Creative Director of Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, has previously directed productions including Handbagged and Bedroom Farce and has also worked extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Performance Details

The Disappearing Man

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch

15–31 October 2026

Performance Times

Monday to Saturday – 7.30pm

Saturday Matinees – 2.30pm

Accessible Performances

• BSL Interpreted – 22 October, 7.30pm

• Audio Described – 24 October, 2.30pm (Touch Tour at 1pm)

• Captioned – 28 October, 7.30pm

Running Time

Approximately 140 minutes, including an interval.

Suitable for ages 12 and over.

Following its Hornchurch premiere, the production will tour to Blackpool Grand Theatre (3–7 November), Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford (10–14 November) and Key Theatre, Peterborough (17–21 November).

Tickets for the Hornchurch performances are priced from £14.70 to £30.70, with Under-26 tickets available for £10.

With live illusions, an outstanding cast and a moving story about family, redemption and hope, The Disappearing Man promises to be one of Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch’s most exciting productions of the year.

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