Theatre
Review
Review: Magic Mike Live at the Hippodrome Casino
The live show in the Hippodrome Casino is both sexy and surprisingly wholesome – particularly for those with the VIP Luxe package
The first five to 10 minutes of Magic Mike Live are, admittedly, jarring. There are cheesy costumes, an enthusiastic and off-putting compere (played to stomach-turning excellence by James Percy), and too much audience action to keep track of. Then the show takes a turn for the empowering – audience plant Jo Calderwood takes over as our host, and the power is suddenly in our hands. Calderwood transforms the mismatched cast onstage into genuine female fantasies – A hot CEO who doesn’t exploit his workers! A hot guy with a baby! – and the real show begins. It’s an entertaining and kind of wholesome misdirect, a tone that Magic Mike Live will maintain throughout, even in its sexiest moments.
Are there still innuendos throughout? Yes, of course. Calderwood’s compere is not a cool girl – she’s the everywoman and manages to be utterly endearing even in-between frequent comments about (excuse us) dampness. But whilst the giggles are plenty, the guys of Magic Mike Live are undoubtedly impressive.
Along with, yes, some serious abs, there’s also some serious talent on display here. As impressive as their dancing is, an ability shared by all the cast to put each audience member at their ease, to give them agency, and to build connections even during very brief interactions. Those pulled from their seats are never at the wrong end of a joke. The mood, whilst playful, is also celebratory, sensual, and decidedly sexy.
Those treating themselves to the VIP Luxe package can expect to be up close to the action and to experience everything Magic Mike Live has to offer, from dancers gyrating on your tables to impressively sized cocktails, and even a chance to meet the cast afterwards as you enjoy some dinner. Those apprehensive of audience participation can rest assured – taking their tops off on that stage are some genuinely lovely people. However you best want to enjoy the spectacle, the choice is left in your hands. Ironically, Magic Mike Live is as respectful as it gets.
Magic Mike Live is now playing at the Theatre at the Hippodrome Casino – find tickets here
