A fun, intimate night out in Bristol with the House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors
If you’re hunting for something unique and entertaining during your visit to Bristol, the House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors could be just what you need. This show combines hilarious comedy with mind-boggling magic, all set inside a small, cozy theatre in Bristol’s vibrant Theatre District. It’s a lively experience that promises an hour and 45 minutes of laughs, illusions, and good old-fashioned fun.
What excites us about this experience is the small venue atmosphere—you’re close enough to feel part of the magic—and the consistent glowing reviews that highlight the quality of the performers and the genuine entertainment value. Plus, the venue’s location makes it easy to combine with other nightlife pursuits, especially since you can enjoy food and drinks before the show. That said, a potential consideration is that seats are assigned randomly, and arriving late could mean missing out on the best seats or being seated during the interval.
This show really hits the spot for anyone looking for an engaging, adult-only night of entertainment that’s more than just a typical night out. Whether you’re a magic enthusiast, a comedy lover, or just seeking a different way to spend an evening in Bristol, this performance offers something special. It’s especially well-suited for groups of friends, couples, or even those celebrating a special occasion, thanks to its lively and interactive vibe.
- Key Points
- Diving into the Experience
- The Venue and Atmosphere
- The Pre-Show Experience
- The Show Itself: Magic and Comedy
- Food, Drinks, and Additional Costs
- The Audience Experience
- Cons and Considerations
- Who Is This Show For?
- The Sum Up
- The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors Friday 8pm
- FAQ
- More Shows & Entertainment in Bristol
- More Tour Reviews in Bristol
Key Points

- Intimate setting: The small theatre with just 40 seats makes for personal, up-close magic.
- Highly rated: With a 5.0/5 rating from 202 reviews and 99% recommending it, this show consistently impresses.
- Combo of comedy and magic: Expect a lively mix of hilarious jokes and astonishing illusions.
- Book in advance: Tickets are often booked 19 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.
- Food and drinks: A variety of food, beers, wines, and cocktails are available, though at your own expense.
- Adults only: Entry is restricted to those 18+, so it’s a night for grown-ups looking for fun.
Diving into the Experience

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The Venue and Atmosphere
From the moment you step into Smoke & Mirrors, you’re greeted by the charm of a 1920s-style theatre, immediately setting the tone for a night of vintage glamour mixed with modern entertainment. The venue seats only about 40 people, which creates a sense of intimacy and ensures you’re close enough to see every detail of the magic tricks. It also means the atmosphere is lively, with a palpable buzz of anticipation.
Guests often praise the venue’s welcoming staff and the in-house close-up magician who greets visitors at the door. This personal touch helps ease any nerves and gets you in the right mood for a night of surprises. As one reviewer put it, “Our friendly staff looked after drinks and food requirements, making us feel right at home.”
The Pre-Show Experience
The show kicks off at 8:00 pm, with doors opening at 7:45 pm. Before the main act begins, you can settle into your seat, often with a drink or a snack from the venue’s menu. The seating arrangement is assigned by the box office, so there’s no choosing your seat in advance. Some reviews mention that arriving late might mean being seated during the interval or sharing tables with strangers, so arriving promptly helps you get the full experience.
The Show Itself: Magic and Comedy
The heart of the evening is the performance by two resident magicians, who blend comedy and magic seamlessly. The reviews often mention how funny and clever the performers are, with some noting audience participation that’s light-hearted and fun rather than intimidating. As one guest said, “Audience participation was done well, and everyone had a great time.”
Expect illusions that will leave you scratching your head and jokes that keep the mood light and engaging. The performers’ skill is often highlighted—many reviewers call the magic “amazing,” with tricks so close-up that they remind some of Derren Brown’s style. The show’s length, at approximately 90 minutes, is just right—long enough to be satisfying but not so lengthy that attention wanes.
Food, Drinks, and Additional Costs
While ticket prices are quite reasonable at around $33, keep in mind that food and drinks are on your tab. The venue offers a range of bites, beers, wines, and cocktails, which many reviewers say are fairly priced for a night out. If you’re a fan of trying different drinks while watching, you’ll find plenty of options, but don’t expect them to be included in the ticket.
The Audience Experience
What makes this show stand out is the sense of participation and proximity. Many reviews describe the venue as feeling more personal because of its size. People love how close they are to the magic, making the illusions all the more astonishing. The reviews repeatedly mention how fun and engaging the night is—whether it’s a date night, a fun outing with friends, or a special celebration.
Cons and Considerations
No experience is perfect, and some reviews mention minor drawbacks. For example, seating can be a bit tight, and if you’re not early, you might be seated during the show or with strangers. Also, the ticket policy states that once booked, cancellations are not allowed, so make sure your plans are firm.
Another point to consider is that disruptive behavior, like heckling or talking during the show, won’t be tolerated. The venue has strict rules to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone, which is understandable in such a small setting.
Who Is This Show For?
If you appreciate a night of laughter and wonder, this is an ideal pick. It’s best suited for adults 18+ who enjoy comedy, magic, or both. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or even a fun date night. If you’re someone who loves seeing close-up magic and enjoys interactive performances, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
The Sum Up

The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors offers a lively, engaging night in Bristol that’s perfect for those seeking something a little different. The combination of talented magicians, comedy, and a cozy, intimate setting makes for a memorable experience—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun evening out. The venue’s prime location in Bristol’s Theatre District adds extra convenience, and the consistently high reviews suggest this show hits the mark for most visitors.
While you should be prepared for a late-night show with no refunds and the importance of arriving on time, the overall value for money is clear. You’re getting nearly two hours of top-notch entertainment with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of laughs. If you’re a fan of magic, comedy, or both, this show will likely leave you with some great stories—and maybe a little disbelief, too.
For anyone who’s after a night that’s lively, interactive, and a bit different from the usual night out, this is a solid choice. Just remember to arrive early, enjoy your drinks, and get ready to be wowed by some talented magicians in a setting that feels more like a private performance than a typical show.
The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors Friday 8pm
“Fantastic location, a small theatre and pub. Pizzas were really good – the thin authentic version! Show was great, really funny and the magic was…”
FAQ

Is this show suitable for children?
This performance is strictly for audiences aged 18 and over, so it’s best suited for adults. The venue may use graphic language, and the show’s content is designed for mature viewers.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance—most guests book around 19 days before—to guarantee your seats, as this is a popular show and seats are assigned by the box office.
What if I arrive late?
If you’re late, you might be seated during the interval, and your seat allocation will be at the venue’s discretion. Arriving on time ensures you get the full experience and the best seats.
Are food and drinks included in the ticket price?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase separately. The ticket price covers entry, but you’ll pay for your bites and beverages during the evening.
How long is the show?
The show lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, giving you plenty of entertainment without it feeling overly long.
Is there a dress code?
There’s no formal dress code, but smart casual is generally appropriate for an evening out in Bristol’s Theatre District.
What about accessibility?
The venue is near public transportation and offers a cozy, intimate setting, but for specific accessibility concerns, it’s best to contact the venue directly.
If you’re after a night that combines good laughs, jaw-dropping magic, and a lively atmosphere, the House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors is well worth considering. Just be sure to plan ahead, arrive early, and enjoy the magic unfold right before your eyes.


