Friday night was a memorable occasion for the Climent family - owners of not only Benidorm´s top entertainment venue, but also Europe´s. Proud parents Christine and Vicente watched as son David, illusionist at Benidorm Palace made history by becoming one of the youngest ever recipients of the prestigious Merlin Award, akin to the Oscars in the film industry. Tony Hassini – Chairman and CEO of The International Magicians Society flew over from New York especially for the event, which was presented to David after the premier of the new show “Q”.
The auditorium was packed for the much-anticipated new production and as each year, it just seems to get better. Artistic Director David Moore has once again pushed the boundaries and this year in particular, will delight the Brits with many references to all things British.
The opening number – Queen´s “We will Rock You” bursts out and the stage fills with dancers whilst some even fly in overhead! It´s all very energetic and vibrant and will have you tapping away to the chorus. Punk Rock girls then join in with their colourful and individual costumes for a fantastic opener.
Each dance segment is divided up with an act – and David´s illusions leave the crowd enthralled and captivated. Fire, guillotines and the real showstopper, a helicopter magically appear on stage – leaving the audience open mouthed and looking at each other for an explanation.
Rule Britannia and Flamenco seemingly flow from one to another and the costumes, as expected are magnificent, with plenty of pink ostrich feathers filling the stage. The incredible gold strong men are back with their slow motion skillful balancing act – one which always seems to captivate and get the biggest applause.
Queen singer Freddy Mercury is cleverly projected on a back screen and sings “Barcelona” in unison with a female vocalist live on stage and the Queen theme runs into royalty, with a crown and James Bond number, complete with lots of tuxedoed Bonds carrying guns before flowing into an oriental theme.
The Merlin presentation took place at the end of the show and the selection process to get there is very challenging. Contenders have to be nominated by a famous peer or director – David´s name was put forward by Internationally recognized director and choreographer Alberto Sperduto, who was in the audience.
Over 500 names were initially submitted, then shortlisted to 75 before David was chosen as the ultimate winner… an incredible accomplishment. Tony compared David to world-renowned illusionist David Copperfield and said that he definitely has the capability, charisma and skill to become the next Spanish Copperfield, a phenomenal endorsement of his talent. Of the nine illusions which David performs in this show, his favourite is excalibur - which involves a perspex box and lots of swords!
The new show "Q" is on every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. You can make it a complete experience and have the meal beforehand - doors open at 8:30pm or just go for the show and drinks (get there for 10:00pm) if you are here on holiday perhaps and on an all inclusive package.
One thing is for sure, it should most definately be on your to do list when in Benidorm if you want a fantastic first class night out and get to watch the winner of the 2015 Merlin Award in person. Have a sneak preview of the forthcoming show here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWmyVHiaU4k
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