Matt Bardock and Debra Baker cast in The Disappearing Man

Featuring live onstage magic, The Disappearing Man is new drama about legacy and second chances from local Essex playwright Kenny Emson. Returning to the once-glittering Clacton-on-Sea, Bazza Cadabra is ready for a final comeback, determined to reclaim the spotlight and prove he’s still got what it takes 20 years after his prime. But at the heart of his ambition is something far more fragile: his re-kindled relationship with his son. As Bazza faces a flashy young magician, a no-nonsense new manager and the family he left behind, their reunion sparks hope, rivalry, and the possibility of something extraordinary.

Casting will feature Matt Bardock (New Blood, BBC, Casualty, BBC, A Touch of Frost, ITV) as magician Bazza Cadabra alongside Debra Baker (Unforgotten, ITV, Doctor Who, BBC) as Barry's sharp-witted ex-wife Wendy, the mother of his son. Produced in collaboration with HighTide, The Disappearing Man will premiere at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch before weeklong runs at Blackpool Grand Theatre, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guilford and Key Theatre Peterborough in November.

Director Alex Thope 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 QTH 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.”

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

Actor Debra Baker said, “I've long admired Kenny Emson's writing. Although we've never worked together before, I've seen his plays and have always loved how relatable they are. 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. Over the years 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 said, "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."

15 - 31 October at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch www.queens-theatre.co.uk Tour 3 - 21 November