Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and HighTide have announced the premiere of The Disappearing Man, a new drama by award-winning Essex playwright Kenny Emson that combines family drama with live onstage magic.
Directed by Alex Thorpe, the production opens at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch from 15 to 31 October 2026 before embarking on a UK tour to Blackpool, Guildford and Peterborough.
The play follows washed-up magician Bazza Cadabra as he returns to Clacton-on-Sea, determined to stage one final comeback two decades after his heyday.
As Bazza attempts to reclaim the spotlight, he must also navigate a fragile reunion with his son, while facing competition from a younger magician, a tough new manager and the family he left behind.
Matt Bardock will star as Bazza Cadabra, with Debra Baker playing his sharp-witted ex-wife Wendy.
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 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.”
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!”
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.”
Emson is an award-winning writer for stage and screen whose credits include Rust, Terrorism, Doctors, EastEnders and the BAFTA-nominated digital murder mystery The Last Hours of Laura K.
The production features set and costume design by Sarah Beaton, illusion design by John Bulleid and Gareth Kalyan, lighting design by Matt Haskins and music by Eamonn O’Dwyer.
The Disappearing Man runs for 140 minutes including an interval and is recommended for audiences aged 12 and above.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
