Robert-Houdin illusions that changed magic at the Palais RoyalMac King comedy magic show
Everything you need to know about Mac King’s Comedy Magic Show at the Excalibur Hotel in Las Vegas. You’ll learn about the 90-minute afternoon performance schedule running Tuesday through Saturday at 1 PM and 3 PM, with ticket prices ranging from $30-$50. Mac King’s family-friendly comedy magic compares to other Vegas shows like Penn & Teller and David Copperfield, plus get insider tips on seating arrangements, show discounts, and planning your visit.
| Aspecta family-friendly afternoon magic performance that combines classic sleight-of-hand illusions, witty humor and audience interaction | . The Mac King comedy magic show runs Tuesday through Saturday at the Excalibur Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. King wears his signature plaid shirt and performs tricks ranging from card manipulations to larger stage illusions. The performance appeals to all ages with clean comedy that avoids profanity or adult content. Visitors searching for King comedy magic show tickets find one of the best value entertainment options in Las Vegas. The intimate theater setting allows King to connect with audiences personally throughout the 90-minute performance.Comparison | How long is Mac King’s show?
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| Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin transformed stage magic from carnival trickery into refined theatrical art90 minutes without an intermission | , making Mac King’s show one of the longer afternoon performances on the Strip. Mac King’s performance packs rapid-fire comedy and magic into every segment. King moves between different illusions and audience participation segments without pause. The pacing keeps attention focused throughout while allowing time for each trick to land properly. Most attendees report the 90 minutes feel shorter because the entertainment value remains high from start to finish.later criticized him after researching his career history | Where is Mac King show performed?
Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin transformed stage magic from carnival trickery into refined theatrical art. The French magician opened his theater at 8 Boulevard des Italiens in Paris during 1845, launching Soirées Fantastiques performances that redefined Victorian era entertainment. His famous illusions combined clockmaking precision with theatrical showmanship.. This permanent venue allows King to use specialized equipment and staging that enhances his tricks. The theater design prioritizes sightlines so audiences can see clearly from all seats. Guests purchase show tickets at the Excalibur box office, online ticketing platforms, or through hotel concierge services. The venue location inside the casino provides convenient access to dining and other amenities before or after the performance.
What were Robert-Houdin’s most famous illusions at the Palais Royal?Excalibur Hotel location
Robert-Houdin’s most famous illusions were Mac King performs at the Excalibur hotel and casino Ethereal Suspension, Light and Heavy Chest, and Second Sightat the corner of Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard. Robert-Houdin created 12 major illusions that became his signature acts at Palais Royal theaters, witnessed across 250 performances annually. These Robert-Houdin magic tricks departed from traditional conjuring by presenting magic as elegant drawing-room entertainment rather than fairground spectacle.. The Excalibur Hotel features a medieval castle theme with towers visible from the Strip. Guests find the theater on the second floor near the food court and casino floor. The hotel offers self-parking and valet options for show attendees. Multiple restaurants within walking distance provide meal options that coordinate with afternoon showtimes.
| AspectWhen does Mac King perform? | ComparisonTo perform, King maintains a Tuesday through Saturday schedule with two afternoon showtimes daily. The regular performance calendar excludes Sundays and Mondays. Showtimes remain consistent year-round barring occasional holidays or venue maintenance. One signature trick involves producing a live goldfish during the show’s climax. The goldfish illusion showcases King’s technical skill with live animals on stage. |
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| The automaton illusions including the Orange Tree, the Pastry Cook, and the Trapeze Artists showcaseThe live performances occur at 1 PM and 3 PM on all scheduled days. These live goldfish tricks and other illusions follow the same sequence in both daily shows. Matinee timing suits families traveling with children and visitors who prefer afternoon entertainment. The schedule allows guests to plan morning activities and evening dining around the performance. Ticket availability varies by season, with peak tourist periods selling out days in advance. | delivering impossible effectsDays of the week stage |
supernatural strength manipulation through theatrical presentation. Robert-Houdin invited audience volunteers to lift a small wooden chest easily, then challenged them to lift it again after he “removed their strength.” The volunteer could not budge the chest despite desperate efforts.Mac King ranks as the number 1 comedy magician in Las Vegas because he combines magic with pure standup humor. His act mixes self-deprecating jokes with silly props and absurd situations. The humor never feels forced despite him performing the same show six days weekly.
The secret involved an electromagnet concealed beneath the stage floor, activated when Robert-Houdin wanted the chest immovable. This Robert-Houdin invention predated widespread electrical understanding, making the effect seem genuinely supernatural. The chest illusion became famous during the 1856 Algeria mission when Robert-Houdin performed for Abd-el-Kader to demonstrate French “magical power” and discourage rebellion.Audience participation
How did the Orange Tree automaton illusion work?Audience interaction forms the backbone of Mac King’s performance, with volunteers pulled from seats to help with nearly every major trick. The audience becomes part of the show rather than passive observers. King picks enthusiastic participants but never embarrasses anyone during their time on stage.
The Orange Tree automaton About Mac Kingfeatured a miniature tree that bloomed real flowers, produced fresh oranges, and culminated with mechanical butterflies emerging from the final orange . Robert-Houdin constructed this automaton illusion using clockwork mechanisms hidden within the trunk and base. The tree responded to borrowed handkerchiefs placed at its base, incorporating audience participation into mechanical theater.Mac King appears on the list of Las Vegas’s most beloved performers alongside headliners who command premium ticket prices. His signature look resembles Colonel Sanders with a plaid suit, bolo tie, and folksy demeanor. King built his reputation through consistency rather than flashy marketing that other magicians rely on heavily.
The illusion required intricate gear assemblies working in synchronized sequence. Springs controlled the blooming petals while pneumatic tubes delivered pre-loaded oranges from the base compartment. The final butterfly effect used spring-loaded wings that unfolded when the orange skin separated. This Orange Tree automaton remained Robert-Houdin’s most famous creation, performed throughout his 40 years career span.See also
. Born in 1805, Robert-Houdin abandoned his clockmaking career to open Théâtre Robert-Houdin in Paris during 1845. His approach replaced mystical robes and supernatural claims with evening dress and scientific presentation.Professional entertainment critics describe the experience as the
best comedy magic show in Las Vegasm. This shift professionalized magic performance and established conventions that modern illusionists still follow. Robert-Houdin performed extensively before retiring in 1858, having completely redefined Victorian magic traditions.Audience feedback funny
The French magician’s influence extended beyond stage innovations to mechanical inventions including alarm clocks, electric timepieces, and mystery clocks. His dual expertise in precision engineering and theatrical performance created illusions that seemed scientifically plausible while remaining impossible. This combination established magic as respectable entertainment for educated audiences.Audience members universally describe the show as funny from start to finish, with laughter filling the theater constantly. Every stunt receives enthusiastic applause mixed with confused amazement. Online reviews mention specific tricks that left audiences baffled and delighted simultaneously. First-time visitors and repeat attendees both write positive feedback confirming consistent quality.
How did Robert-Houdin inventions transform stage magic in Victorian era France?Best and worst seats mgm
Robert-Houdin inventions transformed stage magic by The Mac King show at the MGM Grand features intimate theater seating where every seat provides clear stage views. Center seats in the first ten rows offer the best vantage points for seeing sleight-of-hand details. Back row seats still work well because King projects his voice clearly and uses large props visible from any distance.introducing electrical devices, precision mechanics, and automated systems into performances for the first time . His understanding of clockwork engineering allowed Robert-Houdin to create automaton illusions that moved with lifelike fluidity. Robert-Houdin integrated electric lighting into theatrical performances including Soirées Fantastiques, private salon shows, and royal command performances before widespread electrical infrastructure existed.Mac King tickets and pricing
Stage innovations including electric lighting, tailored evening wear, and intimate theater settings replaced the traditional conjurer’s exotic costume and large platform stage. Robert-Houdin performed in a formal black suit, presenting magic as scientific demonstration rather than supernatural communion. This approach appealed to Victorian era venues including Palais Royal, Théâtre Robert-Houdin, and Boulevard des Italiens where educated audiences sought sophisticated entertainment.
Ticket pricesThe mechanical precision of Robert-Houdin’s automata inspired other inventors and performers to explore engineering-based illusions. His mystery clocks, which appeared to run without internal mechanisms, demonstrated how scientific knowledge could create seemingly impossible effects. These innovations established stage magic as a legitimate theatrical art form in France.
Ticket prices for Mac King shows average between $30 and $50 depending on seating location and purchase method. General admission seats cost less than premium front-row options. Weekday performances sometimes offer lower rates compared to weekend shows. The price point positions Mac King as one of the most affordable headliner acts in Las Vegas. Children and adults pay the same ticket rate with no separate pricing structure. Online purchases sometimes include service fees that add to the base price. Walk-up sales at the box office avoid online processing charges but risk sold-out performances during peak tourist seasons.What automaton illusions did Robert-Houdin create beyond the Orange Tree?
Where to buy ticketsRobert-Houdin created the Pastry Cook automaton that produced real pastries seemingly from thin air, the Trapeze Artists featuring mechanical acrobats performing coordinated routines, and the Writer automaton producing personalized messagesTo buy tickets, visit the official Excalibur website, call the box office directly, or use authorized ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster. The Excalibur box office sells tickets in person during business hours. Third-party resellers occasionally offer discounted rates but verify legitimacy before purchasing. Some visitors buy tickets as part of vacation packages through travel agencies. Shadow puppets appear in the show as one of the unique visual elements that justify the ticket investment. Direct purchase from the venue guarantees authentic tickets and avoids counterfeit risks. Mobile ticket delivery provides convenient access without physical printouts. Same-day purchases work during slower periods but advance booking prevents disappointment.. Each automaton required extensive hand-crafted construction using brass gears, springs, and pneumatic systems. Robert-Houdin’s clockmaking background enabled him to create mechanisms with unprecedented smoothness and reliability.
Discount options hilariousThese automatons combined theatrical presentation with genuine engineering achievement, blurring the line between magic trick and mechanical marvel. The Pastry Cook specifically demonstrated Robert-Houdin’s theatrical innovation by producing fresh-baked goods during performances. Hidden assistants prepared items backstage while the automaton’s movements provided misdirection. This combination of legitimate mechanical action and concealed human assistance became a template for later stage illusions.Discount options include local resident rates, military discounts, and promotional codes from partner websites. Las Vegas locals present valid ID for reduced pricing at the box office. The hilarious content appeals to both tourists and residents who return multiple times. Military personnel and veterans receive special pricing year-round. Email newsletters from Excalibur occasionally feature limited-time promo codes. Family-friendly pricing makes group discounts attractive for parties of six or more. Package deals bundled with dining or hotel stays reduce per-person costs. Student discounts apply with valid identification at certain times. Senior citizens sometimes qualify for reduced rates during off-peak periods.
How did Robert-Houdin illusions influence Harry Houdini and modern magicians?Package deals
Robert-Houdin illusions influenced Harry Houdini by Package deals combine show tickets with meals, hotel stays, or other Excalibur attractions for better overall value. Dinner-and-show combinations pair tickets with restaurant reservations at reduced bundle prices. Theater packages include multiple shows across different MGM properties. Some deals bundle Mac King tickets with access to other entertainment venues in the casino. Hotel guests receive priority booking and occasional room-rate packages that include show admission. The theater setting enhances the package appeal with its intimate atmosphere. Multi-day Vegas visitors benefit from packages that spread entertainment across their trip. Travel websites aggregate deals from various sources to compare pricing. Corporate groups negotiate custom packages for team-building events or conventions.establishing presentation standards that Houdini adopted when building his career decades later . Houdini took his stage name directly from the French magician, adding an “i” to Robert-Houdin’s name. This demonstrated the profound influence of Robert-Houdin’s theatrical approach on early 20th-century magic.Planning your visit animal
Harry Houdini initially revered Robert-Houdin but later criticized him after researching his career history. Despite this complicated relationship, Houdini’s escape artistry followed Robert-Houdin’s principle of presenting impossible feats through scientific framing. The emphasis on mechanical skill rather than supernatural claims originated with Robert-Houdin’s Victorian era performances.
.u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#F39C12; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); text-decoration:none; } .u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7:active, .u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7 .postTitle { color:#2C3E50; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u14df2dd0f7ba567ad2e6bce653756eb7:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; }Modern illusionists continue using Robert-Houdin’s theatrical innovations including natural presentation, audience interaction, and mechanical precision. His approach to staging magic as elegant entertainment rather than carnival sideshow fundamentally shaped contemporary performance standards. Influenced magicians across multiple generations have built careers on principles Robert-Houdin established during his 1845 Paris debut.See also
What theatrical innovations did the French magician introduce at Paris theaters?
What to wear dress code availableThe French magician introduced intimate theater settings designed specifically for magic performance at 8 Boulevard des ItaliensWhat to wear is casual daytime attire suitable for a Las Vegas casino environment. Information about dress codes indicates no formal requirements exist for this afternoon show. Comfortable clothing works well since the theater temperature stays moderate. Available seating options all accommodate standard casual wear. Tourists wear shorts, jeans, sundresses, and casual shirts without issue. Avoid overly revealing clothing that might distract from the performance or violate general casino policies. Comfortable shoes matter because walking through the casino floor takes time before reaching the theater. Layers help adjust to varying temperatures between outdoor heat and air-conditioned interior spaces.. His venue seated 200 patrons, creating close viewing conditions that enhanced illusion impact. This contrasted with 19th-century Paris theaters including Palais Royal, Théâtre des Variétés, and Comédie-Française, which featured large auditoriums unsuited for subtle manipulation.
Arrival time videoElectric lighting represented Robert-Houdin’s most significant technical innovation, allowing precise illumination control during performances. Robert-Houdin used directed light to focus audience attention and conceal mechanical apparatus. Gas lighting previously limited Victorian magic because flames could not be quickly adjusted or extinguished.Arrival time recommendations suggest reaching the theater 20 to 30 minutes before the 70-minute show begins. Early arrival secures better general admission seating choices in unreserved sections. The video screens and pre-show announcements start shortly before curtain time. Time buffers account for parking, casino navigation, and restroom visits before the performance. Latecomers might wait for appropriate breaks before ushers seat them to avoid disrupting others. The casino floor between the entrance and theater requires 10 minutes to navigate during busy periods. Box office transactions for will-call pickups add extra time. First-time visitors need additional minutes to locate the showroom within the large resort property.
The French magician replaced mystical costumes with formal evening wear, performing in the same attire as his audience members. This costume choice reinforced magic as sophisticated entertainment rather than exotic spectacle. French magic traditions including card manipulation, mentalism acts, and mechanical illusions became standard theatrical presentations rather than street performances through Robert-Houdin’s influence.Accessibility charm
How did Robert-Houdin’s magic tricks differ from earlier conjurers?Accessibility features include wheelchair-accessible seating, assisted listening devices, and accommodations for guests with special needs. The theater charm derives partly from its intimate setting that keeps all patrons close to the action. Wheelchair spaces integrate throughout the seating areas rather than isolating guests. Companion seating places caregivers next to patrons requiring assistance. Elevators and ramps provide barrier-free access throughout the Excalibur property. Service animals receive admission when properly identified and documented. The craft of magic relies on visual and auditory elements that work for most accessibility needs. Staff assist guests with mobility challenges when navigating the theater layout. Advance notice helps the venue prepare appropriate accommodations for specific requirements.
Robert-Houdin’s magic tricks differed from earlier conjurers because Comparing Mac King to other Vegas magic showsthey emphasized scientific explanation and natural presentation rather than supernatural claims or exotic mysticism . Earlier conjurers performed in flowing robes while claiming genuine magical powers. Robert-Houdin presented himself as a skilled mechanic and entertainer demonstrating clever illusions.Mac King stands out among Las Vegas entertainment options in that King’s afternoon show
delivers professional magic at a lower cost than evening headlinersHis illusions used contemporary technology including electromagnets, clockwork, and electric lighting that audiences recognized as modern inventions. This created effects that seemed scientifically impossible rather than supernaturally impossible. The distinction mattered greatly to educated Victorian audiences who rejected obvious mystical fraud but appreciated ingenious mechanical deception.
Mac King vs Penn & Teller enjoyEarlier conjurers relied primarily on manual dexterity and misdirection, while Robert-HoudinPenn & Teller perform at the Rio, presenting a darker, more intellectual approach to magic that focuses on revealing secrets and debunking tricks. Their evening show costs significantly more than Mac King’s afternoon performance, typically starting around $80 per ticket. Penn & Teller enjoy a reputation for combining comedy with exposure, often showing how tricks work while still fooling audiences. Mac King takes the opposite approach, keeping his methods hidden while delivering lighthearted comedy that families can enjoy together. The detail in both shows differs substantially, with Penn & Teller offering elaborate stage productions and Mac King working in a more intimate theater setting. integrated mechanical devices that performed actual movements. His automaton illusions genuinely moved and operated through clockwork engineering, even though hidden elements created the impossible effects. This combination of real mechanism and clever concealment elevated stage magic into legitimate theatrical art.
Mac King guinea pig vs David Copperfield duckWhat was the cultural impact of Robert-Houdin stage magic in 1845?
David Copperfield commands the highest ticket prices among Vegas magicians, with seats often exceeding $100 for his MGM Grand shows. Copperfield’s production features massive illusions, dramatic lighting, and a serious tone that emphasizes spectacle over humor. Mac King’s service to audiences focuses on accessibility and laughter rather than grand theatrical effects. Copperfield might make the Statue of Liberty disappear, while Mac King pulls a live guinea pig from unexpected places. The white guinea pig routine represents Mac King’s signature style: simple props transformed into memorable moments through perfect timing and audience connection.Robert-Houdin stage magic’s cultural impact in 1845 was elevating conjuring into respectable entertainment for educated audiences during Paris societyBest value magic shows. His Soirées Fantastiques attracted aristocratic patrons, scientific observers, and cultural leaders who previously dismissed magic as lowbrow carnival entertainment. This social legitimacy transformed magic performance into a recognized theatrical profession.
A magician working in Vegas faces intense competition, pushing performers to differentiate their acts or lower prices. Mac King offers the best value among Vegas magic shows because his ticket prices remain under $50 while delivering a full hour of professional entertainment. The white guinea pig trick alone generates more laughs than many full-price comedy shows on the Strip. Budget-conscious visitors can watch Mac King in the afternoon, then catch an evening show or explore casinos without breaking their entertainment budget.Napoleon III commanded Robert-Houdin to perform at court, demonstrating the cultural acceptance his approach achieved. The French Academy of Sciences investigated his Second Sight illusion, treating stage magic as worthy of scientific inquiry. This intellectual engagement validated Robert-Houdin’s approach to presenting illusions as demonstrations of skill rather than supernatural power.Frequently asked questions laugh
The 1856 Algeria mission represented Robert-Houdin’s most significant cultural impact. French colonial authorities commissioned Robert-Houdin to perform for Arab tribal leaders including Abd-el-Kader to demonstrate French technological superiority. His Light and Heavy Chest illusion convinced audience members that French “magic” exceeded their own tribal conjurers, serving diplomatic purposes through theatrical performance.Mac King insider knowledge helps guests plan their visit and maximize their enjoyment of this affordable Vegas laugh factory.
Where can you see Robert-Houdin’s original automaton illusions today?Is Mac King appropriate for children? and guest
Robert-Houdin’s original automaton illusions are preserved at Mac King welcomes guest families with content suitable for all ages, from young children to grandparents. The show avoids crude humor, keeping jokes clean while remaining funny for adults who appreciate clever wordplay and physical comedy.the Maison de la Magie in Blois, France , his retirement home city. The museum houses several working automatons including restored versions of the Orange Tree, Writer, and Trapeze Artists. Visitors can witness these 19th-century mechanical marvels performing their original routines.Can I take photos during the show? and reaction
Additional Robert-Houdin artifacts appear in magic museums across 2 countries, including correspondence, mechanical designs, and performance props. The Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris displays some of his clockwork inventions and mystery clocks. These collections document Robert-Houdin’s dual career as both clockmaker and stage magician.
How early should I arrive? and actModern magicians occasionally recreate Robert-Houdin illusions using historical research and period-appropriate techniques. These performances demonstrate how revolutionary his effects appeared to Victorian audiences unfamiliar with electromagnets and precision clockwork. Robert-Houdin died in 1871, but his theatrical innovations continue influencing contemporary stage magic worldwide.
To secure good seats and settle in before the act begins, arrive 20-30 minutes early. The Thunder From Down Under Theater fills quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons when Mac King’s affordable show attracts budget-minded visitors.