An interview with Andrew Basso
Italian escapologist and illusionist, Andrew Basso has more than a few tricks up his sleeve, when he takes to the stage in Now You See Me Live. Based on Lionsgate’s worldwide blockbuster film franchise, Now You See Me Live is a stage illusion spectacular that boasts an explosive mix of high-tech illusions, solo stunts, and jaw-dropping spectacles.
Andrew chats to Men’s Weekly about his craziest stunts, his pre-show routine and shares some clues about what to expect from Now You See Me Live.
1. Who is Andrew Basso?
If Houdini and Tom Cruise could have a son, the result would be Andrew Basso — a magician, who takes extreme risks performing live, death-defying stunts purely for your entertainment.
2. What inspired you to become an escapologist and illusionist?
I was eight years old, with my mother Clara, when I saw a magician make a red ping-pong ball disappear in his hand and reappear in hers. I’ll never forget the look of awe on her face when she opened her hand. In that instant, the dream of my life was born — to create that same feeling of wonder for others, for the rest of my life.
3. What have been some of the most challenging and memorable stunts you’ve performed?
When I was 17, I was handcuffed and chained inside a trunk submerged in a lake — at night. I’ve been strapped into a car seat with lockable belts, inside a car hanging off the edge of a cliff — the only thing holding it was a burning rope. I had about 90 seconds to escape.
I’ve been locked inside a safe located in a vault containing millions of dollars in gold. Unfortunately, the challenge was escaping — not stealing the gold.
Once, I was chained inside a nailed-shut wooden coffin with 60 seconds to escape before a speeding car would crash into it and blow it apart. Even if I’m still here, it didn’t go well that time.
In another challenge, during a training session at the military base in Rome, I was handcuffed and blindfolded next to a timed bomb. And, of course, there’s the time I put a live African scorpion in my mouth. Come on — you didn’t buy a ticket to Now You See Me Live just to see card tricks, did you?
4. Your work requires immense physical and mental strength. How do you prepare? Do you have any pre-show rituals or routines?
I train six days a week — focusing on breathing sessions, cardio (including running and underwater swimming while holding my breath), and strength workouts at the gym. Then there’s the magic practice — which happens basically every time I breathe.
To balance it out, I “train” my taste buds just as much. I love cooking and dining out — six dinners a week is my reward. Good food is my favourite form of meditation.
5. What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job?
Making people escape their ordinary lives — even for a few moments — through the wonder, adrenaline, and mystery of my performances. Sometimes, I get to be the figure that inspires others to achieve the impossible, just like that magician who inspired me when I was eight years old.
6. What’s your ideal way to unwind on your day off?
When I’m touring abroad, I spend my days off exploring unique places and discovering amazing restaurants. I love tasting new cuisines beyond my beloved Italian food.
On performance days, I can’t really indulge — it’s not ideal to hang upside down in a straitjacket with a scorpion in your mouth and a full stomach!
7. What can audiences expect from *Now You See Me Live*?
Now You See Me Live features four of today’s greatest illusionists, each bringing the best of their repertoire — from mind-blowing mental feats to death-defying escapes, from hilarious audience interaction to adrenaline-pumping onstage moments.
It’s a magic show for the whole family, with the flavour and excitement of the Now You See Me movies. Be warned — you might have too much fun while keeping a close eye on your jewellery! We are magicians and pickpockets... but with style.
8. What have been some of the most memorable audience reactions?
People have fainted. It happens.
9. What are you most looking forward to doing during your time off in Australia?
I’m not sure how much time I’ll have off while we are on tour, but I do I’m looking forward to exploring and taking a stroll through the diamond district...
10. Why should people come and see *Now You See Me Live*?
Have you ever seen a magic show that feels like a rock concert? If not — that’s why you should come. If yes — Now You See Me Live will still blow your mind.
The production, the energy, and the level of skills on stage makes it one of the most successful touring magic shows in the world. It’s going to be an unforgettable night.
See Andrew in Now You See Me Live, which will make its Australian premiere this summer, playing at the Sydney Opera House (19 December – 3 January), QPAC, Brisbane (8 – 18 January) and Crown Theatre Perth (23 January – 1 February). For more information, visit: www.nowyouseemelive.com for details.
