A STUNNING show about a master illusionist, his life and tricks comes to Dorset this week.

Houdini, master magician, world-famous escapologist and incredible illusionist, was born in Budapest in 1874 and emigrated to the United States in 1878.

Now Smile Productions have spent five years producing a brand-new show about his life and incredible illusions.

It was in the New World that Houdini was to become internationally famous for his astounding stunts. His death in 1926 is still surrounded in controversy and only this year his great nephew authorised the remains of Houdini to be exhumed - to see if the world-famous magician died because of a ruptured appendix or if he was poisoned.

Houdini The Musical is a story of betrayed friendships, sinister plots, love and sacrifice from the golden age of variety, when The Great Houdini topped the bill.

Some of the most magnificent illusions ever performed will be seen live on stage during the show at the Regent.

The Crystal Pyramid is an ornate glass pyramid that is hoisted high above the stage. Dense white mist fills the chamber but when it is sucked out of the top, Houdini magically appears inside.

The Chinese Water Torture Cell is a legendary illusion in which Houdini is lowered head first into a glass tank of two tons of water. Handcuffed and shackled in a space too tight to turn in, the audience is left gasping for breath as Houdini struggles to make good his escape.

The Dream Levitation is one of Houdini's most famous illusions, in which the great magician floats 15 feet upwards with no visible means of support, then vanishes and re-appears in mid-air.

The cast of 10 is headed by Canadian actor Sean K Andrews as Harry Houdini. His long-suffering but very supportive wife, Bess, is played by Kerry Whiteside.

The six-piece orchestra will be playing original music by Simon Leigh and arranged by Simon Fricker.

The script for Houdini The Musical was written by Jamie Nicklin and Simon Leigh. It has been created for a family audience and is one of the most powerful musicals ever written.

Houdini The Musical - a whirlwind of mystery, magic and music - can be seen at the Regent in Christchurch from Thursday to Saturday, June 21 to 23 June at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Call 01202 499199 for bookings and full details.