The Disappearing Act of Maria Angelico

Review of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Cindy, a magician’s assistant, is played by Maria Angelico, but the show’s star has disappeared, leaving her to entertain the crowd.

She goes on a rant about the strange, dysfunctional, and sexist relationship between conjurer and female sidekick as it becomes all-too-obvious she doesn’t have any tricks. Her job is to appear attractive, remain silent, and perform all of the unseen work necessary to make the man appear impressive and powerful – all while wearing an uncomplaining grin on her face to make it appear as if she is enjoying this humiliating situation.

As the monologue progresses, it becomes clear that Cindy has specific, personal reasons for harboring even more vehement aversion to magicians – reasons that appear to be inspired by Angelico’s own experiences.

The metaphor of women being put in boxes is evident, yet it’s used carelessly. The pace is slow at first, but as the ‘show must go on’ tension fades, Angelico subtly draws us into this story and the pressures of being the ‘ideal’ submissive woman.

As she goes through the stages of annoyance, understanding, and finally defiance of her difficult boss in her dramatic monologue, she demonstrates her acting range. The script is full of humorous lines, and Angelico brings a clownish comedy to her act when it’s called for, notably in the visually ludicrous ending.