Ted and Marion Outerbridge, Legendary Canadian Illusionists (MBC image)
A family-friendly magic show that blends large-scale illusions, storytelling and local history, inspired by a Smiths Falls Home has made its mark globally.
Ted and Marion Outerbridge created “Outerbridge Magic: Mysteries of the Keyhole House” after moving to Smiths Falls about eight years ago. The internationally touring performers had considered settling in Las Vegas before returning to their dream of living in the Ottawa Valley.
Their introduction to Smiths Falls included a small act of kindness – a teenage boy holding a door for them at the local Tim Hortons – that immediately made the community stand out.
The couple believed they were simply purchasing and restoring a beautiful house. However, the property’s history and the objects they discovered inside soon inspired something much larger.
The Keyhole House was built in 1892 and was once home to Agnes Lamb, the niece of Alexander Wood. Wood was a partner in the Frost and Wood company, which played a major role in the early growth of Smiths Falls and once employed a large share of the community.
Ted and Marion in the “keyhole” of their beloved home
Marion says items found inside the house, including old keys hidden behind a fireplace mantle and a golf ball connected to the former Poonamalie Golf Course, became part of the production.
The show follows a Victorian mystery and includes a friendly ghost character that has become especially popular with younger audience members. Marion said children enjoy the visual illusions, while adults are often drawn into the historical story.
That combination has helped the production connect with audiences well beyond the Ottawa Valley.
Coming soon, we’ll tell you all about the Outerbridges’ highly successful tour of China, and the coincidence during one of their stays that’s hard to believe.
Marion says now local audiences do not need to travel far to experience the world-class production.
So, once again, performances are being held Saturdays at 2 p.m. until Labour Day at The Pews in Merrickville. The converted church offers an intimate, air-conditioned theatre with about 200 seats.
The Outerbridges said they remain grateful to call Smiths Falls home while sharing the community’s history with audiences around the world. Tickets are available here: Outerbridge Magic Homepage – Outerbridge Magic
Listen to the complete interview with Ted and Marion Outerbridge below.
