In This Side of the Impossible, mentalist Sebastian Boswell III presents audiences with a remarkable spectacle that defies all notions of logic and apparent physical possibility. Challenging our perceptions of what’s real and what’s achievable by mental practice, Boswell III crafts a tightly constructed show in which he displays a series of experiments that range from memorizing cards using different images, to hammering a nail down his nose only to pull it out whole a few seconds afterwards.

Whether one believes him to be the real deal or a phony magician, the show is so well structured that you’re not even given time to consult yourself and explore any doubts that might remain, as Boswell III performs his acts one right after the other. The show is also highly participatory, but the mentalist makes a point out of only involving members of the audience who seem very keen to participate. In fact it’s the interactions with these members that make for some of the most memorable moments in the show.

As with any sort of dramatic entertainment, the success of This Side of the Impossible depends on whether we’re able to suspend our disbelief or not. By the time the show is over it’s enchanting to see audience members line up to speak to Mr. Boswell and ask if they too can become versed in the arts he performs so well. Other audience members reach out to fellows who took part as volunteers in the show just to ask them if they were in on the trick beforehand. Whether his powers come from the supernatural or merely well done trickery, Mr. Boswell had everyone under his spell.