Will Frow will race to escape 100ft of rope near the scene of Houdini’s famous Humber stunt as part of two days of events to mark a century since the legendary performer’s death
Will Frow with the rope he will attempt to escape from during Hull’s Houdini centenary celebrations.(Image: Submitted)
A Hull magician is marking the centenary of world-renowned escape artist Harry Houdini’s death with a daring escape attempt close to the spot where Houdini staged his famous Humber escape in 1914. Will Frow will challenge members of the public to tie him up in 100ft of rope, then see whether he can escape faster than they can fasten him in.
The 24-year-old will attempt the Houdini-inspired challenge beside Victoria Pier and the Minerva pub at 2pm on Thursday, October 29. Volunteers will bind him in strong, half-inch-thick braided rope. Their time will then become his target as he struggles to break free in front of the crowd.
The outdoor event is free to watch. According to Hull Magicians’ Circle, 8,000 spectators watched Houdini escape from handcuffs and chains in the river in the stunt more than 100 years ago. Now the Circle is marking 100 years since his death with two days of events, including a free family magic show at Trinity Market and an evening exploring the escapologist’s extraordinary life.
Will said: “The volunteers get to tie the knots, and then I have to get out faster than they tied me in. It sounds straightforward until you’re the one wrapped in 100 feet of rope. I don’t resemble Houdini. I’m 6ft 4in tall and Harry was 5ft 5in. He claimed his small, stocky physique gave him an advantage in his escapes. I’m skilled at card tricks, but this escape attempt is something completely different.
“Houdini drew thousands of people to Hull’s waterfront. I’m hoping for a good crowd too, preferably one that’s on my side.”
Houdini performed at the Palace Theatre on Anlaby Road during visits to Hull between 1903 and 1920. He died aged 52 on October 31, 1926, but his name remains synonymous with seemingly impossible escapes.
Jon Marshall, who is organising the events for Hull Magicians’ Circle, said: “Houdini was a masterful publicist. He knew how to get Hull talking. More than a century after thousands watched Houdini’s Humber escape, young Will is giving families another reason to gather by the pier and ask: ‘How on earth is he going to get out of that?’
“A hundred years after his death, people still know his name. We want to celebrate that extraordinary showman, Hull’s part in his story and the excitement of seeing magic happen right in front of you.”
The celebrations begin on Wednesday, October 28 with Astonishing!, a free Houdini-themed family show at Trinity Market. Running from 1pm to 2.30pm, it will feature stage magic and juggling, alongside close-up magic performed among the audience.
Following Thursday’s waterfront escape challenge, the Circle will open its doors for a special Houdini Night with expert Michael Diamond. The evening will include demonstrations of handcuffs and restraints and a recreation of a Houdini séance. Local researcher and author Roger Noble will also attend with his recently published book, Houdini in Hull.
It starts at 7.45pm on Thursday, October 29 at Men in Sheds Community Centre, First Lane, Anlaby. All are welcome and admission is £5. Both the Trinity Market show and the rope escape beside Victoria Pier are free to watch.
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