The Surveillance Society: ‘Stalker’ Show Explores the Dark Side of Tech

Penn & Teller’s latest show explores the idea that everyone is being stalked and everyone has become a stalker

Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung for Stalker show in NYC

If you thought you’d seen it all when it comes to mind-bending magic, think again. The Stalker show, a new and electrifying production, is taking New York City by storm, leaving audiences in awe and disbelief. Swedish magicians Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung are the masterminds behind it, and Stalker promises to push the boundaries of what you thought was possible in the world of magic and mentalism.

Have you ever felt like you’re being watched? That’s the unsettling feeling at the heart of Stalker. So, whether you’re a lifelong magic enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and thrilling night out, get ready to be amazed, intrigued, and maybe even a little bit scared as you witness the impossible unfold before your very eyes.

Note to the wise: if you want to improve your chances to be a part of the show, make sure to show up about 30 minutes early, and hover near the stage. However, if you show up right on time, don’t sweat it, you’ll still have a few opportunities to be chosen for smaller activities during the performance (and that is all we are willing to reveal).

What is the Stalker show all about?

The magic show Stalker in NYC is a unique and innovative production presented by Penn & Teller and performed by Swedish magicians Brynolf & Ljung. It combines elements of street magic, illusions, and mentalism to create a mind-bending experience that explores the intersection of technology, surveillance, and human perception.

The show is set in our current age, in which information about anyone is just a click away, and it delves into the themes of surveillance, data collection, and the impact of technology on our culture and perception of ourselves. The magicians use a combination of physical mentalism and illusions to create a show that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Stalker features a variety of tricks, including a climactic plot twist that promises to leave audiences both exhilarated and bewildered. Directed by Edward Af Sillén, known for his work on the Eurovision Song Contest, it features lighting design by Jamie Roderick and sound design by Drew Levy.

Who are Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung?

Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung in the Swedish TV show Street Magic
Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung in the Swedish TV show Street Magic

Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung are a Swedish magic duo known for their innovative and thought-provoking illusions. The pair first stunned the magic world in 2009 when they took home the silver medal in Comedy Magic at the prestigious World Championships of Magic in Beijing. They next competed in the first season of Penn & Teller: Fool Us!, which led them to open for Penn & Teller in Las Vegas in 2011.

From 2015-2017, they starred on their own TV show, Street Magic, which aired on Sweden’s largest television network, TV4, with half a million viewers each week. They then toured the country with Hokuspokus Motherf*ckers (2016-2017), Cirkeln (2018-2020) and the original production of Stalker (2021-2022), selling out concert halls and arenas.

What are the critics saying about the Stalker show?

The critics’ reviews of the Stalker show in NYC have been mixed. Some critics were wowed by the performance, describing it as one of the best magic/mentalist acts they have ever attended, praising the interaction with the audience and the fun and amazing experience it offers.

However, some reviewers pointed out that the show may not fully integrate its themes about surveillance and modern society into the magic tricks and audience interactions, leading to a somewhat disjointed experience.

Additionally, while the show has been commended for its clever tricks and use of technology, some critics have noted a lack of charisma on stage from the magicians.

Overall, opinions on the Stalker show in NYC vary, with some praising its innovation and mind-bending magic, while others highlight areas where the show could further enhance its coherence and stage presence.

What Audiences Are Saying About Stalker

Where to watch the Stalker show in NYC

The Stalker show in NYC is currently playing at New World Stages, located at 340 West 50th Street, New York, 10019. The show runs for 1hr 30min with no intermission.

How to buy tickets for the Stalker show in NYC

There are several ways to purchase tickets for the Stalker show in NYC:

Official Website

  1. Visit the official Stalker website:
  2. Click on the “Get Tickets” button and choose your preferred date and time.
  3. You can then select your seats and proceed to checkout.

Online Ticket Sellers

These websites offer various options, including regular-priced tickets starting at $54, potential discounts, and sometimes last-minute deals.

Stalker is Coming to NYC!