Katie Bender—Harry Houdini enthusiast, mom, struggling artist—says she’s been leaving her house after the kids go to sleep… sneaking into TPA’s rehearsal studio, stealing items from the prop shop and artifacts of Houdini’s from the Harry Ransom Center. She’s attempting to contact Houdini himself. So far, she has failed. But for one week in April 2026 she’s inviting you to try it with her. In this unique immersive theatre, DIY experience—created and performed by writer/artist Bender—the audience is invited to summon the spirit of escape artist Harry Houdini and maybe, in the process, break free from the traps in their own lives. Instructions for a Séance is a playful yet poignant exploration of motherhood, artistic ambition, and the urge to disappear. Inspired by the Houdini archives at the Ransom Center, Séance is a 70-minute theatrical gem: compact, gleaming, and utterly unforgettable.
Audience Role
Seance attendee.
Ages: 16 +
Content Advisories
Interaction Advisories
Mobility Advisories
Tags
11
Events
3
Years on EI
About Fusebox Festival
Founded by a group of artists in 2005, the festival features unique live performances from Austin and around the world at sites and venues across the city, ranging from intimate galleries, theaters, and clubs, to large scale projects springing to life in parks, under bridges, and across entire neighborhoods. The next festival is coming up April 7-14, 2024. We hope to see you there!