Cast Announcement: The Disappearing Man

Posted on July 22nd, 2026

Today we’re excited to announce that Matt Burdock (New Blood, Casualty, A Touch of Frost) and Debra Baker (Unforgotten, Doctor Who, My Mother’s Funeral: The Show) will lead the cast of The Disappearing Man opening at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch before touring this Autumn.

Featuring live onstage magic, The Disappearing Man is a new drama about legacy and second chances from award-winning Essex playwright Kenny Emson.

Returning to the once-glittering Clacton-on-Sea, Bazza Cadabra is ready for a final comeback, determined to reclaim the spotlight and prove he’s still got what it takes 20 years after his prime. But at the heart of his ambition is something far more fragile: his re-kindled relationship with his son. As Bazza faces a flashy young magician, a no-nonsense new manager and the family he left behind, their reunion sparks hope, rivalry, and the possibility of something extraordinary. 

The cast is led by Matt Bardock as magician Bazza Cadabra alongside Debra Baker as Barry’s sharp-witted ex-wife Wendy, the mother of his son.

“Kenny’s skill at creating messy, complicated characters is stand-out and helping shape this production as we head towards rehearsals is an exciting and invigorating challenge. This is our first new production under my tenure as HighTide’s Artistic Director and I’m really excited to be working with Matt and Debra leading the cast.”

– Titilola Dawudu, HighTide Artistic Director

“I’ve got a fair few tricks to perform throughout the production. We have a bullet catch to do, some card tricks to do, some flowers to produce, and some juggling. It’s a beautifully written play that approaches mental health through the world of magic. The proposition honestly scares and thrills me in equal measure. I can’t then think of a reason not to do it!”

– Matt Barbock, Barry

“I’ve long admired Kenny Emson’s writing. Although we’ve never worked together before, I’ve seen his plays and have always loved how relatable they are. He writes with such honesty, humour and heart, and I especially appreciate seeing older working-class people represented so truthfully on stage. Returning to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is another real joy. Over the years I’ve taught youth groups there as well as performed in several productions, and it’s always felt like such a welcoming creative home.”
– Debra Baker, Wendy

Tickets are on sale now, to find your nearest venue, click here.