If you’re heading to the Smoky Mountains and looking for a fun, family-friendly evening activity that’s a little bit mysterious, the Impossibilities: An Evening of Magic, Mindreading, and Mayhem promises to deliver. Sitting in the cozy Iris Theater, right inside Gatlinburg’s famous Space Needle, this show has garnered rave reviews, holding a perfect 5.0 star rating from nearly 400 happy visitors.
What makes this experience especially appealing? First, the show’s mix of comedy and magic keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging for both kids and adults. Second, the audience participation is a highlight, turning spectators into part of the magic, which creates memorable moments for everyone involved. However, it’s worth noting that the show lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes—so if you’re tight on time, it’s a nice, manageable evening plan.
This isn’t a production for those seeking a high-tech spectacle or a lengthy show; rather, it’s a compact, energetic performance packed with surprises that showcase the skills of master magicians Chris Collins and Erik Dobell. If you enjoy surprises, lively crowd interaction, and a good laugh, this show could be just the ticket. It’s especially suited for families, groups, or anyone who appreciates a bit of playful mystery.
Key Points

- Family-friendly entertainment that appeals to all ages
- Audience involvement enhances the magic experience
- Affordable price for a highly-rated, 1.5-hour show
- Located conveniently at Gatlinburg Space Needle, with easy parking
- Show’s duration leaves plenty of time for other activities
- Highly praised for humor, engagement, and mind-blowing tricks
A Closer Look at the Impossibilities Magic Show

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sevierville.
Location and Accessibility
The Iris Theater, situated in the historic Gatlinburg Space Needle, makes this show highly accessible. Its central location means you won’t need to hunt around for parking—most reviews mention that parking is right across the street, making it an easy addition to an evening of sightseeing or dining. The theater has a small, intimate setup, which many reviewers say enhances the experience by making the show feel more personal and engaging.
How the Itinerary Unfolds
The show is a well-paced 1 hour 15 minutes of pure entertainment, blending comedy, magic, and mindreading. The star of the show, Erik Dobell, is a Master Mentalist known for reading minds and performing seemingly impossible feats. Audience members are frequently invited to participate, which is a significant highlight; one reviewer called it “very interactive” and “funny,” with everyone having a chance to get involved.
Audience Participation and Crowd Engagement
Many reviews rave about how the magicians involve the audience. Kathleen R. described the experience as “baffling,” mentioning that “the whole audience got to participate,” and Jessela W. loved how “everyone was involved in the shell.” Erik Dobell’s ability to make participants feel like part of the act adds a layer of authenticity and fun, making each show unique.
The Magic and Mindreading
Expect tricks that seem to defy logic and leave you questioning what just happened. Kaila B. summed it up well: “Very entertaining, laughed the whole time,” and even those who have seen the show multiple times say Erik Dobell’s skills are “outstanding,” and he’s “psychic.” Many reviews emphasize the stunning tricks and mindreading abilities, leaving audiences genuinely baffled.
The Atmosphere and Entertainment Value
Given the small venue, the environment feels cozy and less like a big production and more like a private magic gathering. This intimacy means better interaction and more laughs, which viewers like Lorenzo A. said “actually made the show better.” The tone is light, humorous, and family-friendly, with many reviews mentioning how much everyone, from kids to seniors, enjoyed it.
Pricing and Value
At $30.95 per ticket, the show offers excellent value, especially considering how highly it’s rated and how many reviewers talk about being “completely amazed.” It’s an affordable way to enjoy an hour and a half of entertainment that leaves you wondering how the tricks are done. Reviewers like Amy D. note that Erik is “very entertaining” and “quick with a joke,” making the cost feel justified.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly rated and consistent quality based on nearly 400 reviews
- Audience participation creates memorable moments
- Short duration fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule
- Convenient location with easy parking
- Family-friendly, suitable for all ages
Cons:
- Non-refundable policy might be a concern if plans change
- Performance depends heavily on audience interaction, so results may vary slightly
- Limited seating capacity means tickets should be booked in advance
Who is This Show For?

This magic show appeals most to families, couples, and groups looking for an entertaining evening with little planning required. If you enjoy watching skilled performers combine humor and mystique and don’t mind a small, intimate setting, this is a fantastic choice. It’s also perfect for anyone curious about mindreading or seeking a lighthearted escape during a trip to the Smoky Mountains.
The Sum Up

The Impossibilities Magic Show offers a fun, engaging, and surprisingly affordable experience in Gatlinburg. It’s a performance that brings together magic, comedy, and audience participation, making it much more than just a typical magic show. With consistent 5-star reviews, it’s clear that both kids and adults walk away genuinely surprised and entertained.
This show is an excellent addition to any Smoky Mountain itinerary for those wanting a lighthearted evening that’s packed with astonishing tricks and hearty laughs. The small venue and focused duration keep it manageable, meaning you can enjoy this magic without it dominating your evening plans.
If you’re seeking authentic entertainment that emphasizes crowd interaction and memorable surprises, the Impossibilities show fits the bill. It offers great value for the cost and guarantees a fun, mystifying experience that you’ll be talking about long after the lights go out.
FAQ

Is the show suitable for children?
Yes, the show is family-friendly, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Many reviews mention kids having a great time participating and laughing along.
Can I buy tickets in advance?
Yes, pre-booking is recommended to guarantee your spot, especially since the show is popular.
How long is the show?
The performance lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, leaving plenty of time for other activities afterward.
Where is the show located?
It’s inside the Iris Theater, in the lobby of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, a central and easily accessible location.
Is the show wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the proximity to public transportation and central location suggest it’s reasonably accessible.
What is the cost?
Tickets are $30.95 per person, offering good value given the high praise and entertainment quality.
Is parking easy?
Most reviews note parking is right across the street, making it very convenient.
Can I participate in the magic?
Absolutely. Audience participation is a core part of the performance, and many people are invited to join Erik Dobell on stage.
Are refunds available if I change my mind?
No, the tickets are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
What is the best time to see the show?
Evening shows typically start around 8 pm, fitting well into a day of sightseeing and dining.
Whether you’re a magic enthusiast or just looking for a lively night out, the Impossibilities Magic Show in Gatlinburg promises a memorable, fun-filled experience full of surprises and laughs—you might even leave wondering, “How did they do that?”
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