Putting Some Canadian into NYC’s Magic Mike Live
Written by Will Jones
Magic Mike is a title that instantly conjures mental images. An idyllic combination of perfect bodies and supreme dancing talent, this brand which received so much praise from the public and critics (including Film Independent Spirit Awards, New York Film Critics Circle Awards, and nominations from the People’s Choice Awards and MTV Movie + TV Awards) is coming to the New York City stage in 2026. Magic Mike Live NY is scheduled to debut in the fall of this year at a new venue currently under construction. Leading the production behind the scenes are industry luminaries Katie Zanca and Vincent Marini; Choreographer/Co-Director (Primetime Emmy Award Nominee) Alison Faulk; Choreographer/Associate Director Luke Broadlick; and film star and Co-Creator/Producer/Director Channing Tatum (People’s Choice Award Winner). The production scoured the planet for the perfect cast with the acting and dance ability to make Magic Mike Live as sensational as the film franchise. Alexandre Deakin is excited to be among the leads in this production. Best known to fellow Canadians for his starring role in the BAFTA Award Winning television series The Next Step, Deakin is already gaining a new fandom of Americans after a series of appearances with Channing Tatum in NYC to promote this most recent endeavor. Magic Mike Live opens in October 2026 at the corner of 47th street and 8th Avenue (1 block west of Times Square)—a venue where fans can fully experience the iconic show.
The Magic Mike Live cast and team officially launched the production in January during a media tour that included NBC’s Today show; the Drew Barrymore Show; Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen; and appearances at Condé Nast, Peoples, and Today Tix. Additional promotion included Channing, Alexandre, and others serving coffee at Ole & Steen; a flash mob event where performers were cleverly disguised as construction workers, a re-creation of the iconic “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” photo atop the Rockefeller Center; and an @hotdudesreading (1.3 million followers) photoshoot. The unconventional nature of the promotion reflects the unique production that is rumored to include various dance styles and musical approaches; for example, aerial work, and drummers descending from the ceiling. The storyline focuses on the main character of Mike and his growth throughout the show, carrying the audience along with him to witness the spectacle.
Deakin’s experience lends itself well to the originality of Magic Mike Live. After having displayed his dancing and acting prowess, he recalls, “The callback day was a grueling six-hour long experience. Weeks later, during the online interview, I was asked ‘What is it you think women want most?’ I remember replying with honesty and commitment ‘Every woman wishes for transparency and no secrecy to be kept from them. The building blocks of any healthy relationship is founded by truth.’ I think they already knew who had the talent and skill for this show but they also wanted a motivation that comes from a sincere place. Afterall, the MML experience itself is for women and those who love them.” Magic Mike Live is much more than talented sexy dancers; it’s a modern presentation of the idyllic man who values and respects women. The confident masculinity of the performers recognize and honour the femininity of others. In this world, it is possible to have it all.
On a personal level, Alexandre Deakin finds a great deal to appreciate while being in Magic Mike Live. For one, it’s his first time being in an all-male cast. As an artist and a dancer, it combines his three great loves of fitness, dance and music. In addition to rubbing elbows with Channing Tatum, he’s performing with some of the greatest dancers on the planet.
“I could not be more excited to perform onstage alongside some of the most talented down-to-earth men I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. When it comes to the team, they are incredibly talented. The choreographers have danced alongside some of the most famous artists of our generation. They’ve been nominated and received awards and also have beautiful families and amazing personalities. All in all, I could not be more blessed and proud to be working alongside this beautiful team of people,” states Alexandre.
