The Belfast Maskers are brewing up something mischievous this month with its production of "Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic", by Matt Cox. This irreverent satire is currently in production through November 23, at the Basil Burwell Community Theater, 17 Court Street in Belfast.

"For anyone who ever felt like they were the side character in someone else’s epic story, Puffs offers a hilariously fresh perspective on the familiar world of wizardry," said Belfast Maskers.

Instead of following the famous chosen boy, the play turns its attention to the Puffs—a group of well-meaning, underachieving students who just want to survive seven chaotic years at a certain school of magic. The high-energy parody celebrates the underdogs who never quite get their moment in the spotlight, finding humor and heart in the shadows of greatness.

The Puffs, and other denizens of the school, are played by a capable ensemble cast of players—most familiar, but some new to the Belfast Maskers stage: Maci Burgess, Cassidy Small, Olivia West, Katey Stearns, Ember Hoffman, Willa James, Angela Domenichelli, Jana Hoffman, Emily LeBlanc McConnell, Linnea Harrold, Elaine McKee, Patricia Saucier.

"The Maskers cast conjures a fast, funny, and surprisingly touching show that manages to both skewer and salute the stories we grew up on," said Maskers. "Audiences can expect lightning-speed storytelling, pop-culture nods, and more wand-waving absurdity than you can shake a broomstick at."

The production is helmed by Gwen Sauvage, who is no stranger to Belfast Maskers but is making her full-length directorial debut for the company. 

"When I first opened "Puffs", I expected a parody. I didn’t expect to find myself crying over a group of misfit wizards," said Sauvage. "But that’s what this story does—it sneaks up on you," said Sauvage. "Underneath the jokes and the chaos is something honest: a story about belonging, friendship, and finding your place, even when the world seems to overlook you."

Audiences should note that Puffs contains some adult language and themes, and is best suited for teens and adults who don’t mind a little satire mixed into their spellwork.

The First Bank in Belfast was a major sponsor of "Puffs", the final show in Belfast Maskers' 2025 Season. The Maskers plan to announce their 2026 season in early December.

Tickets are $15–$18, and can be purchased through the Belfast Maskers website or at the box office. "Puffs" performances are Thursday through Saturday at 7 PM, with Sunday matinees at 2 PM. More information is available at http://belfastmaskers.com