Marginal Review: Adults Only Magic Show

Suspension of disbelief is a must for any magic show; leave skepticism at the door and enjoy being fooled. It’s a sight to be enjoyed, not over-thought.

With 60 minutes of adult humor, sleight of hand, illusions, mentalism, and a chance for nudity, it’s a timeless combination well done.

Showmen Sam and Justin warm up the crowd with their raw larrikin banter. The duo’s endearing playfulness is well-launched, and any impending sense of disappointment is always saved by a well-executed twist and a healthy dose of comedy.

The revelations may be greeted with pleasure rather than complete astonishment, but the acts are impressive enough to see conversations on the way out punctuated with “but how…?”, which perhaps offers more of an indication of their quality rather than an initial reaction.

The show isn’t as risque as its “Adults Only” title suggests, and that’s not a bad thing. The humor is brazenly suggestive but harmless and in no way rude.

The art of stage magic is to draw in the audience, break their trust, and then repeat. He’s relying on the crowd to bring the energy, to meet the performers halfway through, and it didn’t quite gel on this occasion, perhaps because the rambling, COVID-sure crowd didn’t brought the energy of a room full of Fringe-goers.

They are above all two talented best friends doing what they love. There is an authenticity that goes beyond the need to amaze the audience; it’s feel-good magic and, in its context, utterly enjoyable. Plus, there are free drinks for anyone subject to public participation.

Adults Only Magic Show is playing Flamingo in Gluttony through March 21.

Read more Adelaide Fringe reviews and previews here.