A glittering spectacle of illusion, sleight of hand, mind reading and audience interaction, this is a fun-filled entertaining show. James Phelan knows how to put on a show and builds up the anticipation with ease: he chats freely with the audience, gently encouraging – and having a cheeky banter with – his willing participants. The audience is a key part of the show and Phelan uses this with confidence and charm.
There are fascinating interludes where Phelan explains how he discovered his love of magic and developed his skills. He cleverly weaves his storytelling around the magic tricks and even when you can see it happen in front of you, it still makes you marvel at just how he manages to make the magic come to life. From words to names to situations, this is all a mystery: it does not make sense how he does what he does, nor how he knows what he knows.
In a world where we are so exposed to social media and fake news, it is a real joy to be in the presence of old school magic (with the help of some modern-day technology) where we can bask in the glory of sheer wonderment. Phelan has a quote that he stands by: “those who believe in magic are those who will find it,” and with this show, you will absolutely have found it. Get your tickets while you can.
Show Time: 12-13 Aug @ 17:30
McEwan Hall at Underbelly, Bristo Square
Ticket Prices: £16-£18
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/james-phelan-the-man-who-was-magic
Warnings: Audience participation. Additional information: Sirloin Tickets - Your extra £6 gets you priority admission to the venue & a seat in the centre section! Please arrive no later than 10 mins to access these seats. Please note the £6 is on top of the advertised price and will display in the final basket cost.
Space accessibility: Wheelchair access type: Level Access. Stairs: None. Number of stairs is provided as guidance and is not in addition to any wheelchair access type (lift/ramp etc) stated above. Wheelchair Access, Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. May not apply to all performances.
Age suitability: 12+ (guideline). Babes in arms policy: babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: children under 2 years.