It’s back for its sixth Adelaide season with a new host and a bevy of fresh tricks. The Maho Magic Bar in the depths of The Garden of Unearthly Delights is set up like an intimate haven in the backstreets of Tokyo with its neon exterior, interior filled with cherry blossoms and moody lighting. Punters are seated at one of four bars or at the central table, and the magic comes to you, with the magicians rotating around the room. This way, nobody misses a trick – literally! Everything happens inches from your face, props are placed in your hands, and everybody is involved. I’m told that on busier nights there are two rows of seats at each bar/table but on this Thursday early evening, we are pleasantly happy to be front and centre to all the action.

We order drinks using a QR code and they are brought to the table very quickly. In between the magicians who rotate between the tables/bars, there are “all together” acts in front of the main bar. These are great fun and Comet deserves her own shoutout. As the resident mixologist magician, her dexterity behind the bar is astonishing and she truly gives Tom Cruise in Cocktail a run for his money.

This year’s line-up includes a tight ensemble each with their own personality and aesthetic. The close-up sleight of hand is fascinating from all of them, Shirayuri with his loaf of bread, Kaori Kitazawa with her cheeky cards, and Shingo – the standout for me. His comedic timing, effortless rapport, and uncanny sleight of hand with coins makes his set both hilarious and technically impeccable. The main act with his balloon antics is also great fun. E. O. Lee is another favourite. His routine involves a Gashapon (toy vending machine) is incredulous, but also may incite a great amount of apprehension due to the prop used – you’ll have to attend to find out more. And then there is Erica from America in her first Adelaide Fringe season. She brings poise and a warm rapport with the crowd in the all-important roles of host, magician, and the “glue” that holds the show together and I hope she has opportunities to shine even brighter as the season unfolds.

Having always wanted to attend this show, I can’t believe I waited until now to attend. It is certainly worth the hype. Get along to experience some sleight of hand at its most up-close-and-personal.