*****

5 Stars

I have to admit that magic shows are not normally my bag, however I was persuaded by a friend that I should check out Ali Cook as he was amazing, and I have to admit that in spite of my preconceptions I had to agree.

Cook is a personable entertainer and a red hot magician to boot.

Throughout the hour he demonstrated slight of hand, close up magic, mind reading, card trick made thing disappear and reappear almost at will, in fact seemed to do the impossible more often than not.

There was plenty of audience participation through out his set, a set that just went way too fast for all.

I was fortunate to be sitting in the front row during his performance, yet try as I might I have no idea how these tricks and illusions, were done.

As a finale Cook and his team have redesigned a Houdini escapology routine aiming to beat the master’s time. And that is probably worth the admission money alone.

I have to admit my friend was right, Cook was excellent throughout and just maybe I’ll have to re-think my previous opinion on magic shows in the future.

*****

Reviewed by Geoff

Gilded Balloon Billiard Room V 14

4 to 30 August

21-45 to 22-45

Fringe Brochure P24