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Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows
8–29 August
5:15pm
Magic with heart — and a masterclass in stagecraft.
James Phelan’s Showman does exactly what the title promises: it delivers a full‑throttle celebration of charisma, charm, and old‑school spectacle, wrapped in a modern, heartfelt magic show that leaves audiences of all ages glowing.
From the moment you step inside the tent, you’re transported into a world of glitz, glamour, and retro showbar sparkle, evoking the 80s and 90s with warm nostalgia. It’s an atmosphere that doesn’t just set the tone — it invites you into the magic.
James channels the legacy of his late uncle, Paul Daniels, with unmistakable confidence and stage presence. He’s a natural entertainer: quick‑witted, effortlessly charming, and completely in control of the room. The audience is eating out of the palm of his hand, whether he’s delivering razor‑sharp humour or pulling off mentalist moments that leave the crowd genuinely perplexed.
Where Showman truly shines is in its interactions with younger audience members. James creates sincere, gentle moments of wonder that feel personal and deeply meaningful. His reminder that “those who believe in magic are the ones who find it” becomes the emotional heartbeat of the show — a message that resonates across generations and inspires future magic lovers.
He doesn’t rely on huge, flashy illusions. He doesn’t need them. The magic comes from connection, craft, and the joy of shared astonishment. By the finale, the tent is full of wide eyes, open mouths, and pure delight.
A show that proves the simplest moments can be the most magical.
Written by Suzzi Hirst
@suzzisspotlight
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