Maho Magic Bar - Adelaide Fringe Review
Be transported to the street nightlife reminiscent of the streets of Tokyo, Japan through the Maho Magic Bar.
The neon-lit exterior of the bar is a highly popular photo destination amongst Fringe goers, and entices you to discover what lies behind the closed doors of the venue.
As soon as you step through the doors of the bar, you are immersed in the atmosphere and mystery which lies behind the bar table you are seated at. Five of Japan’s finest tricksters and magicians descend upon you as you sip away the night; Shirayuri, Santa Terakado, Kaori Kitazawa, Sarito, and Sho Eba.
The bar menu has a selection of Japanese spirits and cocktails which are made by a special bartender at the front of the bar. Even if you don’t have a beverage in hand, the experience of the bar will still be a unique immersive experience for you.
Featuring a special bar menu as well, each time someone orders from this menu, a special skit is activated, drawing the audience to the front of the bar to witness the chaos and illusion about to unfold in front of their very eyes.
On the night I attended, I was the subject of one of these special skits, where I had the wool truly pulled over my eyes. Being up close and personal, I experienced the charm, illusion, and high-energy of the tricksters and magicians, before realising that the rest of the audience could see what was actually transpiring.
Each of the trickers and magicians within the bar have a very distinct personality and make the immersive experience highly engaging and entertaining.
Host Sho Eba engages the audience and momentum of the immersive experience with a touch of inflated self-confidence, sass, and glitter.
Kaori Kitazawa is the embodiment of the kawaii culture which is synonymous with Japan. Challenging the stereotypical representations in a male-dominated performative art, she performs a range of card tricks.
Shirayuri, with his smooth and charming mannerisms will have you questioning for days about his trick. Let’s just say, your ability to smell may not be the same afterwards.
Sarito, self proclaimed as the craziest magician in Japan lives up to his name. His craziness is at times, scary and intimidating. His magic tricks combined with being an eccentric jokester is both bizarre and hilarious.
Santa Terakado ultilises the assistance of his magical creatures to deliver his tricks and illusions, taking a distinctively different approach to the other trickers and magicians present.
Maho Magic Bar blends the intricacy, fun, and satire of Japan’s finest trickers and magicians all in one. The tricks and illusions at times are somewhat questionable, but these moments are inherently obvious as it’s not to be taken that seriously in these instances.
The experience of the bar is truly a unique one and the hour that you’re within the bar simply passes by with the click of your fingers.
If you’re looking for a high-energy, jam-packed, and laughter-filled time with tricks and illusions, a seat at the Maho Magic Bar awaits you and your friends.
Rating: ★★★★★
Show information: Maho Magic Bar - Adelaide Fringe
