2010 Edinburgh Fringe
Pete Firman review
Be warned - Jokes and Tricks has some funny jokes and some very impressive tricks, but as with all magic shows, Firman also requires volunteers. If you aren't up for it, don't avoid the show; sit towards the back, because it is well worth seeing.
Firman's tongue-in-cheek style and clever rapport with the audience leave him worlds apart from the old style cheesy magician, and there is no beautiful, scantily clad assistant. The comedy element of the show is very funny, but more importantly, he pulls off being very funny whilst performing a series of very impressive tricks.
Besuited and wearing more product in his hair than your average teenage girl, he works his way from one trick to the next, linking through the silly, the strange and the astonishing with consummate ease. All props are pulled from his no expenses spared 'table de magique'; the only typical element of this magician.
Although some of the audience members were a tad reticent, and the volunteers not leaping at the opportunity, Firman has a way of putting them at ease, and making it a non-threatening experience, even whilst taking their £20 notes and in one case, their right shoe. Although as Britain's only 'shoeologist', it was well worth giving it up.
If you don't like the comedy element of the show, there's plenty else for you, and it is definitely worth going along for a new spin on an old style. And if you were ever unsure about your own baking skills, note his method of making a cupcake; it is quite something.
(Editor note: If you don't get a chance to see Firman in Edinburgh, you may be interested to learn he will be touring the UK from 19th September 2010. For listings see www.petefirman.co.uk)
Pete Firman: Jokes and Tricks listing