8 hidden gems at this year’s festival
Published on: June 21, 2025
Of course we’re all going to see the International Magic Superstars Eric LeClerc, Tobias Dostal, and The Great Kaplan… But don’t miss out on some of the hidden gems tucked away in this year’s massive program. Here are 8 great shows worthy of your attention:
8 – Curious Biz
This is the perfect family show for kids of all ages. Evoking Chaplinesque physical comedy, with circus slapstick, and charming magic, you’ll be amazed as Justin combines his skills in magic, music, circus & physical comedy for an unforgettable afternoon of hilarity. A family friendly show that combines the comedy antics of yesteryear with a neurotically modern twist.
2.45pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Cardini Cabaret (Discount Tuesday, all tix just $18)
7 – Tales From Asteroid B6-12
Inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s classic The Little Prince, magicians Clement Kwok and Aby Thomas explore what it means to be an adult who’s a child at heart. Clement discovered magic at the age of 8. Aby started magic only 8 years ago. Clement always loved The Little Prince. Aby wasn’t sure what all the fuss was about. A shared love of connecting to others through wonder brought the two together and launched a journey of self discovery, reinvention and sheep. Join them as they unearth the magic of childhood through bubbles, origami, stars and roses. Be a part of a show like no other, inspired by a book like no other and rediscover that “what is essential is invisible to the eye.”
6.15pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Close Up Gallery (Discount Tuesday, all tix just $18)
6 – Escaping Reality
Amid our busy schedules, we often forget to hit pause and savour the little moments. With this show, Patrick invites his audience to step out of the daily grind, escape reality for a while. So sit back, relax, and let the magic unfold. This is a delightful and thoughtful show for adults to enjoy as it takes magic to a whole different level. (A great pairing with ‘Tales From Asteroid B6-12’)
7.30pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Close Up Gallery (Discount Tuesday, all tix just $18)
5 – Dane Certificate’s Imagination
This is more than just a show – it’s an art/music/magic exhibition
“The magic wasn’t in the transformation of objects, but in the transformation of perspective. The audience, a little quieter, a little more thoughtful, slowly began to applaud.”
Dane Certificate won the prestigious ‘Director’s Choice Award’ last year with his innovative show ‘The Sun & The Moon’. This year he will premier his new show “Imagination”.
Dane presents the art of magic unlike anyone else – and takes you beyond the tricks and into your very soul.
Don’t miss this show.
8.45pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Close Up Gallery (Discount Tuesday, all tix just $18)
4 – The Great Armando Magia Magia
The Great Armando is back with his award winning show: “Magia Magia”, an enchanting and magical journey for the whole family and a sold out sensation for the past 2 years at the festival.
You will be transported to a world full of wonder, jaw-dropping illusions and interactive fun. The Great Armando will take you all on a thrilling ride of surprises with his trademark humour, endearing charm and an Italian accent that can only be real. Welcome to his bel mondo!
The Great Armando, a Melbourne Magic Festival favourite, is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages, whisking you away to a world of awe and pure magic!
12.45pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Houdini Theatre (Discount Tuesday, all tix just $18)
3 – World of Wonders
“Magic is about more than just tricks.
It can tell a story. Take you on a journey. Introduce you to new worlds.
This is my world I created when I was a child and that I shared with my grandfather – the man who introduced me to magic.
Using the medium of magic, World of Wonders explores the power of our memories and the importance of cherishing the past.
The compelling narrative is interwoven with an array of mesmerising magic, but not magic as you’ve seen it before. The traditional top hat and wand are replaced by a nice sweater, a pot of tea and lots of biscuits.”
This is the new show by rising magic superstar Lachlan Wilde. It’s not about the tricks, it’s about the journey you take to uncover the real magic.
6.30pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Cardini Cabaret (Discount Tuesday, all tix just $18)
2 – Dazzling Dan The Magic Man
ONE SHOW ONLY!
A rare opportunity to participate in live magic!
Dazzling Dan casts a spell over you, breaking your reality, sharing magic experiences usually reserved for close friends.
Live magic thrills from your seat, or alongside Dazzling Dan, the closest you’ll get to a real magician.
8.30pm – July 8-13 – Arrow Hub, The Slydini Showroom
1 – Fun & Games
Just $5 per person??!! That’s right! Join us for a half hour of magic themed fun and games where EVERYONE wins a prize!
Let’s play classic party games like pass the parcel, statues, bean toss, and even a bit of magic trivia thrown in as well!
Your host, Magic Festival Director TIM ELLIS, will make sure everyone has an amazing time and you might even learn a bit about the secret art of magic as well!
(Don’t worry adults, Tim will make sure you have an equal chance to win some prizes as well!)
This is the perfect BONUS SHOW to add to a trip to The Melbourne Magic Festival. See a great show, then play some games and win some magical prizes before you head on home 🙂
1.45pm – July 8-12 – Arrow Hub, The Slydini Showroom
