In a time when artificial intelligence is dominating social media and the internet, it’s becoming harder than ever to tell what’s real and what’s not. Magic, in particular, has been impacted by this shift. Many performers on TV rely heavily on camera tricks, edited footage, and planted audience members to create illusions. While magicians like David Blaine still keep things authentic by performing in front of unsuspecting spectators, others — like Cris Angel and Justin Willman — often lean on heavy camera edits and accomplices, which can make their performances feel less genuine.
That’s why live magic shows remain one of the most compelling ways to experience the art form. Nothing compares to seeing illusions unfold in real-time, right before your eyes. And Champions of Magic: Chasing the Unbelievable delivers exactly that — a fast-paced, family-friendly live show filled with awe, suspense, and entertainment for all ages.
The current lineup features a talented group of performers from around the world: Young & Strange (Richard Young and Sam Strange, UK), Liberty Larsen (USA), and Fernando Velasco (Mexico/USA). Together, they present a well-balanced mix of close-up magic (projected on a big screen with the help of a mobile camera team) and large-scale stage illusions. Each performer takes turns throughout the show, allowing the audience to enjoy a range of magical styles and personalities.
Champions of Magic: Chasing the Unbelievable
One of the most intense moments comes from Fernando Velasco’s big escape act, where he attempts to free himself before a set of sharp jaws collapse into him. With a visible countdown on screen, it builds real suspense—even if we know, deep down, that he’ll make it out safely. Some of his smaller tricks, like the needle and thread routine, felt a little underwhelming and he did have a minor slip-up. But he bounced back with a creative version of the classic “Assistant’s Revenge” illusion, using saran wrap and help from the other magicians to deliver something fun and unexpected.
Champions of Magic: Chasing the Unbelievable
Liberty Larsen, a fourth-generation magician, adds a refreshing presence to the show. With deep roots in the magic community — her family helped found the Magic Castle, Genii Magazine, and the Academy of Magical Arts — she blends history with performance in a way that’s both personal and engaging. Her levitating cane routine was one of the show’s most graceful moments, and her interactions with the audience, especially kids, were genuine and heartwarming.
Champions of Magic: Chasing the Unbelievable
But the real showstoppers are Young & Strange. Their combination of stage presence, comedic timing, and technical skill sets them apart. Their rapport is natural, and they keep the energy high whenever they’re on stage. One particularly funny moment involved Strange producing beams of light from an audience member — a clever bit that got big laughs. They wrap up the show with a Vegas-style grand finale, complete with a showgirl and large-scale illusions that feel straight off the Strip. Even if you’ve seen similar tricks before, their personality and delivery give them a fresh twist. Young & Strange are the best magic duo since Penn & Teller and Siegfried & Roy.
While the show is a lot of fun overall, there are a few areas that could be improved. The camera work during the close-up segments was shaky at times, making it hard to focus on the finer sleight-of-hand. The sound work also needed some refinement — there was noticeable echo in the mics, and it was occasionally difficult to understand what the performers were saying. Some of the storytelling segments went on a bit too long and slowed down the momentum.
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As for the show’s claim of not using any actors or stooges and that volunteers are selected at random – it’s not entirely true. The first child volunteer seemed prepped ahead of time, likely for safety reasons. There are at least four other instances where the randomly chosen audience member is questionable. So much so, that for one of them, a woman behind me noticed something and mentioned it to her husband. Still, these didn’t take away from the experience or the magic being performed.
There are also a few logistical notes worth mentioning. If you’re sitting near the front, be prepared for some strong smells during certain acts — gasoline and theatrical smoke are part of the show. And there are bright, flashing lights throughout, so guests with sensitivities should plan accordingly.
Rowell E./PopWire
To fully experience the show, I brought along my 8-year-old nephew, Desmond. It was his first live magic show — and his first time seeing any kind of stage production. Watching his reactions was a joy in itself:
• “That was cool!”
• “What the fudge?!”
• “Thank God he’s alive!”
• “That was hella fun!”
He did get a bit fidgety during the longer talking segments (as did a few other kids around us), but as soon as the action picked up, all eyes were back on the stage.
The show is clearly designed with families in mind. There are discounted bundles for groups of four, and the merch table features a special prop used in the show that most kids will want to take home. I’d suggest picking up one for each child to avoid any post-show squabbles.
Verdict: Champions of Magic: Chasing the Unbelievable is a laugh-out-loud, heart-pounding, jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring, must-see experience. The high-energy, visually impressive, and often hilarious live show delivers something for all ages. While it occasionally drags and could use some technical fine-tuning, the combination of strong performances, audience engagement, and grand illusions makes it a great night out. Whether you’re a longtime magic fan or just looking for something fun to do with the family, this show is well worth checking out.
For tickets and to see if the show will be in your area, visit the official Champions of Magic website.
