The audience was pumped as they waited for James Galea’s combined comedy and magic show I Hate Rabbits to begin. It was clear there were a few fans amongst the crowd as I watched people show off their magic tricks with plastic beer cups and coins.

Once inside the auditorium, the hyped-up atmosphere was accentuated by fresh fast-paced music and the sweltering heat. The crowd clapped along to Pink, and the guy next to me moved to the groove in his chair. People fanned themselves with their tickets. The red velvet stage curtains were heavy and out of place in the beach party atmosphere.

James bounced on stage bursting with energy. With the charisma of an evangelist, he worked the crowd, psyching them up for a great evening. With practised charm he gained the audience’s participation and support.

James certainly looked like a comedian in his funky reflective sneakers, glittery black t-shirt and black jeans. A five-o’clock shadow completed the casual look, and the outfit suited his devilish good looks. I’m sure that they encouraged more than one girl to come and see his show.

The stage consisted of a few props and a huge movie screen. The screen was essential throughout the show, presenting close-ups of his work, which would have been hard to see in the back pews. It was a little distracting to look back and forth between James and the screen, but it certainly showed his confidence and skill that he was allowing such close scrutiny of his legerdemain. I suspect his show would work better in a more intimate setting, thus avoiding the need for the screen. It would also have prevented the occasional microphone trouble he experienced throughout the evening.

There is no doubt that James is very clever. He talked as fast as his dexterous hands moved, and he combined practised one-liners with playful off-the-cuff remarks. Occasionally an audience participant was the butt of a smart-aleck comment, but often it was James himself on the sharp end of his own wit or a self deprecating comment. However, sometimes he talked too fast, or performed a trick too quickly before moving on to the next one. The audience needed more time to keep up with his skilful moves and banter.

The show itself was a delight. The audience was frequently gasping in awe or rolling with laughter, usually at the same time. Some of the tricks appeared to be unique to James, others were novel revivals of old favourites.

James ensured that the audience left the show feeling energised and upbeat, and perhaps believing a little in real magic.

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