Maho Magic Bar

Overview

Fancy a trip to Japan without heading to Japan? Well, Brisbanites, Maho Magic Bar has you covered. The dazzling show is courtesy of the creative folks at Broad Encounters, and is in residence in Northshore Hamilton's neon-lit pop-up entertainment precinct Twilight Electric until Sunday, September 18.

The best bit? The magic happens tableside, with mind-bending magicians — straight from Japan's magic bars — roving the room as you sip. What else can you expect? Well, it's a bar, performance space and show all in one. Bright lights set the mood, cherry blossoms hover above and sake and shochu lead the drinks menu (though there's beer, wine and booze-free options, too). Designed to replicate a night out in Shinjuku, your experience will be one of hedonistic wonder.

Nathaniel Mason

The ace thing about the setup: whether you adore magic or don't think it's your thing, you're still in for a ripper night. The atmosphere (and the drinks and those lights) are a massive part of the allure, though prepare to have your mind swayed by the roll call of stand-out magicians. There's the gender stereotype-busting Kaori Kitazawa, daring close-up magician Sarito, the style-heavy talent Shirayuri and Santa Terakado, the quirky toy magician. And your host? Actor and Brisbane local Sho Eba.

If you're ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Japan (literally), you'd better be quick to grab your tickets.

Maho Magic Bar is on from Wednesday, July 27 till Sunday, September 18. For more information and to grab your tickets, head to the website.

Top images: Kate Prendergast (first), Nathanial Mason