I’ve been a long-time fan of Dom Chambers ever since I watched him perform as part of a larger troupe in The Purple Rabbit. I’m familiar enough with Chambers’ unique brand of magic to know that his show is the highlight of my annual Fringe season, and this year is no exception. Currently performing his renowned show ‘A Boy and His Deck’ in the Virago tent at Gluttony, I’m hesitant to call it a ‘magic show’ because I feel this undersells what you’re getting for your $40. In truth, A Boy and His Deck is part magic, part comedy, part theatre - all wonderment.
I’ll admit, while I’ve always had faith in Chambers' sleight-of-hand, I was hesitant to commit myself to an entire hour of card tricks. Reader, I implore: don’t let this thought lead you astray. Chambers has perfected the logistics of his stage setup so you’ll always have a prime view of the tricks (performed right on his bed), and while this may be card magic - as with anything done by Dom Chambers - it’s not as you know it. Expect the classic tricks, reimagined favourites, complexities beyond your comprehension, and jaw-dropping revelations, performed with Chambers' distinct Aussie flair and humour.
You don't just become a master of magic, a purveyor of scintillating cardplay, the Fake Wizard himself. It takes years, if not decades, of committed practice and passion. It's this journey A Boy and His Deck takes us on over the course of an hour. You can expect to learn how an adolescent Chambers was able to overcome adversity and ego (note: not his own), from the comfort of his bedroom, to become one of Oceania’s most revered and entertaining performers in his own right. At its core, A Boy and His Deck is surprisingly profound, carried by a narrative that’s more insightful and fulfilling than Fake Wizard. It’s a love letter to magic and his younger self - recited in front of stunned faces and raucous applause - proving that you don’t need to conform to societal norms or archaic expectations to achieve your childhood dreams.
If the euphemistic name didn't tip you off, this show is decidedly not for kiddies. Mind you, the rest of us guilt-free childless adults undoubtedly derive enjoyment from the inevitable confrontation when Chambers spots a pre-schooler in the audience. (As ashamed as I am to condone it, there is ALWAYS a culpable parent who takes one for the team and makes the show funnier for the rest of us). Chambers is an expert at audience engagement, he puts you at ease immediately with his conversational stage presence and larrikin-like disposition. This helps you settle in for a night of awe and laughs - and might even make you more amenable to volunteering yourself on stage. As someone who’s been called on stage myself before, I promise you’re in good hands. You won’t be sawn in half or thrown into the Aztec Tomb, you’ll simply be channelling the same eccentric energy that gives Chambers his unmistakable talent.
This is a one-man show in its truest sense of the word. Chambers is an Aussie act who doesn’t have the luxury of a management posse or publicity team. As such, he relies extensively on his raw talent and word of mouth to promote the show. This review is the least I can do to promote what is undeniably my favourite show of the Fringe, and I strongly encourage you all to see it, believe it, share it, and then see it a second time.
Dom Chambers is performing in Gluttony until March 23. Buy tickets to Dom Chambers: A Boy and His Deck here.
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