Kaboom!, Showmen Productions 
The Hat Trick at The Pleasure Garden, 22 January 2023 
Reviewed by Hannah Peterson (age 11)  

Bringing amazing experiments to the stage, Magnus D (for Danger) Magnus does indeed put on a spectacular science show.  

From the moment we walk into the packed tent, we know we are in for an experience. The bright colourful lights flashing around the stage and the loud atmospheric music help set the mood, so when a booming voice rings over the PA with warnings not to come on stage or press the flashing orange light at the front, the crowd is ready.  

Of course, the warnings are not listened to, and with the press of the orange light by a brave boy, the show begins. 

Magnus D Magnus is a larger-than-life entertainer, and his energy is infectious. He has everyone engaged from the start, bantering with adults and children alike as he fills beakers with liquid, making everyone laugh and curious about what he is going to do. Magnus tells us he loves science and wants to show us how much fun science is. 

He performs six experiments, each one super cool and captivating – think liquid nitrogen, chemical reactions and fire. Multitasking, funny fails – did I mention fire! – and, of course, lots of gasps and laughter. I can’t believe he actually set his own hand on fire!  

Magnus is extremely good at audience participation and encourages two kids up on stage to help him, which gives a good vibe. He maintains this engagement and energy throughout Kaboom!, making it super enjoyable and easy to watch. 

My favourite part is – spoiler alert! – a special surprise guest appearance by Magnus’s cat Artimedis, brought on stage by his lovely assistant Rebecca. The cat is sooo cute and adds a clever lead in to an experiment around cryogenics and liquid nitrogen.  

I would rate Kaboom! 10 out of 10 because it is everything a science show should be and more. It’s entertaining, captivating, intriguing, cool and, of course, humorous.  

I would recommend the show for children ages 4-12 but any age will enjoy it. It’s 50 minutes of pure fun.  

Kaboom! is at The Hat Trick at The Pleasure Garden until 12 February 2023.

Pictured top: Magnus D Magnus has some crazy experiments in ‘Kaboom!’. Photo supplied.