It's not hard to understand why Piff the Magic Dragon is so popular – he's hilariously funny, tremendously talented and has a teeny tiny chihuahua in a matching costume. I've always been a fan of simple old-school sleight of hand; the sort of magic that doesn't require bells and whistles but still manages to mesmerise. Piff delivers just that and so much more. It's hard to say whether he's a comedian who performs card tricks and illusions or a magician who uses comedy because he's so adept at both.
His deadpan humour and timing are perfect, as is that of his amusingly dour assistant, Amy Sunshine. The show is interactive, calling upon many different audience members to partake as they hold things, shred things, sign things and more. He calls them down in a Price is Right-esque fashion, the response often being squeals of joy and glee. I was particularly impressed with his ability to suffer fools graciously, as he often had to repeat instructions. He mocked his volunteers gently and carried on, never missing a beat.
The Fringe is a unique environment; you never really know what you're going to see – so experiencing a professional manipulate dozens of fragile props whilst simulataneously entertaining a large crowd and parading around in a dragon costume with a similarly-attired pooch was nothing short of a pleasure. Piff is quite simply delightful.
