Toronto Fringe Review: Kyra De Magica

Bridging the gap between performer and audience, Kyra De Magica pulls individuals (literally) into the colourful world of a phoney teenage magician.

Played by Kyra Tang, our protagonist begins the show by laying down some ground rules, rooting the audience into the world of the play. But, the audience members are more than background characters in Kyra’s story. In fact, audience participation is integral to the enjoyment and rhythm of the show. Luckily, Tang has a mystical ability for improvisation, keeping the whimsy flowing regardless of audience reaction.

While there is a predetermined plotline and structure, there are many variables that change during each performance. Paired with unavoidable showtime mishaps, this can create quite some chaos. Unfortunately Kyra’s alleged future-telling abilities don’t extend to technical blunders, as some clumsy moments could be prevented with a change in prop or timing. Fortunately, the general mess and fumble adds to the charm of a misfit 16-year-old attempting to gain the affections of a celebrity.

Beyond the gimmicks and gags, there is a heartfelt story written by Kyra Tang. Brought to life with direction from Derek Kwan, Kyra De Magica shows snippets of a teenage-hood that many young Asian-Canadians share—overbearing mothers, overwhelming extracurriculars, and an overly lonely social life. These are important issues mentioned with sincerity, but once intercut with unexpected humour, it’s a reminder that sometimes laughter is the best medicine.

Kyra De Magica won’t showcase acts of card-guessing or coin-disappearance, but the humour and heart is just as magical. Taking interactive theatre to an enchanting realm, get ready to participate in gleeful mischief!

On now until July 15 as part of Toronto Fringe. Show times and tickets here.