Experience Magic in San Francisco's North Beach
The Magic Magic Show Show remains a standout memory in the history of San Francisco's vibrant performance scene. Eschewing the tired tropes of traditional stage illusions—no doves, no top hats, and certainly no coins pulled from behind ears—this production offered a refreshing take on the craft. Instead, audiences were treated to a series of incredible and insane miracles, characterized by clever, ridiculous feats that defied logical explanation. Set within the intimate, historic walls of North Beach's Doc's Lab, formerly known as the legendary Purple Onion, the show captured the unique, bohemian spirit of the neighborhood.
About the Performers: Bradmagic and Andrew Evans
The brilliance of the evening was driven by the dual-identities of its creators, Brad J. Aldridge (Bradmagic) and Andrew Evans. Both performers brought a unique perspective to the stage, blending their professional expertise in branding, experience, and product design with the art of illusion. Bradmagic, a frequent contributor to Genii, The Conjurors' Magazine, has long been a fixture in the academic and performance circuit, having shared his insights at institutions like CCA, SFAI, and UC Berkeley. His partner in crime, Andrew Evans, brought a global perspective to the show, having performed on six continents. Evans is well-known in the Bay Area for his ability to bridge the gap between magic and design, a passion that eventually led him to establish The Magic Patio, an exclusive, invite-only magic theater and bar in San Francisco.
Visiting the Historic Doc's Lab Venue
Doc's Lab served as the perfect backdrop for such an unconventional performance. As a venue that has hosted everything from comedy and jazz to literary showcases, it provided an atmosphere that felt both professional and deeply personal. The space allowed for a level of engagement that larger theaters simply cannot replicate, making the "Magic Magic Show Show" feel like a secret shared among friends. While the venue has evolved over the years, its legacy as a cornerstone of San Francisco's cultural landscape remains intact, reminding us of the nights when North Beach was the undisputed epicenter of creative performance in the city.