It’s not the size of your wand that matters, it’s the scale of your dreams. That’s according to Sam, Justin and The Ringmaster, who sets the tone of this high-pace, high-energy show from the very beginning by adding stinky-butt babies to his top-of-the-show welcome. Now in its sixth year, this is a silly, skilful and slick show with plenty of audience participation, expertly handled so that even the shyest wee volunteer feels comfortable. 

Sam and Justin’s classic double act is at the heart of its success: Sam is polished and very much in charge while Justin’s funny bones make the perfect foil. This generates a panto-like energy, with back-and-forth routines, plenty of puns and balloon business getting lots of giggles from the young audience. But it would be a mistake to downgrade this pair’s magical abilities: tricks come thick and fast among the slapstick and fart jokes, and there are genuine ‘how did they do that?’ moments. 

The Greatest Magic Show is for the whole family but its unrelenting energy means very small children might find it a bit too much. Just as the adults in the room could be reaching the same conclusion, they slow it right down for a touching and sweet finale, where the secret to all magic is revealed. As Justin would say, ‘the crowd goes mild’ and are sent back into the gardens sprinkled with stardust and a new sense of wonder to go with their free magic wands. 

The Greatest Magic Show, Assembly George Square Gardens, until 28 August, 2.30pm.