If only Ben Hart was performing during the Victorian era, he would receive the roars, squeals and screams he deserves. Instead, he’s playing to a crowd of seen-it-all 21^st century cynics, so while the incredible tricks he delivers are astounding, the audience is impressed and supportive rather than mind-blown. Which is in part down to the venue, for while it’s great to see this hugely talented magician play the Pleasance Grand, it’s hard to feel the true wizardry of close-hand magic when it’s, well, not close. He’s tried ever so hard to combat this by using a live camera relay for the intricate bits but a screen can only convey so much wonder.

^{Picture: Matt Crockett}

And, as the title suggests, ‘wonder’ is what this show is all about. Hart plays a replicated version of himself, eager to return to the days when he didn’t know how any of this magical mastery was done, so he can experience the same wonder we do. From disappearing cards to letters miraculously scrawled on a board without human hand, seemingly impossible Rubik’s Cube combinations to mathematical answers he couldn’t possibly have known, Hart baffles with each and every trick. You can almost hear our collective brains whirring, desperately trying to figure out how any of it is done. 

Which is, of course, a hiding to nothing because flawless execution, and giving no hint whatsoever of the painstaking process behind it are all part of the service. It’s also worth mentioning that in a world often dominated by OTT showmanship, Hart comes across as genuinely warm and in possession of humility. Talent, skill and likability: now that’s a holy trinity worth shouting about. 

Pleasance Courtyard, until Sunday 28 August, 7.50pm.