The box held by the front-of-house staff member contains the two choices that every Kevin Quantum showgoer must face upon entry. Believer or non-believer? Blue pill or red pill? 

As the queue snakes in, the audience take their seats armed only with an A5 piece of paper and a card. The chandelier above the stage sets a regal tone, while the gleaming metallic shape of a Tesla coil centre stage gives the night a spark of intrigue and anticipation.

Kevin Quantum energetically steps out, electrifying the air. Born in Scotland, and with appearances on Britain’s Got Talent and training with magic legends Penn & Teller under his belt, Quantum is a rare and exciting blend of magician and scientist. And while science might explain some of the physics behind magic, the mystery remains, hidden just out of reach.

The night holds illusions, mentalism, storytelling, sleight of hand, levitation and a healthy pinch of audience participation, entertaining kids and adults alike. The air in the room smells faintly metallic from the high voltage of the coil, crackling with potential and leaving the audience (especially non-believers) craving more. By show’s end, Quantum, like the coil, seems only just beginning to warm up. 

Kevin Quantum: Unbelievable Magic For Non-Believers, Assembly Rooms, until 24 August, 9.40pm; main picture: Geebz.