Kevin Quantum is challenging audiences this year by bringing his magic show to the Edinburgh Fringe, especially for those who do believe in magic. I have caught up with him in the week just before all the Fringe magic begins.

Where did the inspiration or ideas come from for your show/production?
It started with the question: why do we believe what we believe? I wanted to explore how easily we can be fooled—and what that says about our brains.

What do you plan on doing to relax and get some “time out” during the Fringe?
I wish I had time out! I’ve got three kids on top of the show. Time out is waking up at 4am to put the wee man back to sleep.

How do you deal with stage nerves before each performance, if you have them?
I’ll never get over them. But these days I distract myself by trying to improve one part of the show—a new line, posture, bit of pacing. If there’s a chance tonight’s show will be better than yesterday’s, the nerves ease off a bit.

Where are you staying during the Fringe? Did you find accommodation quite easily?
I live in Edinburgh so I’ve actually got the rare privilege of sleeping in my own bed during the Fringe—don’t hate me.

What obstacles have you faced preparing for the Edinburgh Fringe this year?
Working out how to safely bring a million volts of electricity on stage without setting off every alarm in Edinburgh took a bit of doing. But we got there.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Probably launching a Tesla coil on stage on national television and living to tell the tale.

Why did you decide to the Venue you are using?
It’s a grand, stunning space with great sightlines—and it’s air conditioned. What more could you want?

Favourite and worst thing about performing?
Favourite: that moment when the whole room gasps at the same time. Worst: that moment when they don’t.

In one sentence why should someone come to see your show?
Because you’ll witness something impossible—and leave wondering if it really was.

Name one other show that you plan on seeing at the Fringe?
Garry Starr: Classic Penguins. It’s daft and brilliant and exactly what I need after frying my brain on illusion design.

Where are you taking your show next?
UK Tour starting September! Aberdeen, london, Norwich, Glasgow… and everywhere in between. sign up to newsletter at  for more info!

Show Title, time and Venue
Unbelievable Magic for Non-Believers, 7.40pm at the Assembly Rooms Ballroom on George Street.

https://quantummagician.com/

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/kevin-quantum-unbelievable-magic-for-non-believers