5 star review fringe 2023

Magnus Danger Magnus is no stranger to the cabaret and burlesque scene. The charismatic performer with the signature baritone voice has also cemented himself as one of the best MCs in Perth. So what’s the rapscallion doing helming a science show for kids? Well, it turns out it’s his passion and it shines brighter than a beacon in Kaboom!

Kaboom! is a frenetic science show featuring all the things you don’t want your kids to try at home. Be it fire, explosions or (way too much) foam, Magnus is game and revs up the audience with his infectious energy.

Magnus admits to not having a PhD but manages to present the scientific facts in easy to understand morsels. The terminology is better suited to the lower primary school kids but everyone will love watching the effects of Magnus’ experiments and his antics. Magnus also cheekily sneaks in random references that only people of a certain age would get, so parents don’t feel left out.

The unexpected takeaways from Kaboom! are the subtle positive messages to the kids. There are moments of fatherly tenderness as Magnus tells everyone that it is brave to put up their hand and admit that they don’t know something, encouraging everyone to keep learning. During one of the segments involving a volunteer, he emphasised to his young aide that he could back out at any time during the section without fear. There are several instances of these interspersed throughout the show. I can’t help but think that these are deliberate inclusions to the script and that Magnus genuinely cares about leaving a meaningful impact on his audience.

Regardless, I wish I had a science teacher like Magnus, growing up. Or Magnus, if you’re reading this, maybe you could be the next Miss Frizzle and start a podcast called “The Magnus School Bus” so that I can stream it? For my son of course…

Kaboom! is running now until 11th February – book your tickets here!