Edinburgh Fringe 2026
David Alnwick: Objectively The Best Magician
David Alnwick
Genre: Magic, Magic and Mentalism
Venue: Liquid Room – Studio (venue 276)
Festival: Edinburgh Fringe
Low Down
This is a free magic show at the PBH Free Fringe by long-time professional David Alnwick.
Review
Alnwick’s magic show at The Liquid Rooms is an entertaining and engaging performance that captivates both children and adults from start to finish. When he brings audience members on stage, as is to be expected at some point during a close-up magic show, he creates a sense of participation that makes everyone feel part of the magic.
Alnwick’s show is one of many curated by Mark Simmons at the PBH Free Fringe venue and you could see why he was booked by the comedian within the first ten minutes of his show. With some comedic flair, he spoke speedily about misdirection during a sleight of hand trick that felt like a personal illusion even from the middle row. He also dazzled his audience with a series of mind-bending predictions from telling us all the names someone was thinking to what words are on a page of an audience member’s book, bought today. Alnwick demonstrates an uncanny ability to read both people and the room itself, as we all responded with disbelief, laughter and amazement.
One of the show’s strengths was Alnwick’s performance style. He cleverly acted as though some of the magic was difficult for him, coming close to getting it wrong. This created a tension and anticipation for our benefit, a reminder that the magician is human and this is a skill. It was a theatrical touch that enhanced the experience and made each reveal feel even more satisfying.
It was a joy to watch Alnwick’s genuine love of magic, even after it being his job for over fifteen years. He spoke warmly about other magicians and shared stories from his own journey in the craft. The touch of storytelling included an anecdote about an interaction with another renowned magician at a prestigious festival (not the one you’re thinking of) and left us curious for more ‘behind the curtain’ stories.
Alnwick has two more shows at the festival this month which I hope to get to because this one was a charming, funny and skilfully performed lunchtime show that sets you up well for the rest of the day.
