Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Knight Raymond, PhD and Theron Raymond (6th grader)
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and Liberty Magic continue their 2025 show series with magical power couple Kalin and Jinger in Real Magic. The illusionists waste no time in validating their multi-year accolades as Magicians of the Year.
The show opens with an invitation from Mark Kalin to participate in an “experiment in trust” as he implores the audience to “trust me with your imagination.” Kalin channels the deliberateness of Mr. Rogers as he carefully removes his velvet blazer to start the show. After then rolling up his sleeves, he performs a series of astonishing illusions with white balls. Being sans blazer with exposed forearms heightens the effect as there’s literally no hiding place for physical objects. Kalin is leisurely in his sleight of hand, moving slowly, as if daring us to “catch” him, and yet, we can’t, even in the intimate space of Liberty Magic.
Like many magicians, Kalin and Jinger rely heavily on audience participation. While their show is appropriate for older children, their act demands adult participation. Having strangers negotiate the stage with the magicians provides interactive fun and moments of levity while also validating the show’s authenticity.
The love between Kalin and Jinger is no illusion; it’s palpable and authentic. Kalin always introduces wife Jinger Leigh as beautiful and talented. She is lovely, and her array of costumes and glittering high heels add sparkle beyond her personality to the show. Jinger’s talents include both illusionist and mentalist. Her feats of mentalism put Sherlock Holmes to shame. The audience collectively reacts aghast in wonder as she unveils facts about audience members.
The show opens promising we will “exit in astonishment,” which can’t help but feel like an overstatement. However, it is a promise fulfilled. Our imaginations partner with Kalin and Jinger to suspend disbelief.
Today’s world can feel markedly less astonishing when answers are an easy keyword search away on our phones. However, that makes finding and experiencing the power of astonishment even more enriching and impactful. Kalin and Jinger’s Real Magic is worth seeking out. While you will indeed exit in astonishment, you won’t want to exit but instead find a way to linger in amazement, delaying reentry to reality.
-TKR, Ph. D & TR
Liberty Magic is celebrating six years in Pittsburgh. Keep the magic alive in the steel city with Kalin and Jinger in Real Magic through March 2, 2025 at Liberty Magic, 811 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222. Purchase tickets online here.
