Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Knight Raymond, PhD and Theron Raymond (7th grader)
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and Liberty Magic source local talent for the stage with Michael Misko in I Laugh in the Face of Magic. Misko performs globally, but his roots, family and home are here in Pittsburgh.
Michael is a self-described “professional comedy magician.” Comedy is the antecedent to magic, which proves out in the show. He’s a magical cross between Conan O’Brien and Pittsburgh Dad. He has the Conan hair bounce and self-deprecating humor. He also serves up dad jokes with contextual groaners like “syntax….what you pay in church!”
Misko taps into local color with his opening trick that’s inspired by childhood performances in his basement where he paints the picture of family and friends gathered on folding chairs sipping pop. Like many magicians, his origin story is the gift of a magic set. Misko’s basement tableau is easily conjured and relatable with a local audience. You see everyone nodding along, each imagining their own personal history of basement entertainment.
The intimate Liberty Magic space is ideal for Misko’s easy improvisational banter with audience members, some of whom sit on stage. He remembers names and details with practiced ease while coaching and correcting the collective on when and how to cheer. With the opening trick, Michael builds repetition with the audience as he provides instructions on the unified pronouncement of “Amazing!” His magical training model drives the audience to collectively react to later tricks without his guidance, which fosters a sense of community.
Misko’s magic style is sleight of hand with card, rope, and cup tricks that awe. Again, the intimate space heightens the impact, especially since the sleeves of Michael’s aubergine suit jacket are carefully rolled up for the duration of the show. This heightens the illusion that there is no illusion, just magic.
The show’s penultimate trick is a stunner, but the ending feels slightly awkward. Misko ends with a sentimental song and a slide show of him with his kids that while heart-warming, doesn’t dovetail with the show’s comedic tone.
This show is recommended for 16+ (with age 12 as the minimum). My freshly minted 13-year old co-reviewer was the youngest in the audience, which is typical for him. He handled any off-color humor with grace, so bring the teenagers.
-TKR, Ph.D. & TR
You can see Michael Misko in I Laugh in the Face of Magic through November 1, 2025 at Liberty Magic (811 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222). Liberty Magic also offers a skeleton key VIP experience to go backstage and connect with Michael after the show. Purchase tickets online here.
