If you’re searching for a Fringe show that kids will love and parents will genuinely enjoy, Josh Staley: Wacky Wizardry Goes Wrong is a standout choice at Adelaide Fringe 2026.
Internationally recognised magician Josh Staley is known for his refined, world class sleight of hand, even representing Australia at the World Championships of Magic in 2025. In Wacky Wizardry Goes Wrong, however, he deliberately throws precision out the window, creating a playful, high energy magic comedy adventure where chaos takes centre stage.
Designed for children aged 4 to 9, and the adults who bring them, the show flips the script on traditional magic. What starts as an attempt to perform the “world’s greatest magic trick” quickly spirals into a whirlwind of slapstick comedy, physical theatre and magical mishaps. Malfunctioning wands, rebellious props and a scene stealing army of rubber chickens send the show spectacularly off course, much to the delight of the audience.
One of the show’s most special moments sees the entire audience working together to help fix the magic, creating a shared memento for everyone to take home. It’s an interactive experience that carries a simple but powerful message: we can make magic together.
Behind the silliness is a performer at the very top of his craft. Staley’s elite background, including Fringe awards, international recognition and even a Guinness World Record, allows the show to strike a careful balance between joyful ridiculousness and confident technique. The result is a performance that feels playful on the surface, yet thoughtfully crafted from start to finish.
Described by critics as “undoubtedly one of Australia’s best magicians,” Wacky Wizardry Goes Wrong is a parent trusted Fringe favourite, delivering big laughs, real magic and carefully orchestrated chaos. It proves that sometimes, when everything goes wrong, the best magic happens together.
Location: The Kingfisher at Gluttony, Rymill Park
When: 21 February to 22 March 2026 (selected dates), 2.30pm
For tickets, go to: adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/josh-staley-wacky-wizardry-goes-wrong-af2026
