Magic shows vary in format, but may include:
- Large-scale stage illusions and theatrical magic
- Close-up magic and sleight-of-hand performances
- Mentalism and mind-reading acts
- Comedy magic and family-friendly entertainment
- Touring illusion productions
Many magic shows are produced by world-renowned magicians and illusionists and are staged in theatres, performing arts centers, and mid-size venues.
Expectations for a show would include visual tricks, storytelling, and interactivity. The magic performed will try to astonish and leave you guessing at times during the show. Shows can include large-scale stage illusions and heavy-duty technical wizardry, or can contain highly skilled craft magic with the performer very close to the audience. Shows can range from intimate to theatrical, depending on venue size and the type of magician. Shows can be purely illusionistic or include mind-reading-type interactions.