< PortFringe 2025

Review: 0z: A Family-Friendly Parody Magic Show

A man in black vest and top hat, looking at the viewer with his hand extended toward same, standing in front of a yellow brick road.
0z: A Family-Friendly Parody Magic Show – Jordan Rooks

(To learn more about this show, please click here)

Performance 6/21/25 – Portland Stage TFK

Jordan’s magic show will genuinely blow you away! It’s billed as family entertainment, but don’t be fooled—this show is just as impressive (and mind-bending) for adults.

There were multiple moments where I caught myself trying to make sense of how he did what he did! If you’re lucky, you’ll even be pulled on stage to participate in the magic close up!

Jordan has a natural stage presence and keeps the energy high without ever feeling over the top.  If you enjoy close hand magic in an intimate setting, you and your young ones will love this show.

If you’re looking for something that’s smart, funny, and full of “how did he DO that?!” moments, this is it.

Review Submitted on 6/21/25 by Lindsey Jade, PF25 Independent Review Team

Performance 6/22/25 – Portland Stage TFK

This show starts the moment you enter the theater – Jordan is incredibly endearing and engaging from the bat! He truly knows how to fully engage an audience and his stage presence is one-of-a-kind.

Beyond that, this show is actually magical (pun very much intended). From moment to moment, we never knew what was coming next, and each new feat had the whole audience on their toes. Jordan had us all in from the start, and his performance was truly mind-blowing.

Whether you are a magic show aficionado or a newbie to the world of magicians, this show is sure to wow. Plus, you may even get the chance to join Jordan on stage and experience the magic first-hand!

Review Submitted on 6/23/25 by Lauren Stockless, PF25 Independent Review Team


Jordan opens his show with the question “Can you imagine?” Gentle Reader, there is only one answer: YES I CAN.

I am not just writing this because I was part of the very first trick, which instantly made me a magician too. I am also not just writing this because I earned a set of glittery candles that 1-I’m allowed to keep, and 2-confirms I’m magic now. I am writing this because I work in children’s theatre, so I think that makes me an expert in imagination.

Jordan’s show is charming, dazzling, and -my favorite- playful. Audience participation can be anxiety-inducing and Jordan sets his audience up to succeed. Every twist elicits wonder. Using the framework of Oz enhances the sense of whimsy and provides an accessible narrative for all ages to say yes.

Theatre is community engagement, and creating exciting work that speaks to all ages is the ultimate testament.

Whether you’re a kid, a kid-at-heart, or anywhere in between, do yourself a favor and take that hot air balloon ride to Oz.

Review Submitted on 6/24/25 by Allison McCall, PF25 Independent Review Team

Performance 6/24/25 – Coffee By Design

Jordan Rooks reminds me of the guy in school who was kind, funny, accepting, and asked the class slut to the prom because he knew no one else would. So what, he’d say, it’s all an illusion anyway and by the way, here’s a trick to distract you from it all. Go have fun, laugh with everyone, and try to figure out how it’s done. I’m a sucker for anything Oz related, too.

Review Submitted on 6/25/25 by Linda, PF25 Independent Review Team

< PortFringe 2025

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