Real-Life Magic Mike! How two former strippers are revolutionising Sydney’s nightlife

Sydney’s nightlife is about to be turned on its head, thanks to two former male entertainers who are bringing the ultimate party experience to the Harbour City.

Meet Charlie Welham and his best mate Marcus, the masterminds behind Magic Deck – an all-inclusive, high-energy cruise that promises wild entertainment, luxury, and non-stop fun.

With their years of experience as male entertainers, the duo have now swapped the stage for the boardroom, building a business that redefines how women enjoy a night out.

And if early reactions are anything to go by, they’re onto something big.

Charlie and Marcus are no strangers to entertaining a crowd, having spent years working as topless waiters and dancers in the industry.

But, after seeing a gap in Sydney’s nightlife scene, they decided to shake things up by launching their own immersive, VIP-style party experience aboard a luxury cruise.

Marcus explained: ‘We saw what was missing. Women weren’t just looking for a night out, they were craving excitement, energy, and something they’d never forget. That’s what we wanted to create with Magic Deck.’

He added, ‘The whole industry is missing something. Women want to feel excitement, feel sexy, and enjoy themselves in a way that feels safe and empowering. That’s exactly what we offer.’

Charlie’s journey into the industry was just as unexpected.

‘I was 22, and during my peak single years, a guy literally came up to me in the park and said, “You look good; ever thought about male entertainment?” 

‘I had no clue what it was, but I gave it a shot. That led to working private events, bachelorette parties, and eventually, the idea for Magic Deck.’

Forget dingy nightclubs and early lockouts. Magic Deck brings a European-style party scene to the water.

Guests board a luxury vessel for a three-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour, where they’re treated to jaw-dropping performances, cheeky games, and a DJ spinning the hottest R&B tracks.

Charlie said: ‘Sydney’s nightlife is terrible compared to places like the UK, Spain, and Greece. Clubs shut early, you drink too much and get kicked out, there’s no real excitement. We’re changing that. Magic Deck is where the real party is now.’

Marcus added, ‘People weren’t partying for years during lockdowns, and now they need something different. We’re giving them a reason to go out again.’

Since launching, every single event has been a sellout, with women travelling from as far as Newcastle and Melbourne just to experience the show.

The experience isn’t just about watching a show – it’s a full-scale party production complete with unlimited drinks, a gourmet buffet, four professional male entertainers, topless waiters, and an atmosphere unlike anything Sydney has seen before.

And it’s not just the performances that have guests coming back for more.

Marcus said: ‘We involve the crowd – lap dance games, the orgasm game, all sorts of surprises. We don’t just want people sitting in their seats, we make sure they’re part of the show.’

Charlie added, ‘Girls love a man in uniform, especially a cop. When you step in wearing the uniform, it’s game over.’

While Charlie and Marcus may have put their stripping days behind them, they’re still very much part of the action – overseeing every detail, training their team, and ensuring the experience is sexy yet sophisticated.

Marcus explained: ‘You always have to be mysterious with women. It’s about charm, not just looks. You can’t just show up and expect them to be impressed – you have to create an experience.’

Charlie agreed, ‘Confidence is everything. I wasn’t always confident, but when you start working on yourself, you see a change. It’s not just about looks, it’s about how you carry yourself.’

And for those wondering, there are rules in place to make sure everything stays respectful and fun.

‘We make it clear, no kissing the bride, no overstepping boundaries. Women come here to feel empowered and have a great time, and we ensure that’s exactly what happens,’ Charlie said.

Marcus added, ‘You can’t grab the magic d***! You have to respect the performers, too.’

Charlie and Marcus aren’t just business partners, they’re best mates who met while working in the industry.

Over the years, their bond has taken them across the world, from Dubai to the Philippines, and now to Sydney’s hottest new entertainment venture.

Charlie said: ‘Marcus and I are like brothers. We work off each other’s energy. When we’re out, it’s like a movie every night.’

Marcus added: ‘Sydney’s main attraction is its harbour. That’s what we’re tapping into. We’re giving people a night they’ll never forget, with the best views in the city.’

With sold-out events and rave reviews pouring in, Magic Deck is just getting started. 

The team has big plans to expand their brand, introducing new themes, guest performers, and even private event bookings.

Charlie said: ‘We’re building something much bigger than just a show. We want Magic Deck to be THE go-to event for any girl’s night out. 

‘We’ve got an entire roster of professional entertainers, and we’re offering private bookings for everything from hens parties to luxury events.’

For those thinking about entering the industry, both men say confidence is key.

Charlie advised: ‘If you’re thinking about it, don’t just do it to get girls. The biggest benefit is your confidence. Standing shirtless in front of 300 people makes public speaking feel like nothing.’

Marcus added: ‘It’s rewarding. Seeing people have the best night of their life because of you. That’s why we do it.’

As Marcus puts it best: ‘Girls just want to have fun. And we’re here to make sure they do.’

Tickets for the April 5 event are on sale now.