What is the ruling on attending magic shows and performances by illusionists, applauding them, and admiring them? Do they truly commit an act of disbelief (kufr)? And what is the meaning of "one who believes in magic"?

Intentionally watching shows of magic and sorcery is not permissible, but merely watching them is not an act of disbelief (kufr). It is reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, that "Three shall not enter Paradise: a habitual drunkard, one who severs ties of kinship, and one who believes in magic." What is meant by "one who believes in magic" is he who believes in its effect intrinsically, or who believes the sorcerer in what he claims regarding knowledge of the unseen. For magic does have an effect, but it is an illusory effect, not an intrinsic one. As for believing the sorcerer and the soothsayer in what they claim regarding knowledge of the unseen, that is disbelief in what was revealed to Muhammad.