I think that is a false dichotomy of this side or that side of the line. You need to be your character and run with that. Perhaps your character is a pumped up version of you, or perhaps altogether different (thinking Dan Sylvester's character Sylvester the Jester). Some of the greatest magical entertainers are so so funny. and their patter makes the simple tricks so good. Other times the silence can enhance the atmosphere the same way (thinking Copperfield's Rope magic).
And with regards to trick vs miracle, both are good and have a place with various performers.
This past week I was helping in northern Canada at a kids camp. I had the chance to perform Leaf by Paul Harris (AoA3). A camper came up to me and said can you do a trick with this? and held up the perfect leaf. Brilliant.
"You had to have used glue!" Said one of the staff. I said check it in a week. If it withers and dies I used glue. If it is still growing then..." - Brilliant.
Compare that to paper balls over the head (Or Copperfield's Version). Obviously one is a bit more magical in the scope of impossibility, however both have a place in the same show. That is however assuming your goal is to entertain. If your goal is to be a witch doctor for the local village, then you better stick to the Leaf trick. But I (as I'm sure you do too) want to entertain and try to create moments that people will remember forever. A great performance will do that, regardless of the trick or style.
Good topic.