Displaying items by tag: magic

Demand for Dennis Watkins' The Magic Parlour continues into 2026 following a strong holiday season of sold-out performances and group and event bookings. Now, "Chicago's premiere resident magician" (Chicago Tribune) releases a brand new block of tickets to see audiences into the spring and summer months. Watkins also welcomes Derek Hughes—a "thoroughly entertaining" (New York Times), "suberb magician with a gift for the unexpected and off beat" (Minneapolis Star Tribune) to perform as a guest artist on selected dates this and next month. Now in its third year, the custom magic theater in the heart of the Loop has welcomed more than 28,000 Chicagoans to 700+ performances and bespoke private events—including hosting some of the nation's greatest magicians as guest artists-in-residence and special performances. In addition, Watkins brings back the popular 3-Card Monte, a special format in which three magicians visit each audience member's table to perform close-up magic. Offered only on Sunday evenings at 5pm, 3-Card Monte magicians include Watkins, Hughes, Luis Carreon, Mike O'Donnell, Ryan Plunkett and James Sanden.

"As The Magic Parlour and its audience continue to grow, I've been hunting for new ways to share world-class magic with Chicago. As we continue, I'll keep running my show, The Magic Parlour, six shows per week and 300 shows per year. I'm thrilled to bring in two or three guest artists each year for limited-engagement runs. On the heels of Siegfried Tieber's sold-out engagement last month, this month we welcome the incomparable Derek Hughes for three short weeks," said Dennis Watkins. "And, I've launched 3-Card Monte on Sunday evenings. This experience showcases my carefully curated list of Chicago magicians and out-of-town guests performing formal close-up magic at the table with the audience. Three performers run at three tables concurrently, then rotate for 30-minute sets—creating a whirlwind of magic as up-close and personal as it gets!"

The Magic Parlour, now on sale through August 31, 2026, takes place Thursday through Sunday. Tickets range from $93 - $136; tickets for Guest Artist Derek Hughes' performances range from $76 - $106. All tickets include a complimentary beverage. Hughes appears Feb. 26-27 (7:30pm); Feb. 28 (4:30 + 7:30pm); March 1 (2pm); March 5-6 (7:30pm); March 7 (4:30 + 7:30pm); March 8 (2pm); March 12-13 (7:30pm); March 14 (4:30 + 7:30pm); and March 15 (2pm); tickets for 3-Card Monte are $73. To purchase tickets, call the Goodman Theatre Box Office at 312.443.3800 (12 Noon – 5pm) or visit TheMagicParlourChicago.com. Note: Watkins will invite a TBA guest magician to appear at select July performances; check website for dates, full announcement coming soon. The Magic Parlour is recommended for audiences ages 12+; while there is no inappropriate content, this elegant experience is designed for adults Media members: for complimentary press passes, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Hailed as a "star attraction dazzling audiences in an elegant underground Loop parlor" (WBEZ), The Magic Parlour is "90 minutes of mind-boggling fun that would make Houdini proud, offer(ing) warmth, intimacy and a great close-up view of the magic being performed right before your eyes" (WGN Radio). In a first-of-its-kind creative collaboration, Watkins teamed up with Goodman Theatre and Petterino's restaurant to establish a permanent home for Chicago's longest-running magic show—an intimate evening of classic magic and mind-reading previously hosted for more than a decade at the Palmer House (opened on New Year's Eve, 2011). The audience participates in much of the performance as Watkins wows the room with classic sleight of hand, unbelievable mind-reading and magical wisdom passed down from his grandfather.

The space at 50 W. Randolph, situated adjacent to the Goodman in Petterino's transformed lower-level area, continues Watkins' famed tradition of the VIP experience in The Encore Room, an upgraded ticket option for guests seeking an exclusive 25-minute interaction following the performance. Immediately following the performance, up to 24 guests are escorted to a private space where Watkins performs up-close magic.

A co-founder of The House Theatre of Chicago, Dennis Watkins has collaborated as an actor, writer, director and/or designer on 30+ world-premiere plays with companies including Lookingglass, Steppenwolf and Goodman Theatre. After studying theater at Meadows School of the Arts and the British American Drama Academy in London, he launched The House Theatre with Artistic Director Nathan Allen and cohorts from school on Halloween of 2001. His appearance in the title role of Death and Harry Houdini—including performing Houdini's infamous Water Torture Cell escape in every show—earned him a Joseph Jefferson Award.

ABOUT THE PARTNERS

Petterino's has been a beloved downtown icon in the Chicago community for 20+ years, continuing to offer the same spirit and tradition that diners know and love. Enjoy timeless flavors, authentic Italian fare, comfortable interiors and warm hospitality. Our passion for creating memorable dining experiences aligns perfectly with the mystique of magic. The synergy between the culinary artistry of our chefs and the magical prowess of Dennis Watkins promises an evening of unparalleled wonder and flavor. We've joined forces with the Goodman and this talented magician to bring you a dining experience like no other. Blend the flavors of Italy with the wonder of magic, by dining at Petterino's before or after the show. You may also consider booking a private or corporate event in conjunction with a show. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, a romantic evening, or simply seeking an escape from the ordinary, our magical collaboration guarantees an enchanting escape into a world where delectable cuisine dances with spellbinding illusions.

Since 1925, The Goodman has been more than a stage. A theatrical home for artists and a gathering space for community, it's where stories come to life—bold in artistry and rich in history, deeply rooted in the city it serves.

Led by Walter Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director John Collins, The Goodman sparks conversation, connection and change through new plays, reimagined classics and large-scale musicals. With distinctions including nearly 200 world or American premieres, two Pulitzer Prizes, 22 Tony Awards and nearly 200 Joseph Jefferson Awards, The Goodman is proud to be the first theater to produce all 10 plays of August Wilson's "American Century Cycle." In addition, the theater frequently serves as a production partner—with national and international companies to Chicago's Off-Loop theaters—to help amplify theatrical voices.

But The Goodman believes a more empathetic, more connected Chicago is created one story at a time, and counts as its greatest legacy the community it's built. Generation-spanning productions and programs offer theater for a lifetime; from Theater for the Very Young (plays designed for ages 0-5) to the long-running annual A Christmas Carol, which has introduced new generations to theater over five decades, The Goodman is committed to being an asset for all of Chicago. Education and Engagement programs led by Clifford Director of Education and Engagement Jared Bellot and housed in the Alice Rapoport Center use the tools of theater to spark imagination, reflection and belonging. Each year, these programs reach thousands of people (85% from underserved communities) as well as educators, artists and lifelong learners across the city.

The Goodman stands on the unceded homelands of the Council of the Three Fires—the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations—and acknowledges the many other Nations for whom this land now called Chicago has long been home, including the Myaamia, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sac and Fox, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Wea, Kickapoo, and Mascouten. The Goodman is proud to partner with the Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum (Gichigamiin-Museum.org) and the Center for Native Futures (CenterForNativeFutures.org)—organizations devoted to honoring Indigenous stories, preserving cultural memory, and deepening public understanding.

The Goodman was founded by William O. Goodman and his family to honor the memory of Kenneth Sawyer Goodman—a visionary playwright whose bold ideas helped shape Chicago's early cultural renaissance. That spirit of creativity and generosity endures today. In 2000, through the commitment of Mr. Goodman's descendants—Albert Ivar Goodman and his late mother, Edith-Marie Appleton—The Goodman opened the doors to its current home in the heart of the Loop.

At this time of year, when Christmas lights begin to twinkle and colors of green and red illuminate throughout the city, I am nostalgically drawn to the ballet. To me, there is nothing so quintessentially magical as The Nutcracker ballet at Christmas time. I can hum, and chair compose the entirety of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece. I can mark every step to every number of the two-act ballet (shout out to Inland Pacific Ballet). I can picture my grandmother sewing the principal dancers into their tutus, and my mother managing ticket sales and donning the mother-ginger costume. For me, the holiday and the ballet are indivisibly interconnected. And now that I’ve lived in Chicagoland for longer than my childhood in Southern California, there is something nostalgically familiar and magical about Christopher Wheeldon's kaleidoscopic reimagining of The Nutcracker, now playing at The Lyric Opera House.

On a magical Christmas Eve, after awakening to an epic battle between Toy Soldiers and the Rat King, a flurry of snowflakes sweeps Marie away on a whirlwind journey to the dreamlike fairgrounds of the World's Columbian Exposition. Set to Tchaikovsky's classic score, experience sprawling attractions representing countries from around the globe: the dazzling Golden Statue, the mystique of an Arabian enchantress, vibrant Venetian masked dancers, Chinese dragons, and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. This holiday season, enter the spellbinding world where history and dreams intertwine.

The Nutcracker Amanda Assucena and Hyuma Kiyosawa in Joffrey Ballet's The Nutcracker at Lyric Opera House.

Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker is set against the majesty of the 1893 World’s Fair of Chicago. Though remnants of the fair can still be found in buildings like The Museum of Science and Industry, the true grandeur and spectacle is lost to photographs, sketches, and our imaginations. The magic and marvel of the fair’s White City is rumored to be the inspiration for the Emerald City in his best-selling children’s book of 1900, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. While there is no solid evidence to support this claim, it would make sense that the fair, where Cracker Jacks, the Ferris wheel, and electricity itself were debuted and displayed, could inspire a magical city of Oz. It’s that same magic that Wheeldon captures in the Joffrey’s production of The Nutcracker. The uniquely Chicago-centric production of the ballet features the familiar storyline of Marie and her family, though it focuses on the love story between The Great Impresario of the Fair, performed by Stefan Gonçalvez, and Marie’s mother, the sculptress for the Fair and The Queen of the Fair, performed by Gayeon Jung. It shows the humble working-class families that built the city itself in the first act, juxtaposed against the vibrant and colorful world of the White City in the second act. The humility and simplicity of one act contrasted with the majesty of the second, coupled with journeys across Lake Michigan, make this production equally familiar and relatable. To date, it’s still one of my favorite productions of the ballet, quintessentially Chicago and absolutely magical.

What I wouldn’t give to be a snowflake in the core, a worker at the fair dancing beneath the first Ferris Wheel, or simply a watcher from the wings of this beautiful ballet. At this point, I have seen and reviewed the play more years than I performed in the ballet, and I still get goosebumps when the tree rises, and the snow falls. Whether you are seeing it for the hundredth time, the tenth time, or the first, every Chicagoan should experience the Nutcracker. Experience the magic for yourself. The Nutcracker is playing now through December 28^th at The Lyric Opera House (20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago). Do not overpay for Joffrey tickets! Beware of ticket resellers offering overpriced or invalid tickets. The Joffrey is the only official seller with the best prices, available at www.joffrey.org.

David Williamson, regarded as one of the top magicians in the world today, makes his Rhapsody Theater debut with Ridiculous! Known for his tours with Circus 1903 and The Illusionists on Broadway, Williamson’s Ridiculous! is a brand new solo full-length magic production created for The Rhapsody Theater. Mixing mind-bending illusions, side-splitting comedy, and a dash of anarchy, the show is an uproarious evening of controlled chaos ruminating on the meaning of the word ridiculous. Ridiculous! is performed at The Rhapsody Theater, 1328 W. Morse Ave. in Rogers Park, May 16 - June 30.

“Ridiculous! transcends the boundaries of a mere theatrical performance; it serves as a one-man rebellion against the monotony of a life too often bogged down by seriousness. This show is not just an escape, but a full-on revolt against the mundane, offering a sanctuary of laughter, wonder, and awe. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable experience!” said Ricardo Rosenkranz, MD, Rhapsody Theater LLC managing partner and resident performer as the Physician Magician.

More about David Williamson

A born showman and accomplished sleight-of-hand artist, David Williamson dazzles audiences with a blend of heart-stopping magic and sidesplitting hilarity. He has been featured on ABC’s “Champions of Magic,” where he appeared with Princess Stephanie as he performed his miracles at various locations in and around Monaco. Williamson has also co-starred in several top-rated prime-time network specials, including CBS’ “Magicians’ Favorite Magicians,” NBC’s “Houdini: Unlocking His Mysteries” and NBC’s “World’s Greatest Magic III.” He was seen recently on The CW’s “Masters of Illusion” TV series as well as “America’s Got Talent.” Williamson has developed TV shows for Walt Disney Productions and ABC, as well as consulting on TV specials for illusionists David Copperfield and David Blaine. His bestselling magic book, Williamson’s Wonders, has been translated into three languages.

Williamson is also featured as the Ringmaster in the exciting show “Circus 1903” currently touring the world and returning to the UK for a holiday tour and is currently starring with fellow magicians in “The Illusionists” at the acclaimed Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, following its Broadway run. He is also a frequent favorite Guest Entertainer on Disney Cruise Lines. Recently, Williamson was honored with the Performance Fellowship by the Academy of Magical Arts and Sciences at the Magic Castle in Hollywood. In 2017, Williamson was named The Magic Castle’s Magician of the Year. He was also recently awarded Honorary Lifetime Membership by the UK’s Magic Circle, the world’s premier magical society.

Performance schedule & tickets

Ridiculous! with David Williamson will be performed at The Rhapsody Theater May 16 to June 30: Thursdays at 7:30pm; Fridays at 7:30 PM; and Saturdays at 2:00 PM, and 7:30 PM.  There are no performances on May 31 or June 1, instead there are special Sunday matinees on June 2 and June 30 at 2:00 PM. The run time is approximately 90 minutes with one intermission. Tickets starting at $20.00, are now on sale, online at https://rhapsodytheater.thundertix.com/events/218941 or at The Rhapsody Theater box office.

About The Rhapsody Theater

Built in 1912 as the Morse Theater, this destination at 1328 W. Morse Avenue has long-been a source of arts and entertainment (formerly operating as the Co-Ed Theater and the Mayne Stage). Since its reopening in 2022 by Ricardo Rosenkranz, MD, Chicago’s own Physician Magician, The Rhapsody Theater has brought a Vegas-style entertainment experience to Rogers Park. This includes a newly developed, full-service restaurant and three bars throughout providing a welcoming spot for both patrons and community members to enjoy year-round. The multi-faceted theater is perfectly primed for its world-class performances. With state-of-the-art acoustics and versatile seating arrangements, the space allows for enhanced, intimate, and large format experiences. In addition to magic arts talent, The Rhapsody Theater also presents cabaret and other live music concert programming.

The Rhapsody Theater is conveniently located steps away from the Morse Red line ‘El’ station in Rogers Park. Complimentary parking is available in an adjacent lot (subject to availability) in addition to plentiful nearby street parking.

In advance of Ridiculous!, the Mexico City-born Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz, MD, Chicago’s own Physician Magician, celebrates the festive Cinco de Mayo holiday weekend by performing a feat never before seen on Chicago stages: performing back-to-back magic shows in two different languages, Spanish and English, the weekend of May 4 & 5, 2024.  For more information about The Rhapsody Theater or to purchase tickets, please visit https://rhapsodytheater.com/

If you’re a magic enthusiast, Joshua Jay’s captivating new show, Look Closer, is currently enchanting audiences at the Rhapsody Theater. But even if you’re not a seasoned magic fan, this show promises to leave you spellbound. Joshua Jay, the Society of Magicians’ 2020 Magician of the Year, has recently concluded a successful New York City run that commenced at the illustrious Carnegie Hall.

Look Closer with Joshua Jay weaves together engaging storytelling, comedy, and, of course, astonishing magic. From parlor tricks to sleight of hand, each illusion surpasses the last in sheer amazement. In this latest production, Jay defies convention by turning the concept of misdirection on its head. Unlike most magic shows where the magician skillfully diverts attention, Look Closer invites the audience to scrutinize every detail. As you focus intently, the very shapes of the tricks seem to metamorphose. It’s a mesmerizing experience that challenges the norm.

The Rhapsody Theater, renowned for hosting popular magic performances since 2020, provides the perfect backdrop for this magical journey. And that’s not all—after his regular shows on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturday matinees, Joshua Jay treats VIP ticket holders to an intimate close-up magic show for up to 16 people. If you’re not a VIP, don’t worry—you can enhance your experience by adding on this exclusive event for just $20, complete with a complimentary drink ticket.

“This show goes against everything magicians have touted for centuries,” says Jay. “Instead of misdirecting your attention, I encourage you to look closer. I want you to see my favorite thing about magic, the beautiful details, that are only noticed when viewed through the layers of deception, the mysteries embedded within the mysteries. Each piece has been carefully crafted so that the more you think about it, the more the shape of the trick changes.” Prepare to be amazed!

Filled with mind-boggling tricks and illusions, Jay, who has been featured on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and The Late Show with James Corden, also uses his humor to perfection, whether scripted or off the cuff, especially during audience participation. Jay keeps busy outside of performing live. He has also authored several books on magic and has created illusions for big hit shows such as Boardwalk Empire and Game of Thrones. But, as he explained in his show, many of these accomplishments may never have happened. Jay’s career in magic was almost cut short when an accident shattered his left wrist just as he was preparing to attempt to beat the Guinness World Record for Most Selected Cards Found from a Shuffled Deck in One Minute. The injury was so bad he was told he might have limited use of that hand – and as a magician one can only imagine the devastation of receiving such news. But he didn’t succumb to defeat. Instead, Jay worked passionately through physical therapy and regained his dexterity back withing three years. However, the feeling in his pinky and ring finger had not returned, which, he further expounded, makes sleight of hand magic extremely difficult to master. But, he persevered and the feeling eventually did come back and fortunately for Jay, and fans of magic, he returned to top form and not only continued his path in becoming one of the best magicians in the scene, but he eventually did become the Guinness World Record holder for Most Selected Cards Found from a Shuffled Deck in One Minute.      

Look Closer is a must see that will undoubtedly baffle and entertain crowds of all ages.  Jay’s new show not only gets a positive reaction from theatergoers – and yours truly, but the show also gets praise from fellow magician, Ricardo Rosenkranz, MD, a resident performer at Rhapsody. Rosencranz says about Jay, “Josh’s original run of Look Closer, which Rhapsody Theater produced last year, was a unique and fresh take on what a magic show can be. We are thrilled to have Josh back for an updated version of this show that subverts audience expectations while leaving them in utter disbelief. With our intimate performance space, and state of the art technology, the Rhapsody Theater is the perfect venue for audiences to Look Closer at Josh’s mind-bending tricks.”

Plan to be wowed as Jay takes you on a journey beyond the ordinary.

Look Closer with Joshua Jay will grace The Rhapsody Theater stage from April 4 to April 28. Showtimes are as follows:

• Thursdays: 7:30 PM
• Fridays: 7:30 PM
• Saturdays: 2:00 PM, 7:30 PM, and 9:30 PM

The entire experience lasts approximately 75 minutes, with no intermission. Don't miss this captivating performance!

Highly recommended.

Going through the doors of the Rhapsody Theater on Morse Avenue is like stepping through a time portal. The 1919 theater was gorgeously renovated last year from a wedding and events venue back to the stunning theatre it was meant to be. There is a large dark mahogany bar serving specialty drinks appropriately named for the show you are about to witness. Drinks with names like Digital Elixir, Amazed & Confused, and Sleight of Spice are a tip-off to the feats of magic you are about to witness. You are guided through a door to a theatre with cabaret style seating.  There are mahogany tables and chairs situated around a large stage.

This magic show is like nothing you’ve ever seen while being very familiar. It is aptly named “Amaze”, but you will be so much more than amazed. “Amaze” is the brainchild of magician Jamie Allan. With a name like Jamie Allan, you just know he’s English, born in 1977 in the United Kingdom. The performance showcased the talents of a modern magician who skillfully married the charm of classic magic with the wonders of the digital age. During the show we learn Jamie’s childhood hero is the late Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple. This is not your standard magic show.

From the moment the lights come up, the audience is transported into a realm where the old and the new coexist in perfect harmony. The magician began with classic card tricks captivating the audience with expert sleight of hand that harkened back to the golden era of magic. The execution of these timeless tricks was flawless, demonstrating the magician's mastery of the fundamentals.

What set this show apart, however, was the seamless integration of modern technology. Throughout the performance, the stage came alive with dazzling visual effects. The combination of traditional magic and state-of-the-art technology created an immersive experience that left the audience in awe.

One standout moment involved magician Allan asking everyone in the audience to take out their cell phones. I am sworn to secrecy, but this innovative use of technology not only added a layer of astonishment but also engaged the audience in a way that traditional magic alone might not achieve.

The lighting and music complemented the magic show, creating an atmosphere that enhanced the overall sense of wonder. The synchronized play between the magician's movements and the technological elements showcased a meticulous attention to detail in both performance and production.

Jamie’s charismatic stage presence and engaging storytelling further enriched the experience. The show was not just a series of tricks but a narrative journey through his childhood.

"AMAZE" succeeded in delivering a magical experience that appealed to both traditionalists and tech enthusiasts. It showcased the enduring charm of classic magic while demonstrating the limitless possibilities that technology brings to the art form. This captivating blend of tradition and innovation left the audience with a sense of wonder that lingered long after.

Top of Form

When: Through Jan 7, 2024

Where: Rhapsody Theater 1328 W. Morse Avenue

Running time: 2 hours –1 15 intermission

Tickets: $35-$100 at 888-495-9001 and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Touring illusion show of five ‘Champions of Magic’ is playing at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Chicago, and it is a spectacle to behold. A well-rounded performance, it includes a duo act of British grand illusionists Richard Young and Sam Strange, British mentalist Alex McAleer, American close up magician Kayla Drescher, and Mexican-born escape artist Fernando Velasco. 

Opening the first act is Alex McAleer, who is as charming as he is capable of effortlessly guess your deepest secrets (or at least the name of your childhood friend). Mindreading is one of the most fascinating kinds of magic, as it doesn’t require any props and relies solely on manipulation techniques such as psychics and hypnotists use. I haven’t a clue how he does it, but still spend some time watching him very closely, which, of course, proves a waste of time, because McAleer is a very gifted mentalist and a remarkable showman. 

Kayla Drescher is a cheerful close-up magic performer, who has won multiple awards, including the Society of American Magician’s Presidential Citation and being voted “Magician of the Year”. Her cards act is very intimate, perhaps too intimate for such a large Theater. Though well executed, the cameraman’s presence just a few feet away (in order to project her act on the big screen for the audience to see) feels just a bit distracting. Drescher really shines when engaging the audience members, volunteering someone up on stage with an unassuming charm and then wowing the audience with her brand of [card] magic.

The most spectacular act belongs to Young and Strange. The comedic duo has gotten many tricks up their sleeves: some new, some old. Watching their performance took me back to my childhood, to when circus came to town and everyone went to see a famous illusionist. I was delighted to watch some of my old favorites, like, an assistant being cut in half and then put back together again. I mean, common, it’s a classic and should never go away! But Young and Strange dazzle with many of their original acts as well; they’re highly entertaining performers. 

‘Champions of Magic’ would not be complete without an impressive young escape artist Fernando Velasco’s act; at just 21 years old he is already the world’s youngest to perform magic’s most dangerous illusion, the Houdini Water Torture Cell. Though it’s slightly less spectacular due to the fact that the glass water chamber had become covered with fabric slightly too long, it’s nevertheless very well done. Velasco is a fearless performer, and undoubtedly has a bright future.

Overall, ‘Champions of Magic’ is a wonderful magic show featuring all of the stage magic’s various fields – recommended!

Through December 29th at Harris Theater for Music and Dance.

January 25th is now Palmer House, A Hilton Hotel and Magic Parlour Day in Chicago as so declared by Mayor Rahm Emanuel in a statement last week. The day is named so for good reason. An idea that took shape in 2011 has now become one of Chicago’s great attractions as Magician Dennis Watkins has been hosting sold out events ever since. In fact, last Friday marked Watkins 1,000th show (most being sold out) – an astounding achievement for any entertainer in Chicago.

Chicago has a rich history in Magic. From early 20th century magician/illusionist Harry Blackstone Sr. (a.k.a. The Great Blackstone), to Harlan Tarbell, who created a magic correspondence course in 1928, Chicago was once home for many magic clubs. We had Jack Gwynne in the 1950's and, of course, Marshall Brodien, who started out as a carnival barker for a circus freak show also made an impression. Before gaining mass popularity as Wizzo Wizard on The Bozo show, Brodien was an accomplished hypnotist. He also created every beginner’s favorite teaching tool in the 1970’s – T.V. Magic Cards along with several magic kits (yes, I had one). Even while retired, Brodien assisted in creating illusions for the likes of David Copperfield and Lance Burton. Yes, Magic was certainly a popular pastime in our fair city throughout the early-mid 1900’s and was kept alive thanks to magician stars like Brodien through the early 1980’s.

Then, unless you were visiting Las Vegas, magic got quiet for awhile.

New magic personalities Criss Angel and David Blaine helped in bringing magic back on a nationwide level in the early 2000’s, but, outside of an occasion magic show, magic didn’t have much of a presence in Chicago. There just weren’t many places to catch a quality magic act. But that changed just after 2010 thanks to a benefit appearance that House Theatre of Chicago that featured ensemble member Dennis Watkins. Watkins, now considered by many to be the best magician in Chicago – and some will even argue he’s the best in the country, wowed his audience with close up magic that evening. The House Theatre then produced a show called ‘The Magic Parlour’ on a limited basis, which featured 3rd generation magician Dennis Watkins. The show was a smash, selling out performance after performance after it became a weekly event. But it was after a sold-out New Year’s Eve performance at The Palmer House Hilton Hotel that a deal was struck that would put Chicago back on the magic map. Since, Watkins has performed ‘The Magic Parlour’ regularly at the classic Chicago hotel to which it has now become a staple in Chicago entertainment – a sought after attraction that people from all over the world attend.

Watkins magic is special. During his show, he talks of picking up the craft as a seven-year-old boy from his grandfather, an accomplished magician who also owned a local magic shop. Specializing in close-up magic, Watkins prefers to amaze his audience with in-your-face sleight of hand rather than with grand illusions. This creates a much more intimate experience - and one that demands much more skill from the magician. Watkins performs his own unique tricks that only those who have attended ‘The Magic Parlour’ could ever claim to have seen, and he also puts his own spin on classic tricks that have wowed through the ages. He is a magician but is also a skilled entertainer. Watkin’s banter with each intimate audience flows nicely and includes much humor. His ability to make every attendee feel comfortable and included is a great part of the fun. But make no mistake about it – it is his ability to perform magic at such a high level that separates him from the pack.

It is with much confidence that I can predict ‘The Magic Parlour’ will have another celebration in seven or so years as they hit another milestone with their 2,000th show. Dennis Watkins is as good as it gets, and the historic Palmer House Hilton creates the perfect ambience for such a magic act.

Dennis Watkins is one of the greats of our time.

Cheers! Here’s to another 1,000 shows!

Who doesn’t like magic? I love to be fooled just as much as the person next to me. Make me believe in supernatural powers and I’ll admire everything that’s dished out, even if some of it is a little loose and perhaps lacks a certain showmanship. Well, magician Brett Schneider accomplishes just that: he’ll blow your mind and make you believe in real magic; he’ll guess your innermost thoughts (or is it outermost thoughts, since he asks you to have them on the forefront of your mind)? I don’t know how that works, I was very impressed with his mentalist techniques. The only thing is: I can’t say that I was visually bedazzled, but then again, I need a real spectacle. Brett’s style is very down to earth, unassumingly casual, there’s really no eye candy of any kind, just a simple stage surrounded by the audience, which he boldly promises to unite in the name of magic. Everyone gets involved before the show even starts: you’ll be handed small pieces of paper and pencils and asked to write stuff down and then place them in a glass bowl. The audience is an active participant in most tricks, and everyone is delighted to oblige. It’s a great show in its own right.

Brett Schneider has been performing magic professionally for over 20 years. His work has received numerous awards; he’s also an actor who has worked with Steppenwolf, The Goodman, Lookingglass, Roundabout Theatre, Actors Theatre Louisville, and many others around the country.

A one-man show, Communion: An Evening of Magic is written and performed by Brett Schneider and directed by Elana Boulos. It plays September 13-22, 2018 at The Den Theatre’s Upstairs Main Stage; there’re only 6 performances currently scheduled. Tickets are available at thedentheatre.com. Recommended for ages 13 and up.

Seated in the venue before the show, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. With a title like, The Rosenkranz Mysteries: Physician Magician, my first thought was of a murder mystery. The set, designed to mimic a well-appointed study or office, didn’t give any real clues. Enter our host for the evening, Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz.

Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz is not just a character. He really is a REAL DOCTOR. He is a neonatologist and Assistant Professor in Clinical Pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He has been practicing both medicine and magic for many years.

In the opening scene, The Puzzle of Life, the well-respected professor sets the stage for what the next 90 minutes will reveal. The Rosenkranz Mysteries are the doctor’s lessons and insights into life shared, with the audience through 12 vignettes using charming storytelling and theatrical magic.

Similar to Stevie Wonders’ weaving song titles like Confusion, Ordinary Pain and Joy Inside My Tears into the album “Songs from the Key of Life”, Dr. Rosenkranz weaves his story with scenes like The Magical Childhood, Perfect Empathy, and finally Ricardo’s Thread (a tribute to his mentor - highly acclaimed magician Eugene Burger).

Dr. Rosenkranz’s skill as a story teller is both calming and reassuring. There is a bit of a mystical vibe in the theatre when he is speaking. The intimate theatre setting, and the warm tone of his voice created a comfort level as if we were all sitting in the parlor of the doctor’s home listening to his sage advice and philosophies on life. He speaks of magic and medicine almost interchangeably, in a manner that I can only describe as Disney-esque. His demeanor could easily place him at Hogwarts. He quickly earned my trust.

The magical content of the performance was equally enjoyable and entertaining… and yes, mysterious. The illusions and magic were truly mind-boggling even though it was not grandiose or glitzy (no fireworks or clouds of smoke). From my front row seat, I was certain that I would “catch a slip up” to disprove the magic, but instead I was left pleasantly confounded and amazed. He is truly gifted as a magician. He definitely brings a personal element to the entire program, and frequently mentions his inspiration during both his dialogue and feats of magic. It’s easy to sense how important the weaving of magic and being a physician together is to him.

This is certainly a “feel good” experience in a way that stays with you. I still catch myself smiling as I’m writing this review 24 hours after the show. I highly recommend this show as it is both witty and intelligent.

While this show is family-friendly, the subtlety of the life lessons may go unappreciated by the pre-teen audience members.

The Rosenkranz Mysteries: Physician Magician is showing at The Royal George Theatre Cabaret, 1641 N Halsted Street in Chicago for a limited engagement.

When walking past the exterior of the unflattering storefront on Clark Street in Andersonville, a former laundromat, one wouldn’t give it a second glance. Perhaps a handful of classic magic posters littered around the entrance might cause pause for a brief second, but that’s about it. No marquee, no ostentatious logos, no windows to peer inside. Nothing but the words “The Magic Lounge” near its main door would suggest that maybe something is going on inside – something special.

Upon entering the laundromat – wait, it used to be a laundromat, yet a wall of washing machines are in use. All signs point to the place still being a laundromat - we see clothes freely spinning through the circular windows of each machine while an attendant holds up a pair of underwear and asks, “Are these yours? We’ve been trying to locate their owner.” But alas, suddenly a secret entrance opens and I can only compare the experience to the Wizard of Oz, when black and white becomes color.

Much like an old-timey speak easy, patrons are quickly transported from the unspectacular to the spectacular. Music is playing, the atmosphere is lively as people gather around a bar that centers around a magician performing close-up magic and challenging eager volunteers with bar bets for a free drink chip. This in itself is already something. Onlookers gaze down from a mezzanine above. We later learn these onlookers are club members – magicians only. Not long after an usher escorts us to a library, some of its contents authentic relics of a grand time when magicians like Harry Houdini, Harry Keller and Chin Ling amazed audience after audience. After a brief history lesson, the usher escorts a handful of people through another secret entrance. What we experience next is nothing short of astonishing, as we enter a vast theater laced in fine art deco finishes with high ceilings above the balcony, the floor accommodating multi-layered seating areas that surround a magnificent stage to host its magicians. No details are overlooked. Club employees are donned in clothing reminiscent of the 1920’s Jazz Era, the women in sparkling dress then men dapper with white shirts beneath vests or skinny ties and suit jackets. You can almost imagine Al Capone and friends walking in at any minute while instinctively looking for a hook to hang your fedora. The theater is appropriately named after Harry Blackstone, the famous magician who really put a stamp on “Chicago magic”, which we are reminded by the evening’s host is a real thing.

The Harry Blackstone Theater

The Magic Lounge is a time capsule. The multi-million-dollar facility is an homage to the once popular magic haunts that regularly entertained its Chicago patrons. Magic clubs that were once such a prevalent part of Chicago’s night-life since the early 1900’s, have slowly – and not so magically – disappeared.

“Chicago Magic Lounge brings back a style of magic unique to the Windy City, which once hosted over 15 bars, restaurants and lounges all dedicated to what would become known as ‘Chicago-Style Magic,’” said co-owner Joey Cranford.

It’s main stage (yes, there is another stage – the private back-room, 40-seat “654 Club” for those who don’t want the magic to end – literally) will host some of Chicago’s most talented and colorful magicians such as Luis Carreon, Dennis Watkins, Bill Weimer and Lee Benzaquin and also bring in top performers from around the world such as was the case on opening night with superstar mentalist/wizard of sorts Max Maven. the shows are as interactive as they are mind-bending. Yours truly was even called onstage to volunteer for the great Mr. Maven. The venue will also host live music fitting to its atmosphere.

While having a bite and/or pre-show drinks (try the “Sleight of Hand”) prior to the evening’s main show, magicians circle the seating area entertaining each table with close-up magic. The club’s unique air of mystery, suspense and nostalgia is something that cannot be found at any other establishment in Chicago. And why Andersonville as opposed to a downtown location? Simple. Magic Lounge owners wanted to bring the gift of magic back to Chicago, therefore opting for a neighborhood location over an area that caters more to tourists.

Magician Bill Weimer entertains in the Performance Bar

Whether just going to hang out at the bar, attending a show in the main theater, catching an act in the more intimate 654 Club – or all of the above – a distinctively rich experience awaits you.

Live entertainment will be performed seven days a week. Monday and Tuesday evenings will welcome musical performances on the mainstage, Wednesday evenings will host David Parr’s “Cabinet of Curiosities” and Thursdays through Saturdays will offer the mainstage magic shows. A family-friendly show will be offered on Sunday afternoons. Depending on the show and ticket package, theater admissions range anywhere from $10-$55, though you can always stop in for a cocktail at the performance bar.

The Magic Lounge is an exciting scene that exudes the perfect combination of class, fun and awe. If its February 22nd grand opening is any indication of things to come, it will undoubtedly become a staple in Chicago entertainment for years to come.

For more information including performance schedules, cocktail options and pricing, visit www.chicagomagiclounge.com. 5050 N. Clark Street. 

Be amazed.