REVIEW: Peter Samelson’s Magic, Love, Mystery Now Playing at Chicago Magic Lounge Wednesdays Through March 27, 2024

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Chicago Magic Lounge Presents

Peter Samelson’s

Magic, Love, Mystery

Wednesdays beginning January 10, 2024

Production Photos Courtesy of Chicago Magic Lounge unless otherwise noted.

Chicago Magic Lounge Also Announces Full Slate of 

Winter Programming

Review

By Guest Critic, Dugan Kenaz-Mara 

Prepare yourself for a night of charm at Peter Samelson's Magic, Love, Mystery at The Magic Lounge. 

Dugan and Kit (photo by Kit)

In typical Magic Lounge fashion, the night begins with pre-show table performances as magicians bring close-up tricks directly to your table. Despite arriving after the table magic started we still managed to catch 2 different magicians who completely wowed us. I was especially excited to see some of our favorites who have taken the main stage at previous performances. 

 photo by Dugan Kenaz-Mara

Once Samelson took the stage the atmosphere completely transformed. With the help of slide projections, dim lights, and gentle jazz music, the audience was taken into a detective’s office straight out of a noir film. It was here that we got our role - the audience would be working together with the magician to solve a mystery throughout the course of the show.

Samelson does a great job of tying each of his tricks to the case we are collectively exploring. He sometimes introduces tangential ticks through voice-over narration and clever slides and uses the rest of the tricks to find clues, like names, dates, and locations relating to the case. While the narrative itself was difficult to follow it was still a useful tool, and what the magician lacked in storytelling ability he made up for with skill and experience as a magician.

Theatergoers who appreciate magic and have seen other magicians will recognize some of the tricks in this show but will be surprised at how he adds his own twist to them. Magic, Love, Mystery incorporates a good mix of old and new tricks, as well as variety within the tricks from card magic and restoration to mentalism and predictions. The show even includes props I’ve never seen in a magic show, like the prize inside a box of cracker jacks.

The show does include a lot of audience participation (which is to be expected at a parlor magic show). I appreciate that Samelson brings some of his acts out to individual tables to demonstrate a few stage tricks up close, and I think he does a wonderful job of including as many people as possible. He takes care not to invite the same few people up to the stage and actively seeks willing participants. It is worth noting that his instructions are not always clear and some audience members were uncomfortable being asked to do things onstage (like dancing), but for the most part, everyone had a good time.

Dugan and Kit (photo by Dugan)

Dugan Kenaz-Mara is a designer, photographer, educator, and recent graduate of Northwestern University.

Chicago Magic Lounge, Chicago’s home for close-up magic, kicks off its 2024 Artist-In-Residence series with Peter Samelson’s Magic, Love, Mystery. In this mesmerizing performance, Samelson takes you on a journey through the enigmatic world of love, exploring its many forms and revealing its secrets. Magic, Love, Mystery runs Wednesdays at 7:00pm, January 10 – March 27, 2024. Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge shows are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com.

Experience the mystery of love through the eyes of a magician with Peter Samelson's one-man show, Magic, Love, Mystery.

Through his masterful storytelling, Peter explores how love can inspire us, transform us from the inside out, and even transcend death. Minds will be read, the imperceptible bond between soul mates will be revealed, and the boundaries of loss and mortality will be crossed, uncovering how memories shape our past and future.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, entertainment, and wonder as Peter Samelson takes you on a whimsical journey through the mystery of love. Get ready to experience pure magic and unlock the secrets of love.

About the Artists

Peter Samelson insists he doesn’t do magic, he only helps people to see it. He is an illusionist/entertainer/philosopher, blending simplicity and sophistication as he provokes thought and inspires wonder.

Recently appearing on Penn & Teller's Fool Us, the pair praised Peter Samelson as "one of the greatest living magicians." Samelson, master magician and off -Broadway star, literally wrote the book on Theatrical Magic. Co-founder of New York City's longest running off -Broadway magic show Monday Night Magic and frequent performer at Speakeasy Magick, one of NY's hottest new shows at the McKittrick Hotel, Peter has been hailed as New York's most distinguished illusionist, entertainer, and philosopher. 

Christened “the soft-spoken conceptualist of sorcery” by the New York Times, Peter Samelson is a recipient of the Merlin Award for Lifetime Achievement, Peter is one of the most sought-after theatrical wizards. He has created magic for some of Broadway's biggest plays and musicals including Leap of Faith, Harvey, The Cherry Orchard, The Winter’s Tale, the National Tour of Pippin, the musical Houdini, Carnival at the Papermill Playhouse, Tom Stoppard's Travesties, and the Menotti opera The Consul. Additionally, Peter has created and starred in three critically acclaimed one-man off -Broadway shows: The Magician, PaperWork, and Radnevsky's Real Magic.

What distinguishes Peter from other artists in the field of Illusion is his commitment to making Magic an Art. His performance is more than mere entertainment, touching the hearts of his audiences in a way few evenings can.

Magic, Love, Mystery will be presented on Wednesdays at 7:00pm, January 10 – March 27, 2024. Tickets are priced $42.50 (Main Floor) and $47.50 (Front Row).

Also Happening at Chicago Magic Lounge

Music & Magic

Mondays at 7:00pm

Tickets: General Admission $30

 

The Showcase

Tuesdays at 7:00pm

Tickets: Standard: $35 - $37.50; Front Row: $40 - $42

The Signature Show

Thursdays-Sundays at 7:00pm, Fridays and Sundays at 10pm

Tickets: Front Row $85 - $96, Premium Main Floor (main floor banquette and main floor cabaret) $72.50 – $82.50, Standard (rail and elevated banquette) $65 - $75, Mezzanine $52.50 – 61.50. 

 

Family Show

Sundays at 3:00pm, November 19, December 3 & 17, January 7 & 21

Tickets: Standard: $40; Front Row: $50

Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge performances are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com. Chicago Magic Lounge is a 21+ venue. Ages 16+ allowed to ticketed evening shows with a legal guardian. Ages 5+ are allowed to The Family Show. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. The staff and performers of the Chicago magic lounge are fully vaccinated for covid 19. Ticket holders must attest to being fully vaccinated against covid-19 or have tested negative within 48 hours prior to your visit to enter the premises.

For a complete schedule of performances and more information about Chicago Magic Lounge, resident and guest performers, and more, please visit chicagomagiclounge.com.

 

Peter Samelson's Magic, Love, Mystery at Chicago Magic Lounge Wednesdays January 10 – March 27, 2024

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Experience the mystery of love through the eyes of a magician with Peter Samelson's one-man show, 

Magic, Love, Mystery 

Through his masterful storytelling, Peter explores how love can inspire us, transform us from the inside out, and even transcend death. Minds will be read, the imperceptible bond between soul mates will be revealed, and the boundaries of loss and mortality will be crossed, uncovering how memories shape our past and future. One of my fabulous freelancers, Dugan will be out to review on January 24th, so check back soon for our take on the show. 

Prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, entertainment, and wonder as Peter Samelson takes you on a whimsical journey through the mystery of love. Get ready to experience pure magic and unlock the secrets of love.

Chicago Magic Lounge, Chicago’s home for close-up magic, kicks off its 2024 Artist-In-Residence series with Peter Samelson’s Magic, Love, Mystery. In this mesmerizing performance, Samelson takes you on a journey through the enigmatic world of love, exploring its many forms and revealing its secrets. Magic, Love, Mystery runs Wednesdays at 7:00pm, January 10 – March 27, 2024. Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge shows are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com.

The Rhapsody Theater Announces Second Season of Theatrical Magic Performances

  ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

The Rhapsody Theater 

a 200-seat venue in Rogers Park, Chicago 

is unveiling its Second season of theatrical magic performances 

following a highly successful inaugural season that started in June 2023

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, we're huge fans of theatrical magic, and adore the Rhapsody Theater as well as Northwestern professor, Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz, founder and owner of the Rhapsody Theater, who performs as the Physician Magician. We've been out to cover the grand opening and several shows since, and can attest that it's always a mystifyingly fun time at Rhapsody. In fact, we'll be back again October 8th to cover The Zabrecky Hour. 

Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz is thrilled to announce the second season of the Rhapsody Theater, the chief inspiration for a new generation of long format theatrical magic productions, as renowned artists from all over the world present brand-new shows created specifically for the venue. Ten full length theatrical magic productions will be presented during the 2023-2024 Season. Six productions are new and created for the Rhapsody Theater, and four are already critically acclaimed and premiered at the Rhapsody Theater Stage in Season One. This season will offer many new shows, and reprise beloved performances, enhanced with new material and magic content.

Magic Castle Stage Magician of the Year, Zabrecky will hold the coveted October Residency at the Rhapsody Theater with his show The Zabrecky Hour. The production is a perfect autumn night out featuring the bizarre, wonderfully strange, and oddly beautiful magic of one of the most sought-after magicians of our day. Performances are from September 28th- October 31st.  Shows are Thursdays through Sunday at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. Ticket prices range from $20 to $80.

Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz will perform the critically acclaimed Physician Magician show throughout the year multiple select performances every month.

November brings renowned British Magician Andi Gladwin and his brand new, made for Rhapsody Theater production: Shuffled. A Close up show for forty audience members with a very special seating arrangement and never-seen-before magic. Andi is one of the most respected and beloved magicians in the world. Performances from November 9th – November 19th. Shows are Thursdays through Sunday at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. Ticket prices range from $20 to $80.

Jamie Allan, known to Chicago Audiences as the iMagician who last sold out the Harris Theatre in 2018, returns to Chicago for the holiday season from Thanksgiving through early January. Amaze, Jamie’s new production exclusive to Rhapsody Theater, is entirely different. At once intimate, personal, and interactive, Amaze will delight audiences of all ages at Rhapsody Theater during the holiday season. Performances are from November 24th – January 7th.

January kicks off with Kayla Drescher in In Your Head. Kayla, a Champion of Magic, and highly respected leader in the magic community premier’s a brand new, Rhapsody Theater production. Kayla comedically explores expectation, coincidence, and what’s really going on in our heads (‘cause you’re all thinking it, she’s just saying it). Performances from January 11th – February 11th. Performances from November 9th – November 19th. Shows are Thursdays through Sunday at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. Ticket prices range from $20 to $80.

In February, Award winning French magician Alexandra Duvivier stars in Extraordinaire. A brand new, Rhapsody Theater produced show designed by Alexandra and featuring original magic created by her. These are Alexandra’s first full length shows in the United States. Audiences will see why Alexandra is one Europe’s greatest magical performers. Performances from February 22th – March 10th.

In April, Joshua Jay returns to the Rhapsody Theater with Look Closer, the show he premiered at Rhapsody theater to great acclaim in April 2023. The 2024 installment will include new illusions created by Joshua for this next installment. Performances from April 4th – April 28th.

Beloved and highly admired magician David Williamson will premier his new show created for Rhapsody Theater called Ridiculous. David has toured with the Illusionists and Circus 1903 and brings his brilliance to Rhapsody Theater with a show centered on one word: Ridiculous! Performances from May 17th – June 30th.

In addition, Ross Johnson will reprise his masterful mind reading show “A funny thing happened… tomorrow” with various dates every month and Larry Hass will return with Magical Life for selected dates in the Winter of 2024.

The second annual McBride’s Magic Festival will occur from May 30th-June 2nd, 2024, and feature multiple shows and lectures for magicians and magic afficionados alike.

Season Subscriptions available:

In Season Two: Subscription packages will be available for multiple shows with special perks and discounts.

More Surprises to come:

Chef’s Table Séance. In Mid-October, Rhapsody Theater will begin presenting séance dinners. Rhapsody Theater will offer a unique experience for ten guests that includes dinner from award winning chefs and a private séance created bespoke for the Rhapsody Theater. Tickets are $150 per person including dinner.

 

More magic, more live music:

In coming weeks Rhapsody Theater will announce many new musical events and more magical performances as well. 

Dr Rosenkranz added, “We are so proud of what we have achieved in our first year of operations. Audiences have loved our space, our performances, and our staff. We are delighted to give life to this “Jewel of a Theater” (as characterized by the Chicago Tribune) that sits in beautiful Rogers Park. Bringing the performing arts and musical culture to the neighborhoods of Chicago is in our DNA. We can’t wait to share Season Two with everyone. Let’s make wonderful magic and music Two-gether! In Season One, The Rhapsody Theater in Chicago quickly established itself as the one of the best venues for theatrical magic in the world and the only venue providing the commitment, infrastructure, and support for multiple long format theatrical magic. Some of the World’s best magicians performed in Season One, achieving rave reviews from audiences and critics alike. The proof of concept complete, The Rhapsody Theater is becoming the buzz of the magic world, and some of the world’s best are eager to create shows exclusive to Rhapsody Theater”.

To purchase tickets or for additional information, visit https://rhapsodytheater.com or call the box office at (888) 495-9001.

THE BUTTCRACKER: A NUTCRACKER BURLESQUE RETURNS TO THE GREENHOUSE THEATER CENTER, DECEMBER 1 - 31

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

THE BUTTCRACKER: A NUTCRACKER BURLESQUE©,

CHICAGO’S FAVORITE ALTERNATIVE 

HOLIDAY SHOW, RETURNS TO 

THE GREENHOUSE THEATER CENTER, DECEMBER 1 - 31

Featuring the Best of Chicago’s Nightlife Entertainment; 

Highlighting the World of Burlesque, Boylesque, Magic, Sword Balancing, 

Circus, Dance and More

The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque© is proud to announce its return this holiday season with the sixth edition of Chicago’s favorite alternative holiday show, a twist on the original story and a live event not to be missed, directed by Miguel Long and choreographed by Dylan Kerr, December 1 - 31 at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave.  The two-hour experience begins with a cocktail hour which includes craft vendors from local artists (Thursday nights), special pre-show performances (Friday and Saturday nights), and brunch fare (Sunday matinees), followed by Tchaicovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite in a saucy, alternative and adult retelling of the holiday classic. Each week features the best of Chicago’s nightlife entertainment in the roles of Tea, Coffee, Chocolate, Vodka and Mother Ginger, featuring sword swallowing, belly dancing, classic burlesque and more. 

I'll be out for the press opening Dec. 1st so check back soon for my full review. Holiday performance schedule includes Thursdays at 8 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m. with a special New Year’s Eve closing night performance Saturday, Dec. 31 at 9 p.m. This New Year’s Eve special event includes a party following the show with cheese and charcuterie snacks, two drink tickets for after the show, a midnight “pole dancer booty drop” countdown with balloons and prizes, a DJ and more. 

There are no performances Friday, Dec. 24 and Saturday, Dec. 25. Admission is available for those 18 years old and older (21+ to drink). Tickets are Industry/SRO, $20; house left general admission, $30/$40 at the door, house center general admission, $40/$50 at the door and VIP, $75/$100 at the door with New Year’s Eve tickets house left general admission, $60/$70 at the door, house center general admission $80/$90 at the door and VIP $150/$200 at the door. Tickets are now on sale at greenhousetheatre.org and TheButtcrackerBurlesque.com and, based on availability,  at the door one hour before the performance.

Audiences are invited to follow Clara and her Buttcracker on a wild hallucinogenic trip from a boring-AF holiday party to the Land of Sweets where they battle rats, save the day and learn that body and sex positivity are to be celebrated. A combination of fairy tale and exotic trip down the rabbit hole with the best of Chicago’s nightlife entertainment. The Buttcracker highlights the world of burlesque, boylesque, magic, sword balancing, circus, dance and more.

The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque© cast includes Elena Avila*/^ (Clara); Olivia Lindsay* (Buttcracker);  Claire Francescon* (Drosselmeyer); Autumn Christensen* (Sugar Bum Fairy);  Baby Bagos Hood*/^ (Boss/Rat King); Hannah Silverman* (ensemble); Mandyn Mueller+/^ (ensemble); Eilish Morse-O'Rourke* (ensemble);  Yasmyne Williams*/^  (ensemble); Savannah Sinclair*/^ (swing) and Sierra Buffum*/^ (ensemble understudy). Features soloists for the roles of Vodka, Tea, Chocolate, Coffee, and Mother Ginger rotate weekly. Every week includes a different kind of performance from the best of Chicago’s nightlife entertainment.

The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque© production team includes Miguel Long+ (director); Dylan Kerr* (choreographer); Brighid Martensen*/^ (costume designer); Gabrielle Strong* (set designer); Samuel Stephen+ (lighting designer);

Rowan Doe^ (props designer); Jake Snell+ (stage manager) and Carlie Rummel* (backstage manager); Kayla Drescher* (magic consultant). Jaq Seifert^/(sub)version productions (producer) and Caylei Hallberg* (producing assistant).

Pronoun Key: + (he/him/his); * (she/her/hers); ^ (they, them, theirs). = (any with respect)

Information on tickets:

New Year’s Eve

Saturday, Dec. 31 at 9 p.m.

Ticket prices: HOUSE LEFT GA $60/75 at the door, HOUSE CENTER GA $80/$100 at the door, VIP $150/$200 at the door.

This special closing performance of the 2022 run includes a make-your-own cheese and charcuterie board, two drink tickets for after the show, a midnight “pole dancer booty drop” countdown with balloons and prizes, a DJ and other special guest performances. 

Regular Performances:

VIP 

Ticket price: $75/$100 at the door

This upgraded ticket includes reserved seating at your own cafe table right on the theatre floor with early entrance to the theatre and a private VIP bar, meet and greet with cast members and official Buttcracker swag. 

General Admission

Ticket price: $40/$50 at the door

General Admission tickets include first come, first served seating in the center section of the theater.

House Left General Admission

Ticket price: $30/$40 at the door

General Admission tickets include first come, first served seating in the house left section of the theater.

Standing Room Only (SRO)

Ticket price:  $20

A limited number of standing room only tickets will be available at the door, based on availability.

ADA Accessible seating is available, email thebuttcrackerburlesque@gmail.com for more information or to make reservations.

ABOUT THE BUTTCRACKER: A NUTCRACKER BURLESQUE

The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque© subverts the classic holiday ballet to promote diversity in body, gender expression, sexuality and race. The show utilizes the platform of parody to encourage audiences to imagine a more inclusive world, redefining the art of the tease through an alternative take on burlesque. This performance would not be possible without the generous support of individuals and companies who understand the value of having alternative adult entertainment during the holiday season, as well as supporting our mission of subverting audience’s expectations of what live entertainment looks and feels like. 

Chicago Magic Lounge Presents Paige Thompson in A Paige in Time Wednesdays beginning October 5, 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Paige Thompson’s A Paige in Time

Chicago Magic Lounge, Chicago’s home for close-up magic, continues its Artist-In-Residence series with Paige Thompson’s A Paige in Time, Wednesdays at 7:00pm, October 5 – December 21, 2022. A Chicago Magic Lounge favorite, Thompson’s new show is built on the moments in her life that have shaped her unique approach to magic. Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge shows are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com.

What can you say about Paige Thompson? She's talented and quirky. She loves the Miami Dolphins and Oakland A's. Sequins and stilettos. And, above all else, Magic. Join Paige as she shares moments from her life that have motivated her to pursue her passion and fuel the inspiration for her unique take on Magic. Fun, interactive, and amazing, A Paige in Time is a Magic show with heart.

Paige Thompson travels the world sharing her distinctive brand of Magic. A resident company member of Chicago Magic Lounge, she has also wowed crowds in Branson, Missouri, Liberty Magic in Pittsburgh, the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, and House of Cards in Nashville, Tennessee.

Her television credits include multiple appearances on the CW's Masters of Illusion and as a featured contestant on FOX's Showtime at the Apollo, hosted by Steve Harvey. Most recently, Paige was featured on Penn and Teller: Fool Us. Her international television credits include the highly acclaimed America's Got Talent and Germany's Das Supertalent, where she can be seen working alongside some of the top illusionists in the game.

A Paige in Time will be presented on Wednesdays at 7:00pm, October 5 – December 21, 2022. Tickets are priced $45 (Main Floor) and $50 (Front Row).

Also Happening at Chicago Magic Lounge

Music & Magic

Mondays at 7:00pm

Tickets: General Admission $30

 

The Showcase

Tuesdays at 7:00pm

Tickets: Standard: $35; Front Row: $40

Artist-in-Residence Series

Wednesdays at 7:00pm

Luis Carreon, La Bestia, Now through September 28, 2022

Tickets: Standard: $45; Front Row: $50

What you see is not always what you get. Beneath Luis Carreon's suave and debonair exterior lies La Bestia (The Beast). In his one-man show, Luis combines his jaw-dropping magical skills, his Latin heritage, and off-the-wall comedy to share his real-life experiences, poking fun at stereotypes, cultural differences, and himself. 

Luis Carreon is a highly sought-after entertainer, performing magic across the country – from New York City's Monday Night Magic to House of Cards in Nashville to the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. An award-winning and well-respected magician, Luis regularly travels the country teaching other magicians about the art of magic. He is also a regular performer, fan favorite, and co-founding company member of the Chicago Magic Lounge. 

The Signature Show

Thursdays-Sundays at 7:00pm, Fridays and Sundays at 10pm

Tickets: Front Row $85, Premium Main Floor (main floor banquette and main floor cabaret) $72.50, Standard (rail and elevated banquette) $65, Mezzanine $52.50. 

The Signature Show was conceived in 2015 as an homage to the historic, Chicago magic bar scene. Experience close-up magic right at your table during the cocktail hour, followed by an hour of stage magic featuring masters of their craft performing feats of prestidigitation and sleight of hand. Guests who purchase Premium tickets (Front Row, Main Floor Cabaret, Main Floor Banquette) are invited to an exclusive performance of close-up magic directly after the main stage show in our 43-seat close-up gallery, The 654 Club.

 

Holiday Week

Chicago Magic Lounge presents a week of Signature Shows between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

 

The Holiday week schedule for The Signature Show is as follows:

December 26-30 at 7pm

Thursday, December 29 and Friday, December 30 at 10pm

New Year’s Eve Signature Show, Friday, December 31 at 7pm, New Year's Eve Celebration Show at 10pm

Tickets for performances December 26-30 are (Front Row) $85, (Premium Main Floor) $72.50, (Standard Main Floor) $65, (Mezzanine) $52.50. Tickets to the early New Years Even show are (Front Row) $90, (Premium Main Floor) $77.50, (Standard Main Floor) $70, (Mezzanine) $57.50.

Make your New Year’s Eve extraordinary with a night of magic at The New Year’s Eve Celebration, Saturday, December 31 at 10pm. The evening starts with close-up magic performed right at your cabaret table by our talented house magicians. In between visits, you will have time to socialize with your party and order from our full-service bar and kitchen. Table magic is followed by a 60-minute stage show. Tickets are $80 (Mezzanine); $85 (Standard Main Floor); $95 (Premium Main Floor) and $110 (Front Row). Ticket prices include a champagne toast at midnight and souvenir champagne flute.

Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge performances are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com. Chicago Magic Lounge is a 21+ venue. Ages 16+ allowed to ticketed shows with a legal guardian. 

For the health and safety of our staff, guests and community, you must be fully vaccinated to enter the premises. Ticket holders will be asked to present proof of vaccination status upon arrival.

For a complete schedule of performances and more information about Chicago Magic Lounge, resident and guest performers, and more, please visit chicagomagiclounge.com.

REVIEW: Artist-In-Residence Luis Carreon, La Bestia at Chicago Magic Lounge Wednesdays Through September 28, 2022.

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Chicago Magic Lounge Presents

Luis Carreon, La Bestia

Wednesdays Through September 28, 2022 

Guest Review

by Dugan Kenaz-Mara

Chicago Magic Lounge has once again astounded, mystified, and astonished us with another wonderful magic show by Artist-In-Residence Luis Carreon, La Bestia.

From start to finish, the experience was magical. Even as a returning guest, I enjoyed the lead-in to the main stage area and the history of magic that comes along with it. I could also tell that it was breathtaking for my friend who had never been to the magic lounge before. He was fooled multiple times and was exclaiming about how cool it was the entire way to our seats. 

Once we made it to our places, the staff were incredibly kind and the close-up magicians who came to the tables before the show were also great. The best part is how they were willing to play with us when we engaged them in bits. One table magician, while presenting a deck of cards, told us he was going to perform a card trick. When we responded that calling it a “card trick” was apt and questioned whether he had come up with that himself, he countered by telling us he had a team of writers who came up with it for him. It was fun to joke around with him and better still when it didn’t impede his flawless sleight of hand. 

Then, after already being blown away by the magic lounge’s environment, we were blown even further away by Luis Carreon’s performance. While he has a dramatic flair, his most notable feature is his humor. The show is full of pop culture references and he makes tons of jokes, including ones about his heritage and the stereotypes that come along with it. He engaged the audience throughout the whole show and even played a prank on one volunteer. 

I also loved his ability to improvise with what the audience gave him. Some audience members didn’t play along with his jokes and were contrarian, which he was able to turn into more bits to entertain the rest of the audience. On the other hand, there was an audience member who gave him a small heart-shaped chocolate, which he incorporated into his act alongside other heart-shaped props. 

The use of props was also really intriguing to me. He had some of the obvious magician things, like coins and decks of cards, but he also made use of random objects including a house key from a mesh bag of keys, a cardboard box, a stuffed animal with a sombrero, a picture frame, and a piñata. 

Overall, I would count this experience as a good one and would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in magic or is looking for a fun night of entertainment. 

Dugan is an actor, designer, and photographer studying theatre and psychology at Northwestern University. This summer you can find him on cast at Bristol Renaissance Fair for the 4th season, dancing, singing, performing street theatre, and juggling knives. Contrary to popular belief, he is not a time traveler.

Chicago Magic Lounge, Chicago’s home for close-up magic, continues its Artist-In-Residence series with Luis Carreon, La Bestia, Wednesdays at 7:00pm, July 6 – September 28, 2022. A Chicago Magic Lounge favorite, Carreon showcases his unparalleled skill and mischievous sense of humor in this brand new, Spanish-infused show. Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge shows are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com..

 

What you see is not always what you get. Beneath Luis Carreon's suave and debonair exterior lies La Bestia (The Beast). In his one-man show, Luis combines his jaw-dropping magical skills, his Latin heritage, and off-the-wall comedy to share his real-life experiences, poking fun at stereotypes, cultural differences, and himself. 

 

Luis Carreon is a highly sought-after entertainer, performing magic across the country – from New York City's Monday Night Magic to House of Cards in Nashville to the World Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. An award-winning and well-respected magician, Luis regularly travels the country teaching other magicians about the art of magic. He is also a regular performer, fan favorite, and co-founding company member of the Chicago Magic Lounge. 

 

Carreon has made numerous television appearances, domestically and internationally. He has been featured on the Univision Evening News and was a semi-finalist on Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento, the Spanish language equivalent of America's Got Talent.

Luis Carreon, La Bestia will be presented on Wednesdays at 7:00pm, July 6 – September 28, 2022. Tickets are priced $45 (Main Floor) and $50 (Front Row). 

Also Happening at Chicago Magic Lounge

Music & Magic

Mondays at 7:00pm

Tickets: General Admission $25

The Showcase

Tuesdays at 7:00pm

Tickets: Standard: $35; Front Row: $40

Artist-in-Residence Series

Wednesdays at 7:00pm

Sean Masterson’s Message in a Bottle, Now through June 29, 2022

Tickets: Standard: $45; Front Row: $50

The discovery of a message in a bottle makes the past present in Sean Masterson’s very visual and highly deceptive show. Sleight-of-hand magic is seamlessly woven into the true tale of the 19th century battle to decide America’s #1 magician.

In 1912 theatrical impresario Michael B. Leavitt published his 700-page memoir dishing the untold story of this jealousy-fueled battle between his clients, the magic greats Alexander Herrmann and Harry Kellar. Recently, Sean Masterson procured a signed edition of Leavitt’s memoir at auction and together with his research of Harry Houdini’s original archives at the Library of Congress in D.C., he has found the thread that nearly tells the whole tale. All Masterson needs now is a message in a bottle.

The Signature Show

Thursdays-Sundays at 7:00pm, Fridays and Sundays at 10pm

Tickets: Front Row $80, Premium Main Floor (main floor banquette and main floor cabaret) $70, Standard (rail and elevated banquette) $60, Mezzanine $50 

The Signature Show was conceived in 2015 as an homage to the historic, Chicago magic bar scene. Experience close-up magic right at your table during the cocktail hour, followed by an hour of stage magic featuring masters of their craft performing feats of prestidigitation and sleight of hand. Guests who purchase Premium tickets (Front Row, Main Floor Cabaret, Main Floor Banquette) are invited to an exclusive performance of close-up magic directly after the main stage show in our 43-seat close-up gallery, The 654 Club.

Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge performances are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com. Chicago Magic Lounge is a 21+ venue. Ages 16+ allowed to ticketed shows with a legal guardian. 

For the health and safety of our staff, guests and community, you must be fully vaccinated to enter the premises. Ticket holders will be asked to present proof of vaccination status upon arrival.

For a complete schedule of performances and more information about Chicago Magic Lounge, resident and guest performers, and more, please visit chicagomagiclounge.com.

SAVE THE DATES: Sean Masterson’s Message in a Bottle at Chicago Magic Lounge Wednesdays beginning April 6, 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Chicago Magic Lounge Presents

Sean Masterson’s Message in a Bottle

Wednesdays beginning April 6, 2022

**Tickets go on sale February 7, 2022**

Chicago Magic Lounge, Chicago’s home for close-up magic, continues its Artist-In-Residence series with Sean Masterson’s Message in a Bottle, Wednesdays at 7:00pm, April 6 – June 29, 2022. Masterson’s combination of magic and storytelling in this brand new show will amaze and enchant audiences. Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge shows are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com.

The discovery of a message in a bottle makes the past present in Sean Masterson’s very visual and highly deceptive show. Sleight-of-hand magic is seamlessly woven into the true tale of the 19th century battle to decide American’s #1 magician.

In 1912 theatrical impresario Michael B. Leavitt published his 700-page memoir dishing the untold story of this jealousy-fueled battle between his clients, the magic greats Alexander Herrmann and Harry Kellar. Recently, Sean Masterson procured a signed edition of Leavitt’s memoir at auction and together with his research of Harry Houdini’s original archives at the Library of Congress in D.C., he has found the thread that nearly tells the whole tale. All Masterson needs now is a message in a bottle.

Sean’s blend of magic and storytelling have been part of the Chicago theater scene since his 1992 run at Shattered Globe Theater. Since then, he has performed in extended runs at Live Bait Theater, The Actors Gymnasium, The Music Box Theater, and Theater Wit. His close-up magic has been seen at many corporate, social events including Abbott Laboratories, The Chicago Architecture Foundation, Copia Capital and The Driehaus Museum. He regularly performs at the Old Town Art Fair and The Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI and has made appearances at Festimagic in Paris and The International Theater Festival of Grenoble, France. Each year Sean makes 40 appearances in local children’s hospitals.

Message in a Bottle will be presented on Wednesdays at 7:00pm, April 6 – June 29, 2022. Tickets are priced $45 (Main Floor) and $50 (Front Row). Tickets go on sale February 7, 2022.

Also Happening at Chicago Magic Lounge

 

Music & Magic

Mondays at 7:00pm

Tickets: General Admission $25

 

The Showcase

Tuesdays at 7:00pm

Tickets: Standard: $35; Front Row: $40

Artist-in-Residence Series

Wednesdays at 7:00pm

 

Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels, Now through March 30, 2022

Tickets: Standard: $45; Front Row: $50

Ever wonder what the life of a magician is like? Join Kayla Drescher on this wild ride of magic, laughter, and interactive fun. And it’s all done in heels…because “magic in pajamas” was already taken.

Kayla Drescher, based in Los Angeles, brings her interactive show to the Chicago Magic Lounge. She’s performed for clients like Microsoft, IBM, Wells Fargo, and many more. You may have seen her on Penn & Teller’s “Fool Us,” Access Hollywood, or NBC’s “Today Show,” where she was given the title “The Next Great Magician” by David Copperfield. Most recently, Kayla could be seen touring the world with the Champions of Magic. Kayla hosts a popular magic podcast, Shezam, focused on diversity and inclusion within the magic and allied arts communities.

 

The Signature Show

Thursdays-Sundays at 7:00pm, Fridays and Sundays at 10pm

Tickets: Front Row $80, Premium Main Floor (main floor banquette and main floor cabaret) $70, Standard (rail and elevated banquette) $60, Mezzanine $50 

The Signature Show was conceived in 2015 as an homage to the historic, Chicago magic bar scene. Experience close-up magic right at your table during the cocktail hour, followed by an hour of stage magic featuring masters of their craft performing feats of prestidigitation and sleight of hand. Guests who purchase Premium tickets (Front Row, Main Floor Cabaret, Main Floor Banquette) are invited to an exclusive performance of close-up magic directly after the main stage show in our 43-seat close-up gallery, The 654 Club.

Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge performances are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com. Chicago Magic Lounge is a 21+ venue. Ages 16+ allowed to ticketed shows with a legal guardian. 

For the health and safety of our staff, guests and community, you must be fully vaccinated to enter the premises. Ticket holders will be asked to present proof of vaccination status upon arrival.

For a complete schedule of performances and more information about Chicago Magic Lounge, resident and guest performers, and more, please visit chicagomagiclounge.com.

Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels, Holiday Week, New Year’s Eve Performances of The Signature Show And More From Chicago Magic Lounge

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

Chicago Magic Lounge announces next show in Artist-in-Residence series

Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels

Wednesdays at 7:00pm

January 5 – March 30, 2022

Kayla D by Dana Lynn Photo

Additional Holiday Week and New Year’s Eve performances of

The Signature Show scheduled

December 26-31, 2021

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, Chicago Magic Lounge has long been a favorite of ours. Tickets make a great clutter busting idea for holiday gifting. Add a bit of professional magic to this magical season, creating lasting memories with friends and family. 

Nick Diffatte

We were most recently out at Chicago Magic Lounge to catch Nick Diffatte: Offbeat, now through December 22, 2021 and highly recommend it. His comedic timing is impeccable, and his magic is a unique blend of comedy and mind melting illusions. Offbeat is an entertaining night out, heavy on audience participation, and far from the same old same old magicians have been doing for decades. Treat yourself!

Chicago Magic Lounge, Chicago’s home for close-up magic, continues its Artist-In-Residence series with Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels, Wednesdays at 7:00pm, January 5 – March 30, 2022. Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels is a wild ride of magic, laughter, and interactive fun, all done in heels because “magic in pajamas” was already taken. Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge shows are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com.

Kayla D by Dana Lynn Photo

Kayla Drescher, based in Los Angeles, brings her interactive show to the Chicago Magic Lounge. She’s performed for clients like Microsoft, IBM, Wells Fargo, and many more. Kayla has been seen on Penn & Teller’s “Fool Us,” Access Hollywood, and NBC’s “Today Show,” where she was given the title “The Next Great Magician” by David Copperfield. Most recently, she could be seen touring the world with the Champions of Magic. Kayla hosts a popular magic podcast, Shezam, focused on diversity and inclusion within the magic and allied arts communities.

Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels will be presented on Wednesdays at 7:00pm, January 5 – March 30, 2022. Tickets are priced $45 (Main Floor) and $50 (Front Row). Tickets go on sale November 15, 2021.

Special Holiday and New Year’s Eve Performances at Chicago Magic Lounge

Chicago Magic Lounge will add performances of its most popular show, The Signature Show, this holiday season. Tickets for holiday week performances are currently on sale.

Luis Carreon (Headliner)

The Signature Show: Holiday Schedule

December 26-30 at 7pm and December 30 at 10pm

Tickets: $50-$55 (Standard); $65-$75 (Premium, includes 654 Club admission)

Additional Performance on December 31 at 7pm

Tickets: Front Row $95, Main Floor Cabaret and Main Floor Banquette $85, Standard Main Floor $70, Standard Mezzanine $65

Justin Purcell (654 Club)

The Signature Show: New Year’s Eve Celebration

December 31st at 10 pm

Tickets: Front Row $110, Main Floor Cabaret and Main Floor Banquette $95, Standard Main Floor $80, Standard Mezzanine $75

Ryan Plunkett (Featured Act)

Make your New Year’s Eve extraordinary with a night of magic! The evening starts with close-up magic performed right at your cabaret table by our talented house magicians. In between visits, you will have time to socialize with your party and order from our full-service bar and kitchen. Table magic is followed by a 60-minute stage show featuring CML favorites, Luis Carreon (Headliner), Ryan Plunkett (Featured Act) and Justin Purcell (654 Club). All tickets include a commemorative champagne flute and a champagne toast as we welcome the arrival of 2022.

The Signature Show was conceived in 2015 as an homage to the historic, Chicago magic bar scene. Experience close-up magic right at your table during the cocktail hour, followed by an hour of stage magic featuring masters of their craft performing feats of prestidigitation and sleight of hand. Guests who purchase Premium tickets (Front Row, Main Floor Cabaret, Main Floor Banquette) are invited to an exclusive performance of close-up magic directly after the main stage show in our 43-seat close-up gallery, The 654 Club.

 

Also Happening at Chicago Magic Lounge

Music & Magic

Mondays at 7:00pm

Tickets: General Admission $25

 

The Showcase

Tuesdays at 7:00pm

Tickets: Standard: $35; Front Row: $40

 

Artist-in-Residence Series

Wednesdays at 7:00pm

 

Nick Diffatte: Offbeat, now through December 22, 2021 (except November 24, 2021)

Tickets: Standard: $40; Front Row: $45

Nick Diffatte: Offbeat is an evening of dry humor, quick wit, and incredible skill, combining a lifetime of experience in magic and the variety arts into an interactive comedy experience.

Nick Diffatte has taken the scene by storm and is quickly becoming one of the most talked about and in demand comedy variety acts working today. His unique approach has been called a “breath of fresh air” and has led to appearances at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, The Late Late Show on CBS, has won multiple awards, and landed him in comedy clubs across the country. Nick takes the format of a standard “Magic Show” and turns it completely on its head and has audiences laughing uncontrollably from beginning to end.

 

Kayla Drescher: Magic in Heels, January 5 – March 30, 2022

Tickets: Standard: $45; Front Row: $50

Ever wonder what the life of a magician is like? Join Kayla Drescher on this wild ride of magic, laughter, and interactive fun. And it’s all done in heels…because “magic in pajamas” was already taken.

Kayla Drescher, based in Los Angeles, brings her interactive show to the Chicago Magic Lounge.  She’s performed for clients like Microsoft, IBM, Wells Fargo, and many more. You may have seen her on Penn & Teller’s “Fool Us,” Access Hollywood, or NBC’s “Today Show,” where she was given the title “The Next Great Magician” by David Copperfield. Most recently, Kayla could be seen touring the world with the Champions of Magic. Kayla hosts a popular magic podcast, Shezam, focused on diversity and inclusion within the magic and allied arts communities.

 

The Signature Show

Thursdays-Sundays at 7:00pm, Fridays and Sundays at 10pm

Tickets: Front Row $80, Premium Main Floor (main floor banquette and main floor cabaret), Standard (rail and elevated banquette) $60, Mezzanine $50 

The Signature Show was conceived in 2015 as an homage to the historic, Chicago magic bar scene. Experience close-up magic right at your table during the cocktail hour, followed by an hour of stage magic featuring masters of their craft performing feats of prestidigitation and sleight of hand. Guests who purchase Premium tickets (Front Row, Main Floor Cabaret, Main Floor Banquette) are invited to an exclusive performance of close-up magic directly after the main stage show in our 43-seat close-up gallery, The 654 Club.

Tickets for all Chicago Magic Lounge performances are available at the box office, (312) 366-4500 or online at chicagomagiclounge.com. Chicago Magic Lounge is a 21+ venue. Ages 16+ allowed to ticketed shows with a legal guardian. For the health and safety of our staff, guests and community, you must be fully vaccinated to enter the premises. Ticket holders may be required to present proof of vaccination status. 

For a complete schedule of performances and more information about Chicago Magic Lounge, as well as resident and guest performers, Chicago Magic College classes, the Chicago Magic Round Table, and more, please visit chicagomagiclounge.com.

 

About Chicago Magic Lounge

Chicago Magic Lounge reinvents the classic "magic bar" that once dotted Chicago's nightlife landscape, bringing cocktails and card tricks back together again. Shows include magic performance at the bar, on the stage and in true Chicago-style Magic form, at the tables of the guests, providing the classic "Close-Up" tradition Chicago-style Magic is known for. Chicago Magic Lounge is also the home of the Chicagoland magic community, showcasing over 30 local professionals, and serving as a networking hub for working magicians from all over the world. 

The newly constructed theater at 5050 N. Clark St., designed by Morris Architects Planners, has ushered in a new wave of entertainment, bringing back “Chicago-style Magic” under the leadership of Donald C Clark, Jr. and Joseph (Joey) Cranford. Converted from a 1930s-era, commercial laundry building, the Chicago Magic Lounge is a 7,200 square-foot, Art Deco, state-of-the-art theater and lounge complete with secret doors, elegant performance areas and a magic bar – all dedicated to the art of sleight of hand, prestidigitation and Chicago's contribution to the magical arts. From magicians to mind readers, Chicago Magic Lounge provides guests the unique, one-of-a-kind experience of seeing wonders up-close and personal in a venue unlike anything else offered throughout the country.

Magic Immersive Heading For Chicago December 3rd, 2021

ChiIL Live Shows on Our Radar

Here at ChiIL Live Shows and ChiIL Mama, we adore magic and illusion. As we enter the magic of the holiday season, we're thrilled that Chicago is about to be home to Magic Immersive, from the innovators behind the blockbuster Immersive Van Gogh exhibition seen by over 3.5 million visitors since its North American debut last year. I've seen the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit three times now and covered the show, their visually stunning morning yoga classes in the event space, and their evening concerts and wine tasting series. The Immersive Van Gogh exhibit is truly a treat and I can't wait to see what Lighthouse Immersive does with the element of magic and superstar, Jamie Allan. We're also big fans of experiential gift giving, like show tickets that create memories instead of clutter. Don't snooze on Magic Immersive, an exhilarating magic experience just in time to ignite the holiday season. Tickets are on sale now. 

This December, Lighthouse Immersive and the famed British illusionist Jamie Allan invite audiences into a world of intrigue, mystery and wonder with Magic Immersive. Consisting of a series of rooms, stages and interactive displays, Magic Immersive transports visitors to different eras in time, revealing the evolution of magic acts throughout history and the secrets of the world’s greatest magic performers. Tickets are on-sale now at magicimmersive.com. 

This first-of-its-kind installation will occupy the third and fourth floors of 360 N. State St., the venue that hosted The Art of Banksy in the fall and is also the home of Chicago’s Museum of Broadcast Communications. The official name for the exhibition space is “The Illusionarium at Magic Immersive.” Magic Immersive features dozens of acts from engaging close-up parlor magic to one of the largest touring illusions in the world: the Mega Drill, all spread across two whole floors worth of immersive performance space, engaging audiences in 360 degrees of experiential magic while revealing amazing feats from the history of stage magic along the way. The venue additionally houses a bar and the Palais Royal VIP theater, which features an exclusive parlor for close-up magic performances.  

Some members of magic royalty delivered their own magic for the exhibit. One exclusive experience includes a pre-recorded illusion presented by the world-renowned comedic magic duo Penn and Teller just for Magic Immersive audiences, while a separate display from David Copperfield allows visitors to capture a selfie of themselves being levitated by him. In addition, world-renowned daredevil and escapologist Jonathan Goodwin personally designed and built his modern version of Houdini’s “Water Escape,” adding an especially thrilling moment. These experiences simply scratch the surface of what Magic Immersive offers. From death-defying escapes to sleight of hand magic to vanishings and levitations; the Illusionarium  features one of the most ambitious assemblies of magic performances ever presented. 

“Magic Immersive was, in many ways, born of my own lifelong love of magic as well as from the circumstances of the pandemic,” says co-producer Corey Ross of Lighthouse Immersive. “I had intended to bring Jamie’s iMagician stage show to Toronto last December, but when it became clear that wasn’t possible, he and I began to ask ourselves what could be possible in this new world. What we have come up with is infinitely exciting, and demonstrates how amazing ideas can be born from challenge.”  

“Magic Immersive is completely unique in seamlessly blending technology and practical magic – I have been combining magic and technology since I was a boy, but this takes that passion to a whole new level,” says creator Jamie Allan (iMagician). “I am so thrilled to debut this experiential work in Chicago in a venue that is quickly becoming known as an exhibition space.” 

Tickets for Magic Immersive start at $45, VIP options and add-ons are also available. Tickets are on-sale now for showings from Dec. 3 to Jan. 2 at 360 N. State St. For more information on Magic Immersive, and to purchase tickets, visit  magicimmersive.com. Follow Magic Immersive on social media on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. 

ABOUT JAMIE ALLAN

Jamie Allan is world-renowned for fusing magic with high technology. As the UK’s original technology magician, he premiered his iMagic creation on ITV’s “This Morning” in 1995 when he was just a teenager. Since then, he has been performing and designing incredible modern illusions using leading edge technology and innovative methods including working with iPads, holograms, laser beams, 3D video mapping, 4D lasers, drones and interactive social media to engage and amaze his audiences.  

He also holds the accolade of being the most televised British illusionist of the last decade and has become known as the iMagician. Jamie performed his signature iPad illusion “Digital Art” to close the BBC One Show live to millions of viewers, an illusion he has repeated live on ‘Grand Cabaret Du Monde’, ‘BBC Breakfast’, ‘The Slammer’ and the ‘Penn and Teller: Fool Us’ television series. He has also been seen as a star mentor on the ITV1 prime-time show ‘Get Your Act Together’ and was a winner of ITV’s prime-time show ‘The Next Great Magician.’  

Jamie’s award-winning production iMagician opened at the Garrick Theatre in London’s West End in 2015. In 2017, he was chosen by his peers to headline the world’s largest magic convention in front of 3,500 magicians. In the same year, he was bestowed the highest honour of The Magic Circle; invited by the President, he became one of the very few members of The Inner Magic Circle. Jamie joined the ranks of Harry Houdini, David Copperfield and Derren Brown in this exclusive, internationally acclaimed and historic society. iMagician debuted in the United States in 2018 becoming the highest selling magic show ever in the history of Chicago theatre district during his residency at the Harris Theatre.  

ABOUT LIGHTHOUSE IMMERSIVE

Founded in 2019 by Toronto-based producers, Corey Ross and Svetlana Dvoretsky, Lighthouse Immersive is the first experiential entertainment multi-plex, aiming to cultivate community and creativity through large-scale events and exhibitions of all art forms. With locations across North America, Lighthouse Immersive offers versatile spaces for creators to present their work while engaging audiences around the globe in unique art experiences that encourage dialogue and inspire new artistic creations. The home of the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit, Lighthouse Immersive blends state-of-the-art technology with breathtaking imagery and animation for experiential experiences that visitors will not soon forget.