Displaying items by tag: Magician

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.

Chicago great legend Marshall Brodien has passed away at 84 after battling Alzheimer’s since he was diagnosed in 2007. Brodien, who started out as a carnival barker for traveling freak shows then later established himself as a hypnotist, was probably best known for his 27-year run with The Bozo Show as “Wizzo the Wizard”. Since his debut on the popular WGN powerhouse, Brodien became one of the most respected magicians – and he simply loved the art. He dedicated the downstairs of his Geneva home to magic memorabilia, making it pretty much a museum of his life and other famous magicians. From Harry Houdini’s famous collapsing birdcage, “Wizzo’s costume and elaborate self-designed illusions to magic kits created by himself (and of course, TV Magic Cards, perhaps his most popular invention), each room was a journey into the world of wonder he loved so very much.  

The Emmy Award winner and recipient of the Chicago TV Academy's Silver Circle Hall of Fame was not just a Chicago favorite but a national treasure as well, designing illusions for David Copperfield and other top magicians. Both Criss Angel and Lance Burton, whom we interviewed in the past, referred to Brodien as on of the greats and a big influence on their careers as a magician.

We wanted to celebrate Marshall Brodien by posting one of our all-time favorite interviews when the great magician invited us into his Geneva home with much pride and enthusiasm. Marshall gave us the full tour of his home and, with the excitement of a child, wowed us with several magic tricks. The interview is also a magical journey that gives viewers an inside look at Brodien's impressive, personal collection of magic throuout his career and also shows the kind, friendly man he will always be known for. Marshall truly enjoyed performing for others and watching the astonished looks on people's faces after each amazing feat. Visiting his home was one of my highlights as a member of the Buzz Center Stage team, and thankfully, he wouldn’t let me leave without a signed copy of his book “The Magical Life of Marshall Brodien” and a deck of TV Magic Cards – two items I will always cherish. Marshall will be missed. 

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!

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.

I have a tough time reviewing magicians because I don’t want to describe the tricks in detail and ruin the suspense for future audiences.  I will just say that my partner and I were seated in the front row right in the center next to the stage and still could not tell you how ANY of Copperfield’s amazing illusions were done, including making about 12 audience members disappear at once!

I loved that all of David’s magic assistants onstage were men!  I have always found the scantily clad female assistants in most magic acts to be a sexist distraction but in this case the casually dressed and athletic young men who helped move all of the large equipment for each illusion around really moved the show along and gave the audience a feeling that they were in the middle of the action. Copperfield’s audience involvement was excellent, just knowing that at any moment you might be thrown a ball to catch or be plucked out of the audience to go onstage was a big part of the overall suspense factor in the show.  I won’t give away the illusion but there is one part of the show where David talks at length about missing his father who passed many years ago. This was a particularly well done and heartfelt illusion that everyone in the audience could identify with.

I have mixed feelings about the use of an adorable live duck in his show only because I feel so many lesser performers will attempt this and end up hurting or abusing their show animals long term. It was a brief part of the show and should probably be phased out in favor of his many new and exciting illusions.

David is a master magician and there is a reason that he can still pack ‘em in. Considered one of the world’s best illusionists, David has been a favorite act at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for several years running and there is no reason to believe he won’t continue wowing Vegas tourists for years to come. There are several moments in David’s show that bring back the awe and wonderment that one may not have experienced since being a child.   

Overall, this was a family friendly and exciting magic show that will amaze and stun magic lovers of all ages. A recommended stop while visiting Vegas’ Strip, David Copperfield will not disappoint.  With Lance Burton now retired from his long-running gig at the Monte Carlo, Copperfield clearly stands alone as the best magic act in Las Vegas.

For a fun night of mystery and the unexplained, be sure to catch David Copperfield at Las Vegas’ MGM Hotel and Casino. David does not perform at MGM week in and week out so you’ll need to first check his schedule out at  http://www.mgmgrand.com/entertainment/david-copperfield.aspx. Show tickets are just north of $100 and there are also meet and greet tickets available for an extra cost for those who want more intimate access to the living legend.