Chicago Magic Lounge- A Memorable Night of Magic

Chicagoans have a plethora of entertainment they can enjoy —sports, music, an extravaganza of restaurants, theatrical events, and, depending on the season, endless possibilities. But with all those options, many forget about the "City of Big Shoulders" being known for its magic. It was 1893 when a sprite young man named Harry Houdini performed at the Chicago World's Fair. Chicago's rich history of magicians features Harry Blackstone Sr., Celeste Evans, and the Thurston Brothers. However, these are historical magicians. Yet, purposely tucked far away from the tourist-heavy- River North area and conveniently located south of the Andersonville high-rent district, an unassuming building at 5050 North Clark that magically transforms into a minibar is where the magic begins. But to get there, you must go through the secret entrance of the fake laundry room. 

Part speakeasy, part magic theater, the illusion of the building is just a part of the delight audiences receive. The darkly-lit atmosphere at the minibar adds to the magical night, and the intimate magic theater seating puts for front and center to the action. There are a lot of tricks up their sleeves, and if you get there early, the audience gets treated to the cocktail lounge magic of Deven Brown with libations to start the night. Brown's magic tricks and sarcastic comedic style is a perfect way to prepare the partons for a night of magic mania. 

As you enter the private speakeasy, where the main attractions begin, magicians come to your table, performing card tricks that will amaze you. The night we were there, Kayla Drescher performed at our table, and I'm still trying to figure out how she changed a deck of cards in my hand. Formerly a commercial laundry space created as an homage to Chicago's classic Magic Bars, Chicago Magic Lounge (CML) continues Chicago's renowned magic with talented magicians and mentalist Mark Toland. 

Mark Toland's Mystery Show, specializing in mind reading, thrilling audiences by accurately providing their birthdays, numbers, and personal information that will blow your mind. Toland's wit and whimsical humor are enjoyable, compelling us with his mind-reading abilities. The only serious part of the show was when he spoke of his mother-in-law and daughter, which connected with the audience. Toland asks that everyone turn off their cameras during his performance, as he wants others to enjoy the same excitement he provided us. But there is one time he allows us to take a picture, and how he changes the photo is amazing. His mystery show is fantastic, and CML's unique and brilliant devotion to sleight-of-hand magical arts makes Chicagoans proud that magic is still alive and well. It's magical entertainment at its finest. You will get incredible magical performances and delicious food every night at CML! And if you want to give the gift of magic, check out their website for gift certificates. 

We always enjoy talking with the beautiful, charming, and gracious Marketing Director, Cyndi Ferkol —and if you get the chance, sit down with Co-Owner Joseph (Joey) Cranford, whose historical magic knowledge regarding magicians who performed in Chicago is impressive. 

Let's Play Highly Recommends The Chicago Magic Lounge. 

Chicago Magic Lounge

5050 North Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

312-366-4500

www.chicagomagiclounge.com