Trickery is a small-venue magic show in Chicago's Lakeview neighbourhood, at 3453 N Halsted Street. The audience is capped at 36 travellers, seating is general admission, and the show lasts about one to two hours. It is rated 4.9 from 116 reviews, which is a strong score for a niche show. The operator details describes it as intended for adults, with innuendo but no swearing, and not recommended for children under 12. It is a good evening out for adults who want something different from a Broadway show or a comedy club.
The attraction of an intimate magic show is that the performer is only a few feet away, which makes the tricks more astonishing and the experience more interactive. Doors open 30 minutes before the start time, and you pick a start time when you book. Guests may bring their own drinks, and cups and bottle openers are available.
Lakeview is a lively neighbourhood with restaurants and bars, so it is easy to build an evening around the show. The venue is small and tickets tend to sell out, so book ahead. The booking is non-refundable, so check your dates carefully.
If you are choosing between nightlife options, this one suits groups of friends and couples who enjoy close-up magic and light adult humour. Families with younger children should look elsewhere. Combine it with a Halsted Street dinner and a visit to Wrigley Field on the same trip.
A close-up magic show relies on audience participation as well as skill, so be prepared to be called on or to see tricks performed within arm's reach. The small size of the room means that performers can adapt to the crowd, and each show can feel slightly different. The adults-oriented tone keeps the humour sharp without profanity, according to the host's comments when you book. Arrive when doors open to choose a good seat, since seating is general admission, and think about bringing your own drinks, which is permitted.
Lakeview is a pleasant neighbourhood for pre-show dinner or a post-show drink, with plenty of options along Halsted Street and nearby streets. If you plan to see a Cubs game at Wrigley Field during the same trip, this makes a good evening bookend. Because tickets are non-refundable, confirm your dates and start time before paying, and read your confirmation for the entry details.
What to expect
The experience
A small-venue magic show with general-admission seating and a maximum of 36 guests.
Best time
Choose your start time at booking; doors open 30 minutes early.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Book early because it often sells out, remember it is non-refundable, and bring your own drinks if you like.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adults who want close-up magic in an intimate room.
- Families
- Not recommended for children under 12; the humour has adult innuendo.
- Couples
- A fun, different date night for couples.
- Pair with
- Pair with dinner on Halsted Street or a Wrigley Field visit.
- Time needed
- About 2 hours.
Good questions
Where is Trickery?+
At 3453 N Halsted Street in Chicago's Lakeview neighbourhood.
How many people attend?+
A maximum of 36 travellers, with general-admission seating.
Is it suitable for children?+
The operator says it is intended for adults and children under 12 are not recommended.
Can I bring drinks?+
Yes, you can bring your own drinks, and cups and bottle openers are available.
Is the ticket refundable?+
No, the operator says it is non-refundable.
