Not every family wants to spend three days in museums and battlefields, and The Wagsters Magic Theatre is the best answer in Williamsburg to a free evening or a wet afternoon. It is a dedicated magic theatre run by the husband-and-wife magicians Brandon and Hannah Wagster, who have been performing in Williamsburg since 2022. The theatre reopened in July 2025 in a larger home at 1430 High Street, a 7,500-square-foot space that seats 125 guests. The show, called Magic Happens, now runs as two acts rather than one, and the website lists it at about 90 minutes. The stage sits at floor level rather than being raised, so audience members can join the performers on stage, which makes the show more interactive and more accessible than a traditional theatre. The theatre also has a shop open outside show times and a photo corner with a mural. On the show is rated 5.0 from about 356 reviews, and it is described as lasting two hours with the booking and seating time included. It suits families with children, couples after dinner and anyone who enjoys close-up magic.
How it works
You book a seat for a date and time, and the theatre confirms details in your booking. The two-act show runs about 90 minutes according to the theatre’s website, and the booking page describes a two-hour experience once arrival and seating are included, so allow a little extra. Show times vary through the week and the season, so check the dates that appear for your trip rather than assuming a fixed schedule. Seating is limited to 125, so popular weekend and holiday dates can sell out.
What to expect
Brandon and Hannah perform illusions, comedy and audience participation, and the floor-level stage makes it easy for volunteers to join them. The mood is meant to be warm and lighthearted, and the 5.0 rating from hundreds of reviews suggests it delivers. Expect to be invited to take part if you sit near the front, and let children know in advance if they might be nervous about being picked. Ask about access arrangements when you book if you need step-free entry.
Making the most of it
It works well as a counterweight to history days, because it needs no preparation and delights children who have had enough of walking tours. Pair it with an early dinner at Merchants Square or a visit to a local ice cream shop, and arrive 15 to 20 minutes early so you can browse the shop and find seats.
The theatre also runs holiday programming and has a party room for rent, so check its calendar if you are visiting in December. Photography and recording rules vary between shows, so follow the staff’s instructions.
What to expect
The experience
A two-act magic show in a 125-seat theatre, with a floor-level stage where audience members can join the performers.
Best time
A wet afternoon or an evening when you want something relaxed after a day of history.
How long
About 90 minutes on stage, and about two hours with arrival and seating.
Tips
Book early for weekends and holidays, arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the show and prepare children for the chance of being invited on stage.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children, couples and groups who enjoy close-up magic and audience participation.
- Families
- A relaxed, interactive show that suits most school-age children, and the pricing is aimed at families.
- Couples
- A fun, lighthearted evening after dinner at Merchants Square.
- Pair with
- Dinner nearby before the show, or a morning at Jamestown Settlement beforehand.
- Time needed
- About two hours including arrival and seating.
Good questions
How long is the Wagsters Magic Theatre show?+
The theatre’s website lists the two-act show at about 90 minutes, and the booking page describes a two-hour experience including arrival and seating.
Where is the theatre?+
The theatre is at 1430 High Street, Suite 202, in Williamsburg, near Richmond Road. Check your booking for the entrance and parking details.
Who performs?+
The show is performed by the magicians Brandon and Hannah Wagster, who have been performing in Williamsburg since 2022.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, it is a family show and reviewers praise it for children, though audience members may be invited on stage, so prepare younger children for that.
How many seats does the theatre have?+
The theatre seats 125 guests, so popular dates can sell out and booking ahead is wise.
