Fun show, close quarters but not too tight and great audience involvement -magical even...

My wife and I were walking down Halsted on a nice day and we came across Trickery and decided to book a reservation for a future show. The combination of comedy and magic coupled with the audience interaction makes this a special, can't miss experience. Regardless if you're a local or a visitor from out of town, you will have a PHENOMENAL experience. We will be back when we have friends in town. . . my cheeks were sore at the end of the show from laughing and smiling so much! BOUNUS: it's BYOB! read more

Super fun and entertaining show. The magic was top notch with funny jokes and a good pace. The venue was intimate yet comfortable. Very audience friendly. read more

Such a great show!! It takes alot to get me out of the house on a weeknight and I'm so happy I came!

So much fun and the magician was great and entertaining. Had some true wow tricks and moments

My adventure with Trickery began on a Saturday afternoon, the penultimate day of Spring Break. My 8-year old daughter was despondent because she wasn't able to do anything fun for Spring Break while many of her friends and classmates were vacationing and living it up (as much as 8-year olds can). On a lark, I searched for "Fun" in Yelp. (Yes, the same Yelp you are using.) Amongst the search results was something called "Trickery". Now, that sounded intriguing. I figured it would be a museum dedicated to espionage and scam artists. Very interesting. I tapped on the name to find more and I was pleasantly surprised: it was a magic show. Kids love magic shows! I love magic shows! A win-win potential solution! But then questions began to arise and doubt would begin in set in. What type of magic is this? Will it be entertaining enough? Is it suitable for kids? Is it fun for adults? To assuage the flood of questions, I called. A guy identifying as Aaron answered. I asked him point blank: is it suitable for kids? He told me that while folks 12 and above are more than welcome, younger kids do come. In fact, the previous show had a 3-year old and a 5-year old and they had fun. He also added that there is plenty of innuendo which tends to go over kids' heads, so adults have a blast without anything inappropriate for kids. (He was on the car speaker so my daughter later asked, "What's an ammuemdo? What's going to go over my head?) I decided we should go. Tickets were not expensive, especially for Chitown. I found parking very nearby through Spothero. When we got there, a dropdead gorgeous man was close to the entrance. (This is in the heart of Boystown so gorgeous men are everywhere.) We were late but the show hadn't started yet. He confirmed under what name our tickets were under and told us to sit anywhere. The back row was empty, the rest was full, in the very cosy sitting area. Pretty quickly the entire area filled up. A sold-out full-capacity show! Once the show began, the selfsame dropdead gorgeous man came forth, introduced himself as Aaron, and began the show. So this Aaron was handling everything. Almost everything: we can't forget Steven. The show was absolutely, undeniably, outstandingly fun. It was hilarious, it was fun. Oohs and aahs alternated with hearty laughter. Aaron involves the audience, which makes every show different. He even involved my daughter, which I was so grateful for. He's adult-friendly and kid-friendly. My daughter had a blast. She said this was the most fun she's had. She said wanted to come back again. If you're doubting whether to attend, I say: Doubt no more! Get the tickets and be ready to enjoy an absolutely amazing show! Kudos and props to Aaron. read more

We went to the show this weekend and ... IT WAS SO GOOD! I knew it was magic, but did not expect the comedy. It was great. It's a quick hour show, but it was perfectly enough. It's great for a birthday, date night, any reason really. Go watch it! Highly recommend! read more

Trickery - a living room with a couch and a picture - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Loved this show! Tricks wowed us and so many great jokes interwoven into magic. Magician was also so kind and welcoming! Would definitely go back! read more

This was an amazing place! Went on a Friday 9pm showing and it was a packed house. It's BYOB and about 20-30 seats in front of a small stage. It's a one man show. I was afraid it was going to be too cheesy bc it is a comedy/magic show but it was a good amount of humor and the magic wasn't too bad. Would come again read more

A friend recommended Trickery and WHAT A SHOW!! It's a small, intimate setting that's fun, interactive, and hysterical. Aaron's magic coupled w/ well timed comedy made this show a CAN'T MISS! Do yourself a favor and check it out, you will not regret it! Also, it's a hop/skip/jump from Wrigleyville read more

It's tough to give a review without giving away too much, but I'll try by beginning with the fact that this was one of the best magic shows I've ever seen. Aaron Rabkin, hailing from the esteemed Junior Program of the Magic Castle in Hollywood, is a one-man whirlwind of likability, humor, and astonishing skill. But his interactions with his Stage Manager Steve and Hoppy the Psychic Bunny are worth the price of admission alone. And while all his magic is solid, his finale combines stage magic, escapology, mentalism and more in a breathtaking and perfect conclusion. I've seen every magic venue in Chicago, and before the show (during his friendly and welcoming meet-and-greet), Mr. Rabkin joked that I saved the best for last. He was right. Highest POSSIBLE Recommendation read more

We have been twice now. The show is excellent: funny and intriguing! Fantastic magic show! Very small venue with a great vibe.

Amazing experience. Worth spending money!! He handles everything from opening up his entrance, arranging chairs to greeting everyone. Great ambiance. I'd definitely recommend checking the show read more

Trickery - Must see!!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Super fun. We took our twelve year old twins. We all liked the show and I would recommend for a funny entertaining low key night out.

Hands down the best comedy magic show in Chicago! Genuinely great magic tricks with such a funny comedic perspective. small and intimate venue. BYOB. hospitality was 10/10 and so were the decorations. would definitely come back and recommend to a friend. read more

We decided to come here for a date night and I'm so glad we did. The theatre is small (25-30 person capacity) which means there's not a bad seat in the place. I was quite impressed that Aaron does the entire show (even checking tickets at the door) by himself. He creates a fun, comfortable atmosphere quickly with the way he engages the audience members, and his witty humor is an excellent add on to the magic tricks he performs. We spent the whole show laughing while simultaneously trying to figure out how in the world he just did whatever he did. It's a ton of fun and I highly recommend it. We found parking at a public garage that was about a five minute walk from the theatre. It's BYOB and there was also a small selection of soft drinks and bottled water available as well as cups and bottle openers if needed. read more

This experience was so cool! A smaller production (about 25-30 people)/show and a one man (plus Steve ) production! This hour long experience will have you laughing the whole time. It's an array for magic tricks performed and is really interactive with the audience! We still don't understand how he performed this sorcery!! I highly recommend buying tickets for a fun weekend event! The space itself is really cool- decorated like an old time magic production with candy, soda and water available for purchase. This place is BYOB (wine opener provided!). read more

Trickery - Last act of the night! Still have no idea how he performed these magic tricks. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a night! Checked out a show back in October so I'm a little rusty but I'll do my best. I can't remember the owner/magician's name but he was completely charming, committed, sneaky (a good thing!) and uproariously funny! This is a must-do for anyone who wants to be entertained. Cute venue too! read more

Make you a favor and go! Best magic show ever seen, it's like magic and comedy Love it! I'll go again read more

Trickery - Magic - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Went with our family for daughters birthday and had a GREAT time. very funny and at first thought it was going to be more of a comedy but the magic is awesome. there was a trick at the end we talked about the rest of the night. not a show for kids as there's some definite adults only humor. also, BYOB. if your thinking about going, do it. read more

He was extremely funny and entertaining. The length of the show was perfect. Very intimate setting. Only about like 35 seats at most. The show usually sells out. I'm so glad we got to go. Was hoping to go before the pandemic. read more

I have been on a magic kick for the past couple months I was looking for something entertaining to do this weekend. I have a friend that we always try to find something new. This was the perfect choice. I didn't know what to expect, I didn't read any reviews I was just looking for another magic show. I haven't enjoyed myself this much in ages. This magician had a great sense of timing , and a great sense of humor. He draws the audience in and just makes you laugh and laugh. . I highly highly recommend this show to everyone , especially if you're just looking for a great time and what I call "brain candy". read more

Aaron was incredible! The magic show was an intimate, fun experience! I planned it as a date night for my boyfriend and I - and we had a great time! The vibe was very chill and it's BYOB. Aaron was charming, and kept us on our toes all the time! Highly recommend!!! read more

Trickery Chicago is pure fun at an intimate Magic Parlor in the heart of "Boystown." I love seeing magic and laughing and Trickery Chicago delivered. I was with friends I'd not seen in years and we all loved the space, performer, and show. The theatre seats only 35 guests so magic happens literally under your nose. Comedian/magician Arron is a personable host, and an energetic charismatic entertainer. The interactive hour show is fast-paced and builds from fun tricks to astounding miracles. During the show you'll be introduced to Hoppy, a mindreading bunny (sentient -if stuffed) and you'll witness Elle the pink elephant appear and vanish. It's clear Aaron is a highly skilled professional who loves his job, theatre, and audiences. His vitality is infectious and he works hard at making impossible things happen, just so you'll leave scratching your head in wonder when it's over. This is entertainment for grown-ups so leave the kids at the hotel, there are some bawdy moments and clever innuendo. The tiny East Lakeview hidden gem offers up a lot of warmth and entertainment at a reasonable cost. You may even BYOB if you like to imbibe. read more

A friend of mine loves magic and sleight of hand tricks, so when I saw this trending online I sent him a link and we got a group together. Didn't look at reviews. Saw a few blurbs of information online and watched a YouTube link or two and was sold. The venue is intimate with an audience size of about twenty seats. We took up about 60% and the others were filled with walk-ins. The location is found on Halsted and the venue allows for byob. The venue sells some mixers - the usual soda drinks and water, but does not have cups. If driving, street parking can be found easily. If you enter and find that it is "unattended" don't be shy. Look around, it's a small place. Be curious. Also if the neon calls out to you, go in there.. And if wanting a souvenir look to the display case. Some neat magic tricks that you might recall seeing in your childhood. The theatrics is a one magician show. They are engaging, personable, charming and funny. The magicians exemplary techniques will engage your interests. They love compliments and accepts tips as well. You will thoroughly enjoy. There were constant oohs and aaahs. Laughs and amazed roars. There is some audience participation, though nothing to be shy about. Everyone feeds into the fun and it's smiles all around. The show can change with new acts added. Best to check out their website for updates and new events. read more

1 of 1.BYOB and an awesome magic show can't be beat. Very highly recommended. Aaron is a great magician and a true showman.

Aaron and hoppy the psychic wonder bunny are a fabulous duo! We can't explain the miracles that occurred and we do know a trickery show is a great time! We went for date night and it would be a total blast to bring a group of friends to celebrate in this intimate theatre space. The magic is fun and his wit razor sharp. We highly recommend this treasure in Boystown! read more

See all

Great night out, highly recommend the show, very funny and entertaining. The magic and illusions are great.

What a super fun find in Lakeview. I am not surprised to see a plethora of five star ratings, at all. The Trickery is a small storefront theater venue (like literally, you can see the stage from the sidewalk). Almost a little too small as the room and seating is kinda cramped...but just cozy up with your friends. The show itself is the perfect mix of magic, fun and funny. The magician was stellar but gotta give props to the bunny as well. Don't forget the bunny! Price is on point and the place is BYOB if you chose to imbibe during the show, which we did. Don't judge. If you're looking for a unique night out this is your place. read more

I went with several friends to Trickery on a Saturday evening. We were blown away! Aaron was so talented and funny! This was such a fun and different evening; will definitely be back!! read more

Let's start by saying, I almost matrix tipped my chair over at the finale. Aaron is a hoot. Aka a freaky magic witch man. He is a one man show who cracked my shit up- Despite a couple of heckling peeps in the front row. Vibe of his space is on key with tons of velvet & a perfectly placed uv lamp room. Mad jokes and knows his crowd. Read my mind and had a wine opener and cups available on the house and super cheap snacks & bottled water. By the way, apologies for my mom yelling "f*cking freak" as we were leaving... that was an endearing statement meant to hype you up. Thanks for a good time! read more

Trickery - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Aaron was so funny and great, definitely recommend for a date night! I had so much fun :)

This was such an awesome show! To be honest, we weren't expecting a magic show when we went, but it was a HELL of a show! Soooo good! It was an intimate setting and Aaron's interacted so well with the audience! He had a fantastic stage presence and the show was quality. I was involved in one of the tricks that had a paintball. It was legit, I got my paintball back. Pics included for proof, lol read more

Trickery - a person holding a small pumpkin on a stick - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Hands down one of the coolest shows I've been to in a while. Aaron is so dope, makes it a really memorable evening. Awesome balance of really cool tricks, and really solid comedy and crowd work. Absolutely coming back when we have friends/family visiting. Do yourself a favor and check this out asap. Guarantee you'll have a blast. read more

Had an absolutely amazing time. Great date night idea. Be ready to laugh and see some awesome magic. This show is BYOB. Will be recommending to all my homies. read more

A must see in Chicago! I'm so glad I found out about this place! Aaron is hilarious and a natural entertainer, he's quick witted and very talented! Small quiet setting gets you up close to everything which is a huge plus and just adds to the entire experience. The place is amazingly decorated, (bathrooms are a must) he's wonderful at engaging everyone in the audience in participation without being over the top! Worth every penny, there's a reason he has a perfect 5 star rating. Great for groups of friends, nights out, byob! :) thanks Aaron, amazing job! read more

Aaron is a phenomenal magician and really good at crowd work. I would recommend this show for anyone in the mood for illusions and an engaging hour or so of entertainment! read more

The venue is small (and cozy) but the show is huge and wonderfully entertaining for young (cute props) and old (cute side jokes for the hip crowd!) Aaron is a genius at magic and comedy and his high energy makes the show fly by and leave you wanting more. We would definitely go again and still be amazed and awed!! Great evening. read more

I had a great time. Me and my husband went for date night. We're in our 40's it was so much fun. Super funny. I highly recommend this place. read more

This show was absolutely amazing and blew my expectations out of the water! Aaron is incredibly talented and funny, the vibes of the venue are swanky and intimate, and the show was fantastic! Plus it's byob- what more could you ask? I would absolutely recommend catching a show at Trickery to locals or to those passing through Chicago! read more