Looking for a fun, cheap night out in Chicago’s Boystown? Than head to 3543 Halstead St. in West Lakeview for a really entertaining night of magic and mischief! Aaron is a fun, engaging host who also happens to be one excellent magician. He’s so funny and witty that if magic doesn’t work out he could have a great career as a stand up comic! And he didn’t disappoint with the tricks and illusions. Some of the tried and true stand-bys are here … the guy in the box, the rope trick, the multiplying balls … but there are many “How the heck did he do that???” moments, particular a final stretch that has to be scene to be believed. So bravo, Aaron. And how could I be remiss to not mention Hoppy The Psychic Bunny, the true star of the show?
The Chicago Trickery space is pretty small … I estimated maybe 30-35 seats, all of which were filled for an 8 PM Saturday performance. This made for a truly intimate experience that strengthened the performer/audience connection. It felt like we were in Aaron’s living room! The crowd was a great mix: two families with young kids (who were having a blast), a couple celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, gay men taking in the show before a Saturday night out in Boystown. Audience participation, of course, is a big part of the show, and Aaron makes everyone feel welcome.
At the top when I said “cheap” I meant ticket prices. $25 is cheap for a show of such high quality. So now you have no excuse. So do yourself a favor and check out Aaron and Hoppy at Chicago Trickery for one of the best magic shows I’ve ever seen!.
Things to know: performances are Thursday at 8 PM, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and 10 PM, and Sunday afternoon at 2 PM. Your best bet is to order tix online, because the place fills up fast. It’s BYOB but you might want to nurse those drinks. There’s only one bathroom, which really piled up after the show.