We attended Trickery on Saturday 04/18/26. Aaron was adept at working with a diverse audience to include them and maintain control of his performance in a very intimate setting. Because it's BYOB you'll get the 20-somethings that feel they have to get loaded beforehand and then act the fool while attending (do you hear that "Neil"? No one wants the focus on you acting like it was your first experience with alcohol) but Aaron was skilled at bypassing them without causing tension or escalating bad behavior. Aaron's attitude is one of someone who has worked hard to make this little venture work, and he deserves respect and recognition for his obvious commitment and work ethic. His act included variations of tricks performed by other magicians, with his own twists. He is an expert at sleight of hand and distraction, which is considerably more difficult in a room about the size of an average residential living-room. He had an appropriate sense of humor aligned with an audience coming to Boystown, an overtly gay neighborhood in Chicago (if you're not familiar). However he wasn't garish, flaming, flamboyant, or offensive; he managed a perfect balance of innuendo humor and audience engagement without being cheap or ingenuine. The snarky one-liners will likely go over your young kids' heads (although bring them to an early show, your 9 year old doesn't belong in Boystown at 10 pm on a weekend), and he carries himself with class avoiding the use of profanity or graphic terms. Again, I can't overstate that his tricks were amazing, impressive, and captivating - as magic should be. You leave the show shaking your head and wondering how it's done - which truly makes it "magic". You would be hard-pressed to spend $36.36/person for an hour of live entertainment that can match Aaron's performance. Pro-tip: If you're driving there you will need to use an app to reserve parking, as there aren't garages like downtown Chicago and every street is filled with so many signs there's no way you will return and find your car not-towed or not-ticketed. Chicago does this on purpose to generate revenue; you'll see "street cleaning" on Tuesday from xx hour to xx hour, no parking when snow is over 2 inches OR any time from Dec 1 through April 1, loading zone, 15 minute stopping/standing with flashers, no parking, residential permit zone only, bike lanes, bus stop restrictions, etc. If you find street parking and think you've beaten the system, think again. Nobel Prize Laureates, Rhodes Scholars, Ivy League PhDs, Mensa members - you can meet them all at Chicago Central Auto Pound retrieving their vehicles. Stephen Hawking couldn't drive, but if he could and he parked in that neighborhood all the quantum mechanics in the world wouldn't make his towed car reappear from the Chicago Parking space-time continuum. The nice thing is if you do reserve parking and give yourself enough time you can walk to many, many restaurants and bars in the area that are open even after the 10 pm show ends. Thank you Aaron for a wonderful experience, you made my wife's birthday memorable for both of us. read more

I've attended this show twice now and really enjoyed it both times. It's always a great experience. He takes time to thank everyone for coming and even asks how you heard about the show, which makes it feel very personal and welcoming. He's genuinely nice and engaging. I plan to come at least once a year. I also love having a local, neighborhood option instead of having to go downtown to see similar acts. read more

Trickery - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Aaron was amazing! The show was hilarious, impressive, & perfectly involves the audience without making any viewer the butt of a joke. We've lived nearby for years and finally made our way to a show and couldn't recommend it more to visitors and neighbors, alike. read more

Miracles... that's one way to describe them. While my mind (read: mental health) was stuck in the Pits of Sarclacc, this review got pushed to the back burner on the second page of my Yelp drafts. It's been more than a few hot minutes, so please bear with me as I remove the cobwebs from my memories. As far as magic shows go, Trickery presents a unique experience. The setting is small and intimate, bringing the magic, and, who could forget, Hoppy the Psychic Wonder Bunny, closer to you! As for the tricks, some of them resembled the quintessential acts a magician might perform. However, I felt that as awesome as they were, if performed on Penn & Teller's Fool Us, the duo would know how it was done before the trick even began. Then came the miracles... these were original and amazing! These are tricks the likes of which I've never seen before, and I haven't the foggiest how they're done. Penn & Teller might know, because of how magical that duo is, but it would take a lot more thinking on their part. Kudos also to Aaron the presenter, for being entertaining, engaging, and fun! If you want big stage magic, fly to Vegas and see Copperfield. If you want something inexpensive, fun, family-friendly, and where you aren't half a football field away, you won't be disappointed with Trickery. I'll even go as far as to say if I have friends or family visiting who have an interest in seeing a magic show, Trickery would be at the top of my list. read more

Soo worth the hour and drive. This was a very entertaining show with fabulous tricks. Him and Steve (lol) did a great job. We loved the audience participation that was encouraged. I would definitely bring friends back for this. read more

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This was fantastic. It was hilarious and worked for the whole family so well. We took our kids and they loved the magic and most of the inappropriate jokes went over their heads but had me and my husband full on cackling, Excellent show and highly recommend! read more

We went with a large group for my birthday and everyone had a blast, it was so much fun! Aaron was super funny and kept the audience engaged the whole time. I still can't figure out how he completed some of his tricks. Highly recommend!! Also shout out to Steve, his assistant! read more

High recommend going to a show here. Was impressed and entertained the entire time. It was my first magic show and had such a good time. The tricks were new and fresh. Aaron is hilarious and really connects with the crowd. Everyone in the room was laughing, making the ambiance amazing. I would 100% recommend going to a show here. It's almost like a comedy show too! The jokes are meant for a more mature audience. And it's BYOB! read more

Trickery - The image shows a small performance stage with dark curtains as the backdrop. On the stage, there is an ornate carved wooden table and a matching chair, both with intricate detailing. A small box and a bottle are placed on the chair, and a hat with a card on top is positioned on the table. The stage is lit with blue lighting, creating a moody atmosphere. In the foreground, a person is seated with their legs crossed, wearing sneakers and holding a drink, suggesting an audience member at a magic or comedy show. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a fun adult friendly magic show! Not only is the place BYOB, but you also get seated in a small area and feel like you're so close to the magic. Highly recommend going early when doors open to grab good seats especially if you're with a group as seating is a bit difficult due to limited space. The show itself was entertaining, capturing, and hilarious throughout. Would definitely recommend to anyone for a date night or a small group hang if you're looking to do something different in the city!! read more

Mr. Aaron Rabkin! We just wanted to pop in and again thank you for the wonderful time we had at your show with our two great nieces! You are a kind person anddddd a true showman!! Enjoy your future shows...your audiences will for sure!!! Joy and Penny Everyone! Go to this SHOW! It is fabulous! The Atmosphere is fabulous and Mr. Rabkin makes you laugh AND be amazed at his MAGIC!!! FIVE STARS all around! read more

Such an incredible experience! I have actually been multiple times. I bring friends whenever they visit and have even brought both of my parents. Everyone has loved the show. Aaron does a great job getting the entire audience involved and keeping everyone laughing and entertained. My dad still talks about one of the tricks to this day. I would highly highly highly recommend. Plus an added bonus is it's BYOB, so bring a little cooler and have some fun! read more

Amazing show! Had lots of laughs and lots of magic- 10/10 recommend! This was my first magic show and my jaw was on the floor almost the whole show:) read more

Aaron is simply incredible! I came to the show with my family - we all left laughing and talking about how wonderful it was! We gushed over the magic and mind-bending that happened at the Trickery! The environment was cozy and made for a great time had by all! I would highly recommend this for a fun night out with friends and family! read more

Our group of 4 attended a show at The Trickery while in town over Memorial Day Weekend. We all had a great time laughing, seeing the magic and mingling in the lobby after the show with the gentleman who owns the theater! I would recommend this show to anyone in the area and looking for something fun to do! read more

136 Yelp reviews that are all 5 stars? That's the first time that I've seen that on Yelp! Based on my recent experience though, I'm adding to that to make it 137 5-star reviews because Trickery absolutely deserves it. Aaron did a phenomenal job of making it an engaging and entertaining experience throughout the show! I almost guarantee that you'll leave this show with at least one time thinking, "how did he do that?!" There is a good variety of magic tricks for all ages, and he has a great sense of humor that will definitely make you laugh multiple times. Best of all, the tickets are very reasonably priced at less than $35/person after tax. I definitely recommend this hidden gem! read more

Aaron was a blessing ! Cheered us up and stimulated our brains . This brilliant one man show was sensational . We have seen magic all over the world and he ranks very very , very high . Especially since he does it alone . Charm comedy fast moving surprises variety amazing magic and psychic stuff cozy and warm environment super duper clean byob cute bathroom drinks and snacks reasonably priced small venue which is usually a premium price such a humble , warm man Yes there is content that may not be expected , however he's brilliant and witty and the magic more than makes up for the sexual innuendos My boyfriend & I were so impressed we plan to tell everyone to go Great surprise event for a significant person in your life or a birthday date ! What a great night read more

Great one man show in a small cozy space. Very fun and engaging. Would definitely come again. Good activity to bring out of town visitors.

What a fun show! We sat in the front row and had the most amazing time. The magic was truly amazing and there's a ton of audience engagement. BYOB was a fun perk, will definitely be back! read more

Trickery - An intimate performance space features a small stage with velvet curtains and a neon sign overhead that reads 'Where The Magic Happens.' The stage is lit with colored lighting, and there are chairs arranged in front for viewers. The venue has dark walls decorated with framed pictures and certificates, creating a theatrical atmosphere suitable for a magic or comedy show. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

If I could leave one star I would. Was not 2 hours, was the cheapest worst cringiest "magic" imaginable by the cringiest "magical" ever. Bad adult humor that forces the audience to participate like an insult comic since it only seats about 20 people. Performer is also the doorman and sole worker which is a horrible idea, humiliated me in front of everyone by ignoring me when I was trying to get in, because he couldn't stand up like a man and say that he expects everyone to get in this imaginary line. What did it even matter? These reviews are not to be taken seriously and sound like paid bots, don't go! read more

Seriously amazing, if you need a change of scenery or entertainment for the night COME to this show. The magician is so cool and personable. Highly recommend read more

Trickery - The image shows a small, vintage-style stage with red velvet curtains tied back, revealing a white upholstered bench with ornate wooden legs. The stage is decorated with warm, yellow wall-mounted lights and a dark backdrop, creating an intimate atmosphere. To the right, there is a dark cabinet with decorative items, and a small television or monitor. The room has dark walls and ceiling, with a few vintage-style light fixtures, suggesting a cozy, theatrical environment. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! We had so much fun and the tricks had our mouths open the whole time. Couldn't recommend more for a date night or going with friends. We had missed the show we purchased because of snow and Aaron was so helpful with letting us reschedule so we didn't miss the magic. BYOB and he has treats and drinks available for purchase too. Just an awesome experience overall. read more

Call me a pride but I signed up for a magic show not a sexual ineudo filled show. Don't get me wrong the magic tricks were neat but I felt so out of place with the male gay jokes... especial with my 12 yr old daughter. Before coming I did read a review of a guy stating he felt the show was inappropriate but Aaron came back stating it was pg humor - no def R. Blue balls, stocking things in butt holes, him putting on a jock strap, gagging jokes, deep throating a long balloon...the lost goes on an on. Def for the 16 or even 18+ crowd and def for to people who are into these kind of jokes...which I am not. Thanks but no thanks read more

I was skeptical at first but it quickly dissipated by the pure joy of the show, the quick and funny humor, and the handsome host. Such a fun night and experience - a true creative talent, doing what he loves and it shows. read more

Came for a date night. I loved how cozy and intimate the space was. It was a quite diverse crowd even in age. The place was BYOB and the show lasts long enough to finish a drink or two. Absolutely hilarious & entertaining. Very well done one man show. Would recommend for anyone looking for something fun and different to do! read more

Trickery - Audience members are seated in a small, intimate theater with red velvet curtains and decorative drapes framing the stage. The stage is lit with colorful lighting, and a magician's table is visible at the center. The audience appears engaged, with some leaning forward and others taking photos or videos. The setting suggests a private, adult-oriented magic show in a cozy venue. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Super funny and entertaining! Magic was amazing! Aaron is a terrific guy. He went way above and beyond in talking to me and my family, and taking pictures with us. He even let me show him a card trick and acted like he didn't know how I did it. I strongly recommend the show to everyone! read more

Aaron and his show exceeded any and every expectation. Can't wait to take more people in my life to Trickery-- what a gem! Go and see him. Like, immediately. This man is pure joy. read more

10/10 fantastic show - what a great way to spend an evening. Aaron is not only a great magician but a great performer, and the show had everyone clapping and cheering throughout. Cannot recommend enough. read more

My friend had booked a Sat afternoon private event for a birthday at the Trickery. The place is cozy and intimate. There's definitely a moody, mysterious vibe. One room is sort of the "lounge" and off to the left lies a smaller room with a rows of seating for the show. Good tongue and cheek entertainment - jokes and all! Check out the room near the bathroom, in fact, there's a lot of little fun photo spots and novelty in this small space. read more

We were visiting Chicago this past weekend to celebrate my teenage son's birthday. He has always enjoyed magic, so I thought I would surprise him and his sister with tickets to see Trickery. They both LOVED it! Aaron is energetic, funny, and engaging. The tricks are great in this fast-paced show, but what makes this show really special is Aaron's stage presence and personality. He kept the energy level high throughout the hour-ish run time. I would highly recommend this show to anyone looking for a fun night out in Chicago. As a side note, the ticket prices are so reasonable that when my business-minded son happened to see the price on our electronic ticket after the show, he informed me that he thought Aaron should triple his price immediately. :-) read more

This show was so much fun! Aaron was great' The magic blew my mind, and we really enjoyed the ambiance.

The show is very fun and "magical". An interesting combination to make magic show to be funny. The magician/owner/hostess/etc has a great sense of humor, nice, friendly and also has great magic skill. I'm glad I came and strongly recommend watching the show!! read more

LOVED IT This was one of my highlights from visiting Chicago this past weekend. Not a huge production, but more of an intimate style (smaller audience of about 30) which made it more engaging. Comedy & magic show in one, no regrets about booking one, was entertained the full hour & impressed with the Aaron's wit, humor, & TRICKERY. We found parking using SpotHero. It's BYOB, and some water/soft drinks are available for purchase - a vibe for sure. read more

Trickery - The image features a neon sign displaying the phrase "Where The Magic Happens" in cursive script, illuminated against a dark background. Below the sign, a doorway with curtains is visible, suggesting an entrance to a performance or entertainment space. The surrounding area is dimly lit, with some faint lighting and framed pictures on the walls, indicating an indoor venue with a cozy, intimate atmosphere. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Highly recommended this show!!! The magic is great and it's really funny. It's a one man show and considering he is doing it all on his own it's really great. He is a great down to earth guy and talks to you before and after the show. The venue is a small with maybe 30 person seating. This is great because there are no bad seats in the house. Im a big fan of magic and have been to a lot of different magic shows and this show is great. Love how it's part comedy and part magic. 100% recommended you go!! 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!

Small intimate magic that definitely makes you go what? How? Lots of interaction with the crowd and super humorous jokes! This is definitely an adult show but it is great humor. Would recommend to all of my friends! read more

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

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

Hi I'm a 11 year old named isla I loved this place.I went on my birthday, and boy was it memorable!!!! The magic tricks were amazing and I got to interact with the magic!!! I also loved the merch to!! It was WOWOWWWOWOWOWOOW I reccomended the magnet read more

The yelp ratings speak for themselves, Aaron puts on an incredible show!! We were looking for something different to do for my birthday weekend and my girlfriend found the show on eventbrite so we thought we would check it out. It is a very small venue that fits about 30 people. Everything is very well thought out including the decorations in the entry area and the bathroom. It is byob so we brought a pack of high noons and enjoyed those with the show. Aaron is absolutely hilarious as well as being an impressive magician. We were laughing the entire time! We will definitely be back soon! read more