FAQ
What can I expect from the show?
Spencer presents a unique and intimate experience, geared toward adults. There will be demonstrations of sleight of hand magic, mentalism and danger utilizing heavy audience participation and a healthy dose of sharp wit. This comes together in the form of a 90+ minute comedy magic show that will leave you both laughing and amazed. There is so much interaction between the audience and performer, no two shows are ever alike.
When should I arrive?
We hold shows at 8pm Friday and Saturday and also have 3pm matinees on Saturday. Please arrive NO LATER than 20 minutes prior to showtime!! It allows you to be checked in, seated and order drinks before the show begins. We open doors one full hour before showtime and we encourage you to arrive as early as possible to take in the atmosphere, enjoy your beverages and get settled before the performance begins. A large amount of last minute arrivals delays the start of the show. Late arrivals (5 min past showtime) without prior notification will be denied entry and tickets will be released to standby list. If you know you will be late PLEASE give us notice or your tickets will be released.
This is an intimate setting and a highly interactive experience. Late arrivals are extremely disruptive and negatively impact things for everyone. Please be respectful of the other guests and arrive in a timely manner or communicate with staff in case of emergency/unexpected delays.
IF YOU ARRIVE AT SHOWTIME OR LATER WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU WILL NOT BE ADMITTED & REFUND WON'T BE ISSUED. NOR WILL WE RESCHEDULE YOUR TICKETS. IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE LATE PLEASE CALL AHEAD AND NOTIFY STAFF.
Do you serve food?
We have fantastic drinks, but no food. You are welcome to bring your own food however, it must be consumed before the show or during intermission. There are also a number of restaurants within half a block away.
What kind of drinks do you offer?
We are a full-service bar, we have an extensive selection of fine liquor and a well-rounded menu of drinks to choose from. The current menu can be viewed here Enjoy expertly crafted classic cocktails in a beautiful and richly detailed Art Deco styled bar, straight out of the roaring 20s!
Do I have to buy tickets in advance?
We highly suggest purchasing tickets ahead of time, especially for groups of 4 or more, since we typically sell out (often times 2-3 weeks prior).
We do not sell tickets at the door, this is a presale ticketed event with customized seating. We sometimes have cancellations for shows, if a show you are interested in attending is sold out, place your name on the waitlist on the Eventbrite page however many times you require tickets (ex. if you need 4 tickets put your name down 4 times) and we will contact you about openings.
Please note - purchasing tickets ahead of time does not guarantee seating assignments; it only guarantees that you will have a seat upon arrival. If you supplied us with a group name, you will be seated together but the placement of the seats is determined by the size and number of groups on any given evening.
Are tickets refundable?
No. All sales are final. Once tickets are purchased through Eventbrite you have the option to reschedule if necessary up to 24 hours prior to the event. Just email us at the contact form on this website and we can reschedule to an available date of your choosing.
What is included with my admission?
Admission covers a 90+ minute comedy magic show. You also receive two free drink tickets that can be used for anything off of our extensive menu including top-shelf and specialty cocktails along with anything we can make from our variety of liquor that doesn't happen to fall on our menu at the time. For underage or non-drinkers, we have non-alcoholic options or tickets can also be used to purchase magic merchandise at the show!
Is this a 21+ only event?
We now allow teens 13+ admission. Drink tickets can be used for beverages or magic merchandise. Teens must be accompanied by an adult 21+.
We refer to our show as PG-13 for language and suggestive themes, with the understanding that we are a bar environment, and we cannot always account for how our audiences are going to behave on a particular evening.
At any given time our audiences include people from 13 to 93 with a diverse mix of races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, backgrounds, professions & classes. Our performer & employees take pride in being able to bring all these unique individuals together during the evening.
What can I do if the show I wish to attend is sold out?
Eventbrite offers a standby list which we use to fill seats in the event of cancellations. You can add your name to this list on the Eventbrite website however many times you require tickets (ex. if you need 4 tickets put your name down 4 times)
Where do I park?
There is metered parking along S Charles Street. There is also a lot behind the now closed Shofer's Building on the corner of Hamburg and S Charles St. You should pay an attendant if you are in the right lot. Tell them you are there for the Illusions show. (NOTE: do NOT park in the lot behind CVS you will be towed!) There is also a garage at 40 E West Street.
When are you open and how often do shows occur?
We do shows every Friday at 8pm and Saturday at 3pm and 8pm, unless otherwise specified.
We are available to book for private events, with or without performance any time during the week, including weekends. See our "Book an Event" page for further info to get a quote.
We also ocassionally host special guest performers, kids shows, and events for various holidays.
To keep up to date on special events, we recommend following us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or join our mailing list!
Can I host my corporate event/family reunion/bachelorette party/birthday party/fundraising event at Illusions?
Yes! We are the perfect venue for all manner of events and parties! We love celebrating special days with our customers, and hosting an evening here means your guests have a unique and memorable experience. Please contact us here to book your event!
Can I hire the Magician for my offsite event?
Yes! Spencer Horsman has performed internationally and locally at all manner of corporate, private, and family functions. Including television shows such as America's Got Talent, and touring performances. Contact us on the book an event page to get more info on a customizable performance for your event.
Is there a dress code?
No we do not have an official dress code. Wear what brings you joy.