The Fourth Walsh

Chicago Magic Lounge welcomes back world-renowned magician Ondřej Pšenička in 52 LOVERS.

The magic starts with laundry. At an unassuming laundromat in Andersonville, the spin cycle is set to hocus pocus. Individuals arrive to a small storefront with a wall of washing machines. The lighting is garishly bright in the seemingly forgettable commercial space. On closer observation, a doorknob is nestled among the laundry appliances.

As if straight out of Hogswart, that makeshift door leads to a dimly lit chamber adorned with artifacts, pictures of magicians and a cozy fireplace. Although it appears to be a dead end, another hidden door will open into the glamorous Chicago Magic Lounge. The look is elegant nightclub disguised as a speak-easy. Multiple magicians are interacting with guests table side. Servers are delivering drinks and snacks. The vibe is high levels of amusement and bemusement. This party is already in full swing!

Once sat by the host, we order drinks and wait for the magic folk to notice the newest muggles in the room. A gregarious Jonathan arrives at our table to welcome us with his tricks of rubber bands. He beckons us to contribute the heat from our fingertips to his schtick. Despite our watchful eyes, Jonathan magically twists, unites and divides these ordinary items. Later, the charming Paige approaches us with her Queens card game and encourages us to use our own magical powers to transform cards. It works… but how does it?

The table-side sleight of hand acts is an intimate and fun start leading to the main attraction. Ondřej Pšenička has returned to Chicago as the magician in residence for the summer. The bespectacled and dapper Pšenička is thoroughly entertaining as he describes his entry into magic and fascination with cards. Throughout his show, he will interact with guests. Pšenička will begin with 1-on-1 illusions working up to a grand finale involving the entire audience. The demure Pšenička is quite the showman. He narrates his sorcery with dry humor and a spark of mischief. Pšenička playfully delivers mystifying illusion after illusion. And just when you think it’s over, he’ll rope you in with another spellbinding spectacle.

This summer spend time with 52 LOVERS ….and Pšenička. He’ll enchant you into believing the impossible is possible. The Chicago Magic Lounge is the perfect escape from the heat and into cool deception.    

Running Time: 2 hours includes an intermission

At Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street

Thru August 26

For more information or tickets

Ondřej Pšenička production photos by Martin Večeřa

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