About Us

Illusion Magic Lounge is the result of a shared passion for live performances and the art of magic. Before opening Illusion Magic Lounge, Randy Jr. and Randy Sr. produced magic shows in the LA area at various locations. When the opportunity presented itself to transition from producing periodic magic shows — and instead host a continual series at their own venue, they leapt at the opportunity.

Illusion Magic Lounge is located inside one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Santa Monica — the Central Tower, which dates back to 1929. The theater, initially known as Magicopolis, was built in 1998 by Magician Steve Spill. As Steve grew older, he decided to retire from performing and move away from Los Angeles. He approached the Sinnott Family about taking over the theater, knowing their commitment to the art of magic and strong pedigree within the Los Angeles and broader magic community.

After taking over from Steve, Illusion Wine (as it was known for a brief period) operated until a state-mandated COVID shutdown in March of 2020. Sadly, while closed due to COVID, the theater was heavily damaged by looters during a period of civil unrest in May of 2020. Following this, the Randys banded together to unlock the space’s full potential — embarking on a massive year-long repair and renovation effort. In December of 2022, Illusion Magic Lounge finally reopened where we continue to host events, film screenings, and our signature weekly magic performances in our updated and now upscale facility.

The Illusion Team

Randy Sinnott, Jr.

General Manager (Chief Illusioneer)

Randy Jr. leads operations at Illusion, ensuring both theatrical performances and our lounge amaze and delight each and every guest.

Randy Jr. began performing magic at a young age, first learning a few card tricks for a middle school talent show. After studying at Carnegie Mellon University, Randy led strategic planning and design for a number of software companies.

Randy Jr. is a Past President of the World Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, where he navigated the club through the COVID-19 crisis and led the Castle’s historic reopening in May 2021.

Randy Sinnott, Sr.

Proprietor

Randy Sr.’s love of magic traces back to middle school when he read a biography of Houdini. He is an attorney with nationally recognized expertise in complex litigation.

Randy Sr. retired from the United States Marine Corps at the rank of Colonel after serving combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Randy Sr. is a Past President of the World Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, where he led the organization’s recovery from the devastating 2011 fire.

Ethan Robarts

Lead Theater Technician

Ethan leads our technical team, focusing on both creating brilliant light and soundscapes for our shows, as well as leading projects to enhance our technical capabilities.

Ethan also occasionally performs magic, inviting audiences behind the curtain with his “Magicians’ Technician” character.

Dana Benedict

Theater Technician

Dana works behind the scenes working directly with our magicians and guest performers to make sure they look and sound great on stage.

Dana is also an accomplished singer, songwriter, and dancer. She has produced her show “Alchemy & Poetry” featuring all-original music and her “Twirly the Clown” show at Illusion.

Jack Dagger

Bartender

Jack is here to bring your libacious dreams to life. You’ll often find him behind the bar preparing delightful beverages. Get ready to let his country charm assist in finding you your next drink!

Jack performs often and is known as the “King of Fling” — he is one of the best knife throwers in the world.

Christie

Chef, Bartender, and more!

Christie brings our culinary delights to life from inside our kitchen. You’ll also find her behind the bar fixing up conjured cocktails and generally managing mischief at the theater.

Christie also works behind the scenes in Hollywood, so be sure to ask her about some interesting stories from her past when you see her.

Julz

Bartender

Julz can be found out in the lounge, pouring drinks with a smile. She’ll gladly help you locate your next favorite drinkable treat on our menu.

Julz is an accomplished fire performer and voice actor. She also specializes in crafting custom fire props and enjoys festivals such as Burning Man and Wasteland.

Erika

Ms. Wednesday

Erika is our Wednesday night bartender — keeping our Boobietrap audiences well hydrated for the our signature variety show.

Erika is also an accomplished dancer and chroeograhper. She also is a pretty rockin’ KJ (Karaoke Jockey) and can be caught hosting around town.

Gigi Noree

Fixer of Problems

Gigi supports the theater behind the scenes whenever she’s not flying high as Illusion Magic Lounge’s resident aerialist or organizing events.

You can find her handprints on our graphics and website, backend organization, or supporting facility improvements as needed.