Illusion Magic Lounge

Rich Manley's Diary of Magic
2024-11-24 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
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Rich Manley’s Diary of Magic:  In this highly interactive display of storytelling and magic, adventure-illusionist Rich Manley takes audiences on a thrilling journey inspired by his late grandfather’s legendary journal. Diary of Magic blends mind-bending illusions with real-life adventures across all seven continents, from the jungles of Sri Lanka to the ruins of Peru. Prepare to be amazed and inspired in this unforgettable exploration of magic and the wonders of our world.

Venue Description:

The show takes place at The Illusion Magic Lounge, an intimate 150-seat theater designed for an immersive experience. With top-tier lighting and sound, every seat offers a clear view of the mesmerizing stage action. For those seeking an elevated experience, a separate VIP Room awaits, offering exclusive perks and an opportunity to meet and hang out with Rich.

Showtime: Sunday, November 24, 4PM

Tiered Pricing:

VIP Experience (LIMITED)

Premium VIP seating

Access to the exclusive VIP lounge after the show for a private meet-and-greet/hang with Rich Manley

Complimentary drinks in the VIP lounge

Early entry to the theater and lounge

Photos with talent and guests welcomed

Have the option to participate in a one-on-one illusion with Rich Manley

General Admission

Price: $25

General admission seating

About Rich Manley

Rich Manley blends his passion for adventure and illusion to create a truly unique story telling experience. His journey began at age 10 when he learned sleight of hand from his grandfather, a surgeon and magician. Since then, Rich has captivated audiences worldwide, performing at elite venues like Hollywood’s Magic Castle and shows like Masters of Illusion. His extreme travel adventures—including scuba diving, black water rafting, cliff climbing, and swimming with sharks—have garnered him over 350,000 Instagram followers.

Inspired by his grandfather’s personal travel journal, Rich has explored the globe, studying ancient cultures, archaeology, and philosophy. These experiences fuel the illusions in “Diary of Magic,” where he shares stories of mystery and wonder drawn from his adventures. With breathtaking stunts, interactive performances, and a touch of humor, Rich’s family-friendly show promises an unforgettable journey into the world of magic and adventure.

Through his compelling journeys and mystical engagements, Rich Manley not only celebrates the planet’s wonders but also inspires a worldwide community to preserve our natural heritage. His life’s work underscores the transformative impact of exploring diverse cultures.

As an adventurer, Rich continues to push boundaries both on and off stage, blending storytelling with mesmerizing illusions.

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Don Tabak Crime Scene Live
2024-11-24 19:00 - 20:30
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Exclusive Limited Engagement

Join us for a limited-run special event: “Crime Scene Live”: Step into the mind of renowned homicide detective Don Tabak and experience the thrill of unraveling Hollywood’s most notorious cases. With over 100 homicide cases to his credit. Don’s department dealt with numerous high profile murder cases including those of John Belushi, the Manson murders, Biggie Smalls, and Nicole Simpson, Tabak draws you into a world where crime and storytelling collide. This immersive show culminates in an interactive ‘Who Dun It,’ where you become part of the investigation, using unique clues to solve the case and uncover the truth.

Don Tabak is not just another storyteller; he is a highly experienced detective with a number of years of homicide experience, having been part of some of the most sensational investigations in Los Angeles history. His department has been affiliated with high-profile cases including the Manson murders, the Hillside Strangler, the OJ Simpson case, and many more.

Venue Description:

The show takes place at The Illusion Magic Lounge, an intimate 150-seat theater designed for an immersive experience. With top-tier lighting and sound, every seat offers a clear view of the mesmerizing stage action. For those seeking an elevated experience, a separate VIP Room awaits, offering exclusive perks and an opportunity to talk 1-on-1 with Don.

Sunday, November 24, 7PM

Tiered Pricing:

VIP Experience (LIMITED)

Price: $55

Includes:

Premium VIP seating

Access to the exclusive VIP lounge after the show for a private meet-and-greet/hang with Tabak

Complimentary drinks at the after-show VIP lounge

Early entry to the theater and lounge

Photos with talent and guests welcomed

General Admission

Price: $30

Includes:

General admission seating

Early entry to the theater lounge

About Don Tabak

https://www.dontabak.net

A former Los Angeles Police Detective, Don has investigated corporate corruption, payment card industry fraud and virtually all aspects of criminal conduct. As a Homicide Detective he solved 100% of the murder cases assigned to him. He has presented to over five hundred police and business organizations during his 23 year long career, 13 years of which were highlighted by intense work in the Homicide Division.

During his lectures and speeches, Don guides businesses by providing information on best practices to avoid litigation and financial losses. He also offers great insight into issues relating to hostile workplace environments including sexual harassment and worker’s compensation abuse.

Don is a member of the International Association of Financial Crime Investigators (IAFCI) and regularly lectures to IAFCI members and other law enforcement agencies across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Attendees at Don’s lectures have praised him for his valuable insight and his keen sense of humor, adding that his presentations are not only informative but enjoyable as well.

As a nationally recognized criminal analyst, Don can be seen giving commentary on the Fox Network, CNN and various crime shows, where he provides thoughtful insight into current major crimes and trends.

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Nader Hanna & Arthur Trace - Magic by the Sea
2024-11-29 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-11-30 19:00 - 21:00
BUY TICKETS!

Your evening of magic and mystery!

Get ready to unlock a full evening of magical entertainment for your enjoyment. Our unique venue provides you the opportunity to see multiple types of magic in a single evening. You’ll be dazzled by our ambient, strolling magicians while you enjoy a refreshing beverage. Entering our 150-seat theater, you’ll see even more magicians dazzle you with mind-bending illusions on our grand 54-foot stage. And to finish out your enchanting evening, our intimate Court Room space hosts a formal close up show — a unique format rarely seen outside the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

Join us and find out why we are Santa Monica’s Most Magical Experience!

Upgrade for our exclusive VIP Experience

Looking to get the most out of your magical evening? We offer a limited number of VIP Experiences for each show. You’ll start off your VIP Experience with a welcome glass of champagne (or non-alcoholic alternative) and enjoy our strolling magic with other guests. When it’s time to head into the theater, we’ve reserved the best seats for our VIP’s Experience. And for our unique formal close-up show, you’ll once again have reserved seats waiting for you. Simply put, this is the best way to experience a magical evening out in Downtown Santa Monica.

NOTE: We have limited VIP availability to preserve the quality of the VIP Experience.

About our Performers

Nader Hanna

https://www.themastermentalist.com

Nader Hanna is a professional mind reader and hypnotist based in Los Angeles. Known for his mind-bending feats of ESP and hypnosis, Nader has a unique ability to engage his audience in a way that will leave them in wonder and awe. He has performed at corporate events for companies such as NBC Universal and for major celebrities and film directors like John Landis, Joe Dante and Tippi Hedren. This Master Mentalist’s mind bending show is an exhilarating journey into the impossible. Couple that with his professionalism, warmth and flexibility and Nader Hanna is an ideal choice for intimate group parties, trade show booths, and corporate events.

Arthur Trace

https://www.arthurtrace.com

Hailed by the Society of American Magicians as “one of the most creative acts in the world of magic today,” Arthur Trace is only the eighth magician in the history of magic to be awarded the International Brotherhood of Magicians Gold Medal. To this day he is also only the second American to win a FISM award in the category of Manipulation at the World Championships of Magic. In 2024 the Academy of Magical Arts voted Arthur as The Stage Magician of The Year for his exemplary performances at The Magic Castle.

Recognition from his peers has brought Arthur many exciting opportunities such as national television appearances in seven countries, a tour of China with the Wuqiao Circus Festival, and a starring role in Monte-Carlo Magic Stars at the Princess Grace Theatre in Monaco. His unique talents have also been featured in The Magical Mystery Show at the Wintergarten Varieté in Berlin, The House of Magic in Macau, and Supermagic at Teatro Olimpico in Rome.

Delighting and astounding even the most skeptical of audiences, each year he brings his artful deception to countless events worldwide. It’s no wonder why the Chicago Tribune called him “one of magic’s bona fide superstars!”

When not touring, Arthur lives in Los Angeles with his wife Melissa and beagle Ava.

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High Note Comedy LA
2024-12-05 19:30 - 21:30
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Lineup for December 5:

Andy Kindler

Tori Piskin

John Hastings

Leanne Velednitsky

Max Beasley

Olivia Flood-Wylie

Enjoy beer, wine, soju cocktails and a hilarious night out with High Note Comedy!

Located at the Illusion Magic Lounge in Downtown Santa Monica, High Note is a bi-weekly show featuring performances by the best comedians in the country. You’ve seen them on Netflix, Hulu, Comedy Central, all manner of Late Night performances, and even some of your favorite television shows!

Come at 7:30 to enjoy the super-cozy lounge area, grab some drinks and a snack, and relax before the show which starts promptly at 8pm in the main theater.

—————————————-

AT A GLANCE:

High Note takes place on the First and Third Thursdays of every month.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

The show runs for about 90 minutes, ending around 9:30.

Illusion Magic Lounge has delicious snacks and appetizers, but the theater itself is drinks-only so be sure to finish eating before heading in!

The bar remains staffed during the show, feel free to get a refill! There is no drink minimum at High Note.

—————————————-

GETTING THERE:

The fastest way to get to Illusion Magic Lounge is to simply take the 10 towards Santa Monica, take the 5th St/4th St. exit, turn right on to 4th, and park in Structure 5.

Parking Structure 5 is right next door to the venue and is free for the first hour and a half. As that’s roughly the length of our show, you’ll likely be at the 2 hour mark which is only $2. If you get to Santa Monica early or stay later, parking rates are very reasonable at $5 for 3hrs and $9 for 4hrs.

The Metro E-Line stretches from East LA, through DTLA, and all the way to Santa Monica where it stops 2 blocks away from our show. Go Metro!

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Holiday Hocus Pocus with Jonathan Neal & Christopher Hart
2024-12-06 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-07 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-13 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-14 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-20 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-21 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-27 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-28 19:00 - 21:00
BUY TICKETS!

Your evening of magic and mystery!

Get ready to unlock a full evening of magical entertainment for your enjoyment. Our unique venue provides you the opportunity to see multiple types of magic in a single evening. You’ll be dazzled by our ambient, strolling magicians while you enjoy a refreshing beverage. Entering our 150-seat theater, you’ll see even more magicians dazzle you with mind-bending illusions on our grand 54-foot stage. And to finish out your enchanting evening, our intimate Court Room space hosts a formal close up show — a unique format rarely seen outside the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

Join us and find out why we are Santa Monica’s Most Magical Experience!

Upgrade for our exclusive VIP Experience

Looking to get the most out of your magical evening? We offer a limited number of VIP Experiences for each show. You’ll start off your VIP Experience with a welcome glass of champagne (or non-alcoholic alternative) and enjoy our strolling magic with other guests. When it’s time to head into the theater, we’ve reserved the best seats for our VIP’s Experience. And for our unique formal close-up show, you’ll once again have reserved seats waiting for you. Simply put, this is the best way to experience a magical evening out in Downtown Santa Monica.

NOTE: We have limited VIP availability to preserve the quality of the VIP Experience.

About our Performers

Jonathan Neal

Jonathan Neal has been performing magic at the highest levels for decades. A regular performer at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, check out how this former resident magician at Wizards at Universal Citywalk brings his unique style and class to the stage.

Christopher Hart

Let this Award winning Magician who played ‘Thing’ the disembodied hand in the Addams Family films beguile you with his incredible manual dexterity.

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The Dollface Dames Holiday Spectacular
2024-12-07 20:00 - 23:00
NOTE: This event is produced by a third party. Please contact the Event Producer for any questions related to this event.

Buy Tickets @ HumanTix

The Dollface Dames & Lola Boutée Presents: Main Stage Spectacular

Circus, Cabaret, & Carnival!

A noir mix of acrobatics, burlesque, group dances, fire, & aerial!

Let the lights dim and grab your seats at this historic Santa Monica stadium seating theater! Celebrating over 16 years as LA’s premier burlesque & cabaret company!

Final show of 2024!

Saturday, Dec 7th Holiday Palooza: Celebrating 12 months of your favorite holidays all in one show!

8pm Preparty Mix & Mingle, Photo Exhibit, Roaming Characters, & DJ

Arrive early to sip tasty beverages & appetizers at the swanky magical lobby bar!

9:30pm Seating & Main Stage Show

@Ilusion Magic Lounge

1418 4th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Act fast! Discounted tickets the earlier you buy while supplies last!

Go VIP to be let into the theater first to pick the best seats AND get a souvenir photo to take home with you!

Door $50GA/$95 VIP

Suggested age: 18 & over OR accompanied by an adult

Paid Public Parking structure located next door on 4th street and surrounding lots.

Additional Info:

Tipping is encouraged and tip hats will be circulated.

Tickets are non-refundable but can be transferred to another individual.

2 item minimum per person in support of our venue. Thank you for supporting the arts & live entertainment spaces!

Additional info/parties/special requests: thedollfacedames@gmail.com

The Acrobatics Nutcracker - LA Acrodance
2024-12-08 13:00 - 17:00
NOTE: This event is produced by a third party. Please contact the Event Producer for any questions related to this event.

Buy Tickets @ eTix

Welcome to our first ever, Acrobatics Nutcracker, Spin-Off! This year’s nutcracker combines dance styles from all around the world, as well as ballet and hints of traditions.

We are so excited to welcome all ages to our performance, lasting about an hour and a half. Our Division 2 students, Ballet Academy, Little Stars Performance Group, and Company Members have been preparing to wow our audiences with what they have achieved.

At the Illusion Magic Lounge, there is no other place that could hold our show so nicely. Santa Monica will be jumping with joy once they hear about our Acrobatics Nutcracker!

CLOSED - Private Event
2024-12-12 17:00 - 23:00
Illusion Magic Lounge will be closed this evening to host a private event.

We are sorry for any inconvenience and hopw you join us for magic, wine, and wonderment on another evening.

High Note Comedy LA
2024-12-19 19:30 - 21:30
BUY TICKETS!

Lineup for December 19:

Ify Nwadiwe

Sammy Bronco

Lindsay Adams

Brian Bahe

Sammy Mowrey

Matt LeGrande

Enjoy beer, wine, soju cocktails and a hilarious night out with High Note Comedy!

Located at the Illusion Magic Lounge in Downtown Santa Monica, High Note is a bi-weekly show featuring performances by the best comedians in the country. You’ve seen them on Netflix, Hulu, Comedy Central, all manner of Late Night performances, and even some of your favorite television shows!

Come at 7:30 to enjoy the super-cozy lounge area, grab some drinks and a snack, and relax before the show which starts promptly at 8pm in the main theater.

—————————————-

AT A GLANCE:

High Note takes place on the First and Third Thursdays of every month.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

The show runs for about 90 minutes, ending around 9:30.

Illusion Magic Lounge has delicious snacks and appetizers, but the theater itself is drinks-only so be sure to finish eating before heading in!

The bar remains staffed during the show, feel free to get a refill! There is no drink minimum at High Note.

—————————————-

GETTING THERE:

The fastest way to get to Illusion Magic Lounge is to simply take the 10 towards Santa Monica, take the 5th St/4th St. exit, turn right on to 4th, and park in Structure 5.

Parking Structure 5 is right next door to the venue and is free for the first hour and a half. As that’s roughly the length of our show, you’ll likely be at the 2 hour mark which is only $2. If you get to Santa Monica early or stay later, parking rates are very reasonable at $5 for 3hrs and $9 for 4hrs.

The Metro E-Line stretches from East LA, through DTLA, and all the way to Santa Monica where it stops 2 blocks away from our show. Go Metro!

Click here to buy ticketsSell tickets online with Ticket Tailor

James Mako - Not Your Kids' Magician
2024-12-26 20:00 - 21:30
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An Adults-Only Exploration of the Spectacular

A show like none other. Irreverent, witty, cutthroat, and reflective. This show uses magic tricks as a medium to explore the present-day social climate. The show has no taboos. You’ll never see anything else like it.

Join us as James shares his unique viewpoints — developed as he has moved across the country seeking knowledge and using sleight of hand to connect with people from all walks of life along his travels.

…major differences that separate him from other magicians … the way he tells a story through his tricks.”
-Guero Namara

“James is a real artist and his magic speaks the truth”
-Jordan Allen

A Note about Ticket Pricing

Illusion Magic Lounge was started as a passion project to help bring world-class magic to everyone. If for some reason you’ve had a tough holiday season, email us at info@illusionmagiclounge.com and we will get you a ticket at a price you can afford.

About James

James left home at 17 set on making his own way in the world. He began to travel; seeking life, adventure, and education wherever he could find it. Sneaking into top colleges to take classes on philosophy, psychology, and other topics; even once being thrown out of a mathematics class at Stanford University when the professor learned that he was not a student.

Along the way he searched for and learned from the best sleight of hand artists that he could find, often trading secrets on the way to developing his personal style.

After a few of his scripts began circulating around magic’s inner circles he began writing routines and scripts for other magicians and sleight of hand artists.

Now he is performing his own unique blend of entertainment mixing sleight of hand with poetry, storytelling, and a point of view.

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The Magic of Cassandra & Ben Nemzer - Magic by the Sea
2025-01-03 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-01-04 19:00 - 21:00
BUY TICKETS!

Your evening of magic and mystery!

Get ready to unlock a full evening of magical entertainment for your enjoyment. Our unique venue provides you the opportunity to see multiple types of magic in a single evening. You’ll be dazzled by our ambient, strolling magicians while you enjoy a refreshing beverage. Entering our 150-seat theater, you’ll see even more magicians dazzle you with mind-bending illusions on our grand 54-foot stage. And to finish out your enchanting evening, our intimate Court Room space hosts a formal close up show — a unique format rarely seen outside the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

Join us and find out why we are Santa Monica’s Most Magical Experience!

Upgrade for our exclusive VIP Experience

Looking to get the most out of your magical evening? We offer a limited number of VIP Experiences for each show. You’ll start off your VIP Experience with a welcome glass of champagne (or non-alcoholic alternative) and enjoy our strolling magic with other guests. When it’s time to head into the theater, we’ve reserved the best seats for our VIP’s Experience. And for our unique formal close-up show, you’ll once again have reserved seats waiting for you. Simply put, this is the best way to experience a magical evening out in Downtown Santa Monica.

NOTE: We have limited VIP availability to preserve the quality of the VIP Experience.

About our Performers

Cassandra Nemzer

Cassandra bio

Ben Nemzer

Ben bio.

Click here to buy ticketsSell tickets online with Ticket Tailor

POSTPONED - High Note Comedy LA
2025-01-09 19:30 - 21:30
BUY TICKETS!

Lineup for January 9:

To Be Announced

Enjoy beer, wine, soju cocktails and a hilarious night out with High Note Comedy!

Located at the Illusion Magic Lounge in Downtown Santa Monica, High Note is a bi-weekly show featuring performances by the best comedians in the country. You’ve seen them on Netflix, Hulu, Comedy Central, all manner of Late Night performances, and even some of your favorite television shows!

Come at 7:30 to enjoy the super-cozy lounge area, grab some drinks and a snack, and relax before the show which starts promptly at 8pm in the main theater.

—————————————-

AT A GLANCE:

High Note takes place on the First and Third Thursdays of every month.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

The show runs for about 90 minutes, ending around 9:30.

Illusion Magic Lounge has delicious snacks and appetizers, but the theater itself is drinks-only so be sure to finish eating before heading in!

The bar remains staffed during the show, feel free to get a refill! There is no drink minimum at High Note.

—————————————-

GETTING THERE:

The fastest way to get to Illusion Magic Lounge is to simply take the 10 towards Santa Monica, take the 5th St/4th St. exit, turn right on to 4th, and park in Structure 5.

Parking Structure 5 is right next door to the venue and is free for the first hour and a half. As that’s roughly the length of our show, you’ll likely be at the 2 hour mark which is only $2. If you get to Santa Monica early or stay later, parking rates are very reasonable at $5 for 3hrs and $9 for 4hrs.

The Metro E-Line stretches from East LA, through DTLA, and all the way to Santa Monica where it stops 2 blocks away from our show. Go Metro!

Click here to buy ticketsSell tickets online with Ticket Tailor

CANCELLED: The Magic of Cassandra & Ben Nemzer - Magic by the Sea
2025-01-10 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-01-11 19:00 - 21:00

POSTPONED - The Dollface Dames 17 Year Anniversary
2025-01-11 20:00 - 23:00
NOTE: This event is postponed due to fires in the area. Please contact the Event Producer for any questions related to this event.

Buy Tickets @ HumanTix

The Dollface Dames & Lola Boutée Presents: Main Stage Spectacular

Circus, Cabaret, & Carnival!

A noir mix of acrobatics, burlesque, group dances, fire, & aerial!

Let the lights dim and grab your seats at this historic Santa Monica stadium seating theater! Celebrating over 16 years as LA’s premier burlesque & cabaret company!

The Dollface Dames 17yr Anniversary Show!

8pm Preparty Mix & Mingle, Photo Exhibit, Roaming Characters, & DJ

Arrive early to sip tasty beverages & appetizers at the swanky magical lobby bar!

9:30pm Seating & Main Stage Show

@Ilusion Magic Lounge

1418 4th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Act fast! Discounted tickets the earlier you buy while supplies last!

Go VIP to be let into the theater first to pick the best seats AND get a souvenir photo to take home with you!

Door $50GA/$95 VIP

Suggested age: 18 & over OR accompanied by an adult

Paid Public Parking structure located next door on 4th street and surrounding lots.

Additional Info:

Tipping is encouraged and tip hats will be circulated.

Tickets are non-refundable but can be transferred to another individual.

2 item minimum per person in support of our venue. Thank you for supporting the arts & live entertainment spaces!

Additional info/parties/special requests: thedollfacedames@gmail.com

Amor Film Festival
2025-01-16 18:00 - 21:00
NOTE: This event is produced by a third party. Please contact the Event Producer for any questions related to this event.

Buy Tickets @ Ticket Tailor

Welcome to the Amor Film Festival!

Join us for a fantastic celebration of cinema at the Illusion Magic Lounge in beautiful Downtown Santa Monica, CA, USA. Get ready for a mesmerizing experience as we showcase a curated selection of films from around the world.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Amor Film Festival and let your heart be captivated by the cinema on the big screen. If you enjoy a good short film, this event is perfect for you.

Experience the magic of cinema in person, surrounded by fellow film enthusiasts. Discover new favorites and be inspired by cinema portrayed through the art of filmmaking.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a unique event that celebrates the universal language of love. Find a cozy seat, and get ready to fall in love with the Amor Film Festival!

Parking garage available | 2-minute walk from Illusion Magic Lounge

This is a 21 & up venue! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please note some material may not be suitable for children.

*All attendees are required to purchase a ticket*

Pre-purchasing tickets is advised; ticket prices increase at the door.

***All ticket sales are final and non-refundable****

Follow us! @amorfilmfestival

Zach Waldman & Lou Serrano - Magic by the Sea
2025-01-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-01-18 19:00 - 21:00
BUY TICKETS!

Your evening of magic and mystery!

Get ready to unlock a full evening of magical entertainment for your enjoyment. Our unique venue provides you the opportunity to see multiple types of magic in a single evening. You’ll be dazzled by our ambient, strolling magicians while you enjoy a refreshing beverage. Entering our 150-seat theater, you’ll see even more magicians dazzle you with mind-bending illusions on our grand 54-foot stage. And to finish out your enchanting evening, our intimate Court Room space hosts a formal close up show — a unique format rarely seen outside the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

Join us and find out why we are Santa Monica’s Most Magical Experience!

Upgrade for our exclusive VIP Experience

Looking to get the most out of your magical evening? We offer a limited number of VIP Experiences for each show. You’ll start off your VIP Experience with a welcome glass of champagne (or non-alcoholic alternative) and enjoy our strolling magic with other guests. When it’s time to head into the theater, we’ve reserved the best seats for our VIP’s Experience. And for our unique formal close-up show, you’ll once again have reserved seats waiting for you. Simply put, this is the best way to experience a magical evening out in Downtown Santa Monica.

NOTE: We have limited VIP availability to preserve the quality of the VIP Experience.

About our Performers

Zach Waldman

When Zach was about six years old, Burger King copied McDonald’s and their happy meal with a kids’ meal of their own. Most people don’t remember, but there was a guy who played the part of the Burger King and he was a magician. As a result, their kids’ meal came with magic tricks, which is where Zach got his first one. He still has it after all these years!

Zach fell in love with magic, and as a he got older his mom encouraged him to put together an act and charge money for it. That’s right, his mom actually pushed me toward being a professional entertainer.

Zach was born in North Miami, FL, graduated from the University of Central Florida, moved to New York City to work on The Howard Stern Show, and then worked for Kenny Kramer, the real Kramer. Next, he moved to Chicago to attend the Player’s Workshop of the Second City, and finally landed in Santa Monica, CA, which is where he has been since 2000. He’s clearly running from the law, but we won’t tell. 🙂

Zach has performed all over the country for major corporations, celebrities, and audiences from all walks of life. He’s been a featured performer at the Magic Castle in Hollywood and numerous other venues across the country.

Lou Serrano

“Lou Serrano is the best I’ve ever seen,” says Gene Simmons of KISS, while comedian Jeff Garlin describes him as “A big bowl of Wow!” These aren’t just compliments—they’re testaments to the unforgettable experience Lou brings to every room he walks into.

When it comes to creating unforgettable moments, Lou Serrano is the secret ingredient that turns ordinary evenings into extraordinary experiences. As a master magician and mentalist with over 25 years of professional experience, Lou has built a reputation for captivating audiences across the globe—from Fortune 500 companies like Amazon, Apple, and Disney, to celebrities such as Johnny Depp and Steven Tyler. But it’s not just about the magic—it’s about the impact Lou creates for his audiences.

Click here to buy ticketsSell tickets online with Ticket Tailor

Arty Loon - Family Magic Matinee
2025-01-18 13:00 - 14:00
BUY TICKETS!

Family Matinee Magic Show

Bring the whole family to our matinee shows at Illusion Magic Lounge. This 45 minute show is held in our 150-seat theater and is crafted to entertain kids of all ages. Our rotating cast of world-class magicians have all been featured on stage at The Magic Castle in Hollywood and on screen in Penn and Teller’s Fool Us, Masters of Illusion, and many more shows!

VIP Reserved Seating

With our VIP Reserved Seating option, you’re guaranteed the best seats in the house.

Join us and find out why we are Santa Monica’s Most Magical Experience!

Click here to buy ticketsSell tickets online with Ticket Tailor

The Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy
2025-01-23 18:00 - 2025-01-25 21:30
NOTE: This event is produced by a third party. Please contact the Event Producer for any questions related to this event.

Buy Tickets @ Eventbrite

The Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy is a 21+ only, chilling cocktail experience dedicated to the stories of Edgar Allan Poe. The event takes place inside a dark speakeasy. Four of his most famous stories will be retold and reimagined by our Poe historians. Our macabre lead mixologist will transform each of those stories into a 4-part cocktail experience.

Reservations are restricted to a small number of guests for a 90-minute experience. The experience takes place for three nights only. Tickets are extremely limited.

High Note Comedy LA
2025-01-30 19:30 - 21:30
BUY TICKETS!

Lineup for January 30:

Whitmer Thomas

Gianmarco Soresi

Sammy Mowrey

Ellory Smith

John-Michael Bond

Becky Braunstein

Alyssa Yeoman

Ray Lau

Enjoy beer, wine, soju cocktails and a hilarious night out with High Note Comedy!

Located at the Illusion Magic Lounge in Downtown Santa Monica, High Note is a bi-weekly show featuring performances by the best comedians in the country. You’ve seen them on Netflix, Hulu, Comedy Central, all manner of Late Night performances, and even some of your favorite television shows!

Come at 7:30 to enjoy the super-cozy lounge area, grab some drinks and a snack, and relax before the show which starts promptly at 8pm in the main theater.

—————————————-

AT A GLANCE:

High Note takes place on the First and Third Thursdays of every month.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

The show runs for about 90 minutes, ending around 9:30.

Illusion Magic Lounge has delicious snacks and appetizers, but the theater itself is drinks-only so be sure to finish eating before heading in!

The bar remains staffed during the show, feel free to get a refill! There is no drink minimum at High Note.

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GETTING THERE:

The fastest way to get to Illusion Magic Lounge is to simply take the 10 towards Santa Monica, take the 5th St/4th St. exit, turn right on to 4th, and park in Structure 5.

Parking Structure 5 is right next door to the venue and is free for the first hour and a half. As that’s roughly the length of our show, you’ll likely be at the 2 hour mark which is only $2. If you get to Santa Monica early or stay later, parking rates are very reasonable at $5 for 3hrs and $9 for 4hrs.

The Metro E-Line stretches from East LA, through DTLA, and all the way to Santa Monica where it stops 2 blocks away from our show. Go Metro!

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