PicksInSix Review: Dennis Watkins - The Magic Parlour
Magician Dennis Watkins – Showman Par Excellence!
PicksInSix® Review | Ed Tracy
Chicago’s consummate magician Dennis Watkins has moved The Magic Parlour from the Palmer House Hotel—where it enjoyed a hugely successful, decade-long run—into a new home in the exquisitely renovated space on the lower level of Petterino’s Restaurant in the heart of the Loop theater district. With high expectations and reservations running through the roof, it was announced in advance of the press openings last weekend that the new show, presented in partnership with Goodman Theatre and Petterino’s, has already been extended well into 2024.
Watkins is a brilliant third generation magician and showman par excellence who performs close-up magic for about 60 guests at the new venue, which he says is the perfect number to ensure that everyone will have the same experience and opportunity to participate. For 90 minutes, Watkins offers up a captivating, multi-faceted show that includes spell binding effects, phenomenal psychic prognostications, audience participation and engaging storytelling mixed with witty comedic moments that come out of—and disappear into—thin air. No saws, trap doors or rabbits here. Watkins artistry is in full view and on glorious display!
There is a through line of the show that is not readily apparent and will not be disclosed here, but that story hinges on the accumulation of Watkins special brand of illusions, mind-reading, numerical wizardry and sleight of hand elements that keep things moving so quickly that you will be asking for more.
And there is more.
Immediately following the main show, Watkins literally rolls up his sleeves in The Encore Room for a VIP close up table session providing an additional opportunity to witness his dazzling skills from only a few feet away. All in, Dennis Watkins superb talent and engaging personality makes everyone feel at home, and, a visit to The Magic Parlour, one of the most entertaining experiences you can have in Chicago right now!
The house opens an hour before the show and Petterino’s offers both light bites onsite for an additional charge or the full menu experience upstairs before or after the show with advance reservations suggested, particularly for the upcoming holiday season. And, if you believe in magic, you just might nab seats in The Encore Room to make your evening complete!
PHOTO|Kyle Flubacker Photography
DENNIS WATKINS
THE MAGIC PARLOUR
presented by
GOODMAN THEATRE & PETTERINO’S
50 W Randolph Street
Open Run
THE MAGIC PARLOUR WEBSITE
PETTERINOS
GOODMAN THEATRE
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