Mystifying and amusing performances set the stage for Pittsburgh’s magic culture. Several boutique-style theaters throughout the city feature magicians from all over the world, and the mind-boggling experience is one to remember.
LIBERTY MAGIC
With just a 70-seat intimate theater with speakeasy vibes, Liberty Magic in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District presents close-up magic. They have new shows each month, featuring magicians from all over the world.
The multiweek residencies give magic artists a chance to experiment and flourish with bigger concepts and illusions. Each show brings its own style: some are traditional mentalism, while others are more experimental in nature.
“Liberty Magic is unique because we strive to bring the best magicians from around the world and around the corner,” said Zoe Ruth, director of operations at The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. “We’ve invested in the next generation of magical artists, which has been exciting. We’re investigating what the next wave of magic is going to be and the distinctive way Pittsburgh can contribute to this art form.”
Upcoming performances include Michael Misko in I Laugh in the Face of Magic running from December 6 through Jan 14, 2024. Mikso is described as “the Zach Galifianakis of magic.” The star’s greatest asset is the ability to combine comedy and sleight of hand technique. Additionally, Willliam Watt, a magician and mentalist with quirky charm, comes to Pittsburgh with The Hidden Show from February 7 through March 3, 2024. Visit the Cultural Trust’s website for the full 2023–2024 lineup.
Shows run Wednesdays through Sundays and are typically 70-90 minutes. Tickets start at $40.
Liberty Magic is located at 811 Liberty Avenue in Pittsburgh—on the same block where Harry Houdini mesmerized Pittsburgh in 1916.
RARE MAGIC PITTSBURGH
Exclusive to The Industrialist Hotel, Rare Magic is led by Ohio native and magician, Drew Murray. Murray blends elegant sleight of hand with gripping storytelling to create an unforgettable experience for guests. He dazzles crowds with his close-up magic and moments of pure impossibility.
“Magic is an interesting way of connecting with people; it breaks all barriers. Rare Magic is about the precious time we have together, and it’s so different than what you may have seen. At the end, something surprising extends beyond the walls of the room–and it just may come back to surprise you when you least expect it,” said Murray.
The theatre-style room fits 60 guests, and shows run about 75 minutes. Tickets run $57 - $77 per person, not including processing fees. Tickets have been known to sell out quickly online, and the next round of shows is coming up during New Year’s Eve weekend. While there is no official dress code, a visit to the Rare Magic experience is an excuse to dress up while out for a night in the city. The Rare Magic experience is designed for guests 18 and older. Cocktails and beverages from The Rebel Room inside the hotel are available for purchase to enjoy in the showroom.
52 UP CLOSE
52 Up Close at downtown’s Hotel Monaco features conjuring at its finest in an intimate and immersive 90-minute performance. As the longest running magic show in Pittsburgh’s history (it’s been open since 2011), guests will witness mind reading and sleight of hand on a personal level.
Performed by Pittsburgh native Lee Terbosic, his one-man show, The Life & Death of Harry Houdini, is a mesmerizing blend of entertainment, enlightenment and empowerment. The show will transport audiences to a place where the magic of history meets the spark of inspiration.
“Portraying Harry Houdini is a profound privilege, and with each packed house, I embark on a remarkable journey,” said Terbosic. “I seamlessly weave historical facts, magic and imaginative storytelling, conjuring a vivid narrative that takes you inside Houdini’s living room on his final night at home, transporting you back in time to a spirited party, surrounded by neighbors and friends of his era. The result is an evening where history comes to life, and the dreamer in each of us is reignited.”
Magic fans may recall Lee’s name from his recent shows at Liberty Magic. “This hometown connection not only lets me share my passion and talents with the local community, but also creates a deeper, more meaningful connection with my audience,” added Terbosic.
VIP ticket holders have access to the after-show event, giving the intimate crowd a chance to see even more tricks, up close and personal.
52 Up Close returns in March 2024 to the Hotel Monaco.