Presto! Magicians move into a former call center | Business Observer

Downtown St. Petersburg’s EDGE district, already an eclectic neighborhood, has become even more vibrant with the arrival of the Zubrick Magic Theatre, which opened in July. At 1211 1st Ave. N., Suite 101, the 90-seat venue features Las Vegas-style magic shows performed by illusionists Chris and Ryan Zubrick, who are Michigan natives but spent 13 years plying their trade overseas in Saipan and Guam , where they performed over 7,000 shows.

The Zubricks bring extensive industry experience, credibility and accolades to their new home in St. Pete. In 2018, they received the magic industry’s highest honor, the Merlin Award, for Best Family Magic Show, presented by the International Magicians Society. Previous recipients include Criss Angel, Siegfried and Roy, Penn and Teller and David Copperfield.

Their venue, a former call center, was renovated with more than $130,000 in renovations, according to Pinellas County Property Appraiser records. Charging $40 per person, the Zubricks perform three 70-minute shows a week, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. The performances, according to a press release, are a family mix of sleight of hand, comedy and “large scale” illusions.

“We are passionate about creating a fantastic, one-of-a-kind experience for our audience,” Chris Zubrick said in the release. “Our goal is to amaze and entertain people of all ages and create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.”

If not for the pandemic, the Zubricks might not have found their way to St. Pete. In Guam, they had a high-profile gig at the $40 million, 500-seat Sandcastle Dinner Theater. But the COVID-19 crisis shut down that venue, prompting them to consider returning to the United States.

“We look forward to bringing an exciting and compelling new experience to the St. Petersburg community and its tourists year-round,” Ryan Zubrick said in the release.

The Zubrick Magic Theater also offers a VIP package, priced at $137, which includes front-row seats for two, two drinks, popcorn and a commemorative gift. Tickets are available at https://www.zubrickmagic.com/tickets.