NUNN'S THEATER HABIT
Sun. April 5, 2026 12:00 AM
by Jerry Nunn
Chicago Magic Lounge presents an up close and personal magic act this spring with Intimo. Luis Carreon's new one-man show will mesmerize and astound ticket holders in a magical venue.
If one has not entered into this enchanting establishment before, prepare for an immersive experience full of tricks and treats. Even finding a way inside the lounge in Andersonville can be a challenge, thanks to an illusion located right at the front.
Once down the rabbit hole, head to the Performance Bar on the left for a chance to see a rotating lineup of mentalists perform a 20-minute magic set every night from 5 p.m. until close.
After checking in with the host on duty, guests will be escorted into a library full of antique magical tomes and a brief explanation about the environment.
Once seated in the Harry Blackstone Cabaret Theater, servers will offer menu options to diners and roaming prestidigitators will entertain at individual tables sporadically. The Beef Tenderloin and Fried Chicken Sliders will make hungry patrons wish they had a magic wand to wave for a full-sized sandwich. Pair the mini bites with a side of French fries and watch them disappear quickly into the stomach thanks to the truffle aioli sauce.
Wash it down with a classic cocktail such as an Old Fashioned or Manhattan or go spirit-free with a Gruvi Sangria.
Finally, it's time for the headliner and Luis Carreon is worth the wait, beginning with a bewitching video montage. He's been captivating spectators for over 21 years and has won trophies along the way. His specialty is up close card tricks and sleight of hand magic.
The man from Morelia, Mexico, injects his heritage and culture into his performances, setting him apart from the rest of the pack. His charming stories will put a spell on you, then it's “all gas, no brakes” as he likes to say, as he drives his narratives into the modern world.
He references expert magician John Scarne and flamboyant Puerto Rican astrologer Walter Mercado with “mucho mucho amor.”
Hopping around hot topics while mixing abracadabra with chupacabra, this magnetic personality delivers devilishly engaging material that never grows dull.
He involves the audience throughout his cohesive and curated set full of fun facts. Carreon's approach is light and casual, almost like he's talking to a friend when addressing those gathered around him.
While Luis rocks out to Rammstein's “Du hast” in his personal life, he restrains himself with this project and evokes Spanish guitars for Intimo.
His sorcery will keep audiences guessing until the bitter end and leave them wanting more. ¡Sí, se puede!
For tickets to the magical realm of 5050 North Clark Street, visit chicagomagiclounge.com. Carry on with Carreon at the Chicago Magic Lounge until June 24, 2026.