Zubrick Magic Theater is a unique and captivating performance venue located in San Francisco, California. The theater specializes in showcasing the art of magic and illusion, providing an enchanting experience for audiences of all ages. Founded by the renowned magician, Victor Zubrick, the theater aims to redefine the traditional perception of magic shows. Zubrick has dedicated his life to the study and practice of magic, and his passion shines through in every performance. Walking into the Zubrick Magic Theater feels like stepping into a world of wonder. The intimate setting allows for a close-up experience, where audience members can feel the magic happening right in front of their eyes.
Florida on a Tankful: Experience the passion behind the illusions of the Zubrick Magic Show
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg is known for its sandy white beaches, restaurants, bars — you name they have it. But there is a new attraction that just officially opened this past fall that is turning the heads of locals and visitors alike.
Preparing for the glitz and glam of the theater is a nightly routine for husbands Ryan and Chris Zubrick. They have to be at the top of their game each night they perform, and more importantly, they need to be ready to impress with their illusionist show at the Zubrick Magic Theatre.
Each of them grew up loving magic — they both performed overseas with different shows for years. It wasn't until the start of the pandemic that they realized they wanted to start their own show in sunny Florida.
Here, inside their seemingly normal small-scale theater, it transforms into something you'd likely see on the strip in Las Vegas. All of this coming to life through Chris's vision designing every aspect from the music and lights to the tricks.
And it really is a family affair at the Zubrick Theatre. Chris and Ryan are teaching their 4-year-old son, Oliver, the tricks of the trade. He performs alongside his fathers on select nights.
It's a one-of-a-kind experience with these experienced magicians — a night full of illusions and good family fun with the Zubricks.
Show dates vary but weekend shows are quick to sell out so it's best to reserve tickets early. For more information, you can head to their website.
The Magic and Wonder of Zubrick Magic Theatre
The magic we experience on stage at Zubrick Magic Theatre in St. Pete is the result of… an accident. Chris and Ryan Zubrick of Michigan met when the then-individual performers were double booked for an event. This could have easily been considered an entertainer’s worst nightmare—but it turned out to be serendipity. This magical mistake by an event planner allowed the magicians (and now husbands and fathers) to combine their talents and create a show that has left countless families in wonder and awe. As we continue our conversation with the magicians, we’re learning more about their journey in magic.
How did you get involved in magic?
Chris: We both entered magic independently from a very young age. For me, I found a magic trick on the bottom of a cereal box, and that’s how I first discovered magic. FUN FACT: You can still find the curated magic set that includes the same first trick Chris found as a kid—it’s a rope trick! Ryan: I received a magic set for my sixth birthday, and I was hooked on the art after that. And we met in 2005 when event coordinators unknowingly double booked us for the same event. Chris: I always knew from an early age that I eventually wanted to have our own theater. It’s just come to fruition here in the Tampa Bay area in St. Petersburg, which is a great community
What was your “aha” moment that made you realize this is what you wanted to pursue as a career?
Chris: I think it was when as a child, you can fool an adult. You could do something that an adult could not do, and they had no idea how you did it. That was a lot of encouragement. Ryan: I used to put on little shows for family birthday parties and family reunions, and it just kept growing and growing. My dad started building illusions because I wanted to get into some of the bigger stuff—I was doing shows for Boy Scout groups and different fundraising events, and it never stopped.
You’ve performed around the world and could have brought your show anywhere. Why Tampa Bay?
Chris: We were performing overseas on the island of Guam for 13 years. When the pandemic hit, we closed our show and bought a 34-foot Class-A RV, traveled east coast to west coast and everywhere in between. We visited 26 states, looking for our forever home. St Pete and Tampa Bay were never on the map. We happened to be in the Florida Keys and coming across the Sunshine Skyway bridge on our way back up to Michigan. It dumped us out into St Petersburg. We looked around and went wow, this is a great area, a great community. It checked all the boxes for us. There were no Michigan winters … we wanted the tropical life of the beaches and the palm trees. There was no competition; there is no magic show or anything like we’re doing in the area, and it had year-round tourism. We love St. Petersburg. The Tampa Bay area and the community has welcomed us, and our show is doing well. We hope to be here for many, many years.
Being able to perform again in front of a live audience must have been a pretty special feeling for you both.
Chris: Magic is best experienced live and in person. This is an intimate theater. We only have 92 seats, so you’re not too far away from the action, and a lot of people comment after the show they feel like they’ve experienced a grand illusion magic show in their own living room. Ryan: We love incorporating them and making them the stars of the show. We love bringing kids on stage—it makes it different for every performance for us and the audience for our repeat guests. You never know what they’re going to do, what they’re going to say. Chris: Our show is for multi-generational audiences. The young [and] young at heart can enjoy our show. The real magic is that childlike wonder that we get to see in the audience and to bring back. It’s funny to see a gentleman come in and they’ve got their hands crossed and they don’t want to be here and then by the end the show they are just smiling from ear to ear, and they just love it because they feel like a kid again and they get to experience magic and wonder. I think in this day in age, we’re on our devices all the time, so being able to put that way for 70 minutes and enjoy live entertainment and laugh and clap and enjoy what you are seeing right in front of you is what’s needed and special. These days, you don’t get that often.
Do you have any favorite tricks or moments in the show?
Ryan: I think our finale is the one that we enjoy the most and gets talked about the most. We’re not going to give away what it is—you’ll have to come and see it. You would not expect it on this stage. One of my favorite moments in the show is when we invite our 5-year-old son Oliver on stage to perform his own act. To see him enjoying magic and to hear the audience respond after he does perform is heartwarming. We never force him to take the stage if he doesn’t want to, but right now he loves it! He smiles and is waving at the audience… Chris: Future Houdinis have to come from somewhere.
Can you share a magic trick?
Chris: We do teach a magic trick during the show, so you’re going to have to come check out the show!
While you sell concessions like beer, wine, soda, water, candy and popcorn, do you have any favorite spots for a pre-show dinner?
Ryan: Downtown has so many great restaurants downtown. We’re only one block off Central, which has so many great options. Chris: Our favorite is Red Mesa Mercado across the street.
Other that share your magic, what are your favorite things to do in Tampa Bay?
Chris: Visit the St. Pete Pier. We enjoy going to the museums. Oliver enjoys the playgrounds, beaches of course during the summer … just getting outdoors.
How To Experience the Magic:
- Zubrick Magic Theatre: 1211 1 st Ave. N., Suite 101, St. Petersburg
- Performances are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
- Tickets: $42 + taxes and fees. Children ages 1-3 are free if they sit on an adult’s lap.
- ZubrickMagic.com
Want More? Read our 2022 interview with Ryan and Chris as they share their journey about building their life together as a family.
*Presented by Zubrick Magic Theatre | Originally published in March 2023 of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.
ZUBRICK MAGIC THEATRE Opens in Downtown St. Petersburg
VOTED “BEST Family Magic SHOW!”
Experience the wonder at St. Pete’s only magic theatre. Get your tickets now before they all … DISAPPEAR!
It’s NO ILLUSION: The ZUBRICK MAGIC THEATRE in ST. PETE is OPEN NOW
Article by Nanette Wiser
Be prepared to be amazed when award-winning illusionists Chris and Ryan Zubrick perform at the Zubrick Magic Theatre this summer in the EDGE District in downtown St. Petersburg. Opening night was a huge success on July 29th and their ribbon cutting with the St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay Chambers of Commerce will be August 25th.
This spectacular venue in shades of black, gold and purple (the colors of intrigue and wonder), studded with twinkle light and sophisticated glitter is giving audiences young and old a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and sensations they’ve never experienced before.
The Zubricks conjure up an exhilarating blend of sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy and breathtaking grand-scale illusions in a whimsical and elegant performance that captures the hearts and imaginations of multi-generational audiences.
Originally from Michigan, Chris and Ryan were magic-obsessed youngsters who knew they loved magic from a young age. They met by accident in 2005 when they were both booked for the same event. The rest is kismet, from their astounding success overseas to their marriage and happy days raising their son Oliver (now 4) and building the theatre with the help of their friends and family.
Chris and Ryan returned from a 13-year run performing overseas on the islands of Saipan and Guam. After performing over 7,500 shows for more than 2 million people, they decided to bring their astonishing brand of magic and grand illusion back to the United States. They toured 26 states and chose St. Petersburg because they wanted to raise their son Oliver in a family-friendly community that supports diversity and LGBTQ parents.
“St. Petersburg ticked off all our boxes,” explains Chris. “A warm climate with palm trees and beaches (no Michigan winters), a great place to raise our son, a world-class arts and entertainment industry, a popular tourist destination and a great place to live and work. We believe that our theatre will draw people from all over the country (and the world) and is a refreshing addition to the local scene.”
An intimate and unforgettable evening of magical entertainment fits the bill for date night, an opportunity to escape reality with a group of friends or the chance to seek a mind-boggling activity the whole family can enjoy together.
“Chris and Ryan Zubrick cut a stunning picture with their unique and fresh look. Articulate and personable, they entertain and charm audiences with their winning personalities and impressive magic,” says David Copperfield’s co-director and choreographer Joannie Spina. Their St. Petersburg show is more personal. When they performed abroad, their audience spoke multiple languages, so their commentary was minimal. In the new theatre, they weave together stories about growing up, their family, their heroes like Lance Burton and
they perform illusions inspired by their history and love of magic. Be prepared for an ethereal firefly illusion reminiscent of summers in Michigan. Even Oliver gets into the groove, telling Daddy and Papa Zubrick that he will perform there one day and pointing out things at the store they need for the theatre.
“Magic creates a childlike wonder in all of us,” says Chris. “After this year’s pandemic, we all need some magic in our lives. It’s the perfect time to open our theatre.”
It’s no wonder the duo has been showered with awards such as “The Merlin Award” in 2018 for Best Family Magic Show, the industry’s highest honor. Previous recipients included Penn & Teller, Criss Angel and Siegfried & Roy. Other kudos include Magician of the Year, Best Stage Act, Best Costume and Trophy of Excellence from prestigious entertainment and industry groups.
“We are passionate about creating a fantastic, one-of-a-kind experience for our audience,” said Chris Zubrick. “Our goal is to amaze and entertain people of all ages and create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.” Ryan Zubrick added, “We look forward to entertaining guests at our magical venue which creates a new thrilling and mesmerizing experience for the St. Petersburg community and its year-round tourists.”
No doubt, Zubrick Magic Theatre will be the hottest ticket in St. Petersburg for years to come.
Zubrick Magic Theatre @ downtown St. Pete
1211 1st Avenue N., Suite 101
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
www.zubrickmagic.com
1-866-ZUBRICK (982-7425)
[email protected]
FYI: Free street parking and parking lot behind theater. Popcorn, candy and beverages available for sale; no outside food or drink is permitted. Beer and wine available for patrons 21+ with ID.
Ask us about group sales, booking a private show for your meeting, or renting event space at our 90-seat theatre.
SHOW TIMES
Thursday-Saturday 7 p.m.
Doors open at 6 p.m. 70-minute show, no intermission.
TICKETS
Available for purchase on the website. Follow them on Instagram, Twitter and on Facebook @zubrickmagic
General Admission: $40/person plus taxes & fees; children 3 and under free if sitting on adult lap. VIP Package: $117 plus taxes and fees includes premium front-row seating for two adults, two beverages, one popcorn & one VIP gift. Prices subject to change without notice.
The intimate setting allows for a close-up experience, where audience members can feel the magic happening right in front of their eyes. The theater is adorned with luxurious velvet curtains, dimmed lighting, and a hint of mystery that adds to the overall ambiance. The performances at Zubrick Magic Theater are meticulously crafted to leave audiences spellbound.
Each show combines a variety of magic tricks, illusions, and mindreading acts, all seamlessly woven together to create a seamless and mesmerizing experience. Zubrick masterfully combines classic magic with contemporary elements, ensuring a modern twist on age-old illusions. One of the reasons Zubrick Magic Theater stands out is its commitment to audience engagement. The intimate setting allows for a more interactive experience, with audience members occasionally invited on stage to participate in the magic tricks. This incredible level of engagement adds an element of surprise and excitement that is unmatched by larger, more conventional magic shows. In addition to the regular performances, Zubrick Magic Theater also hosts special events and workshops. These workshops give magic enthusiasts the opportunity to learn from the masters themselves and discover the secrets behind some of the most famous tricks. It's a unique opportunity to delve into the world of magic and gain insight into the dedication and skill required to master this captivating art form. Overall, Zubrick Magic Theater is a hidden gem in San Francisco's entertainment scene. With its enchanting atmosphere, masterful performances, and commitment to audience engagement, it offers an unforgettable experience like no other. Whether you're a magic enthusiast or simply looking for a night of wonder and excitement, a visit to Zubrick Magic Theater is sure to leave you awestruck..
Reviews for "Witness Mind-Blowing Feats of Magic at the Zubrick Magic Theater"
- Jane - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with the Zubrick magic theater. The show didn't live up to the hype at all. The tricks were predictable and lacked any wow factor. The magician seemed amateurish and his delivery was awkward. I expected a much more polished and professional performance. Overall, it was a letdown and I wouldn't recommend it.
- Tom - 1/5 stars - The Zubrick magic theater was a complete waste of time and money. The tricks were so basic and unimpressive that I could have easily figured them out myself. The magician lacked charisma and his stage presence was comically bad. I felt like I was watching a school talent show rather than a professional magic performance. Save your money and skip this one.
- Samantha - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for the Zubrick magic theater, but unfortunately, it fell flat. The tricks were nothing special and I've seen similar ones at children's birthday parties. The magician seemed more interested in cracking jokes than actually impressing the audience with his skills. The overall atmosphere of the theater was also lacking, with uncomfortable seating and poor lighting. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone looking for a truly magical experience.
- Mark - 2/5 stars - I attended the Zubrick magic theater with a group of friends and we were all left feeling underwhelmed. The tricks were lackluster and we weren't blown away by any of them. The magician's performance lacked energy and enthusiasm, making it hard to stay engaged. The theater itself was also small and cramped, which added to the less-than-stellar experience. We expected a night of mind-blowing magic, but instead, we got an evening of mediocrity.