Magic is Real!
"An Honest Living" is a testament to Justin Purcell's unparalleled dedication to the art of magic, honed over years of avoiding actual work. With a deadpan delivery and a penchant for the absurd, Justin now invites you to bear witness to the consequences of his career choices.
This is more than just a magic show—it's an interactive journey into the depths of Justin's singular mind. Prepare to be captivated by his extraordinary sleight of hand as he effortlessly manipulates reality, performing tricks that have taken a lifetime to master. His razor-sharp wit and off-kilter sense of humor breathe new life into the classics of magic, creating an experience that is both captivating and hilariously unconventional.
Directed by Mick Napier, founder and artistic director of the Annoyance Theater, "An Honest Living" celebrates Justin's unique talents and unwavering commitment to evading the shackles of a "real job." Join us for a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you believing in the wonders of the impossible.
About the magician:
Inspired by an “I Can Read!” book called Spooky Tricks, Justin Purcell began conjuring at an early age and started performing magic professionally at sixteen. Purcell is a founding company member of the Chicago Magic Lounge, where he is a House Magician and frequent headliner. He has performed at the World Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA, along with private and corporate shows, and is the resident bar magician at Logan Arcade. Named “Chicago’s Best Bar Magician” in 2019, Chicago Magazine wrote that Justin performs “with the aplomb of a ringmaster and the flair of a standup comedian.” Outside of magic, Justin plays drums for the feminist punk band The Cell Phones and has studied improv at the iO Training Center and the Second City Conservatory.
About the director:
Founder and visionary behind the acclaimed Annoyance Theatre, Mick Napier, is known nationally and internationally as an innovator and creative force in comedy, improvisation, and theater. His belief in the element of risk-taking that is at the core of improvisation influences his work and his direction, inspiring genuine creativity in any project with which he is involved.
With the Annoyance, Mick has spent more than 20 years developing and cultivating a style of work and production that has been both acclaimed and imitated. As a Director and Artistic Consultant for the internationally renowned Second City, he made his mark, having directed more than ten revues there, including the 40th and 50th Anniversary revues, and Paradigm Lost, which earned him a Joseph Jefferson Award for direction. Mick’s has also directed such high-profile actors and writers as Martin Short (Martin Short & Friends,) Jeff Garlin (I Want Someone to Eat Cheese With,) and David & Amy Sedaris in their Obie Award Winning hit One Woman Shoe.
In the world of magic, Mick has been performing Mentalism with his wife for over 20 years. He also enjoys performing card tricks at The Annoyance. In regard to directing and magic, he has had the honor of working with Luis Carreon, Derek Hughs, Nick Diffatte, Adam Rubin, Rob Zabrecky, and Jonathan Burns.
Take a virtual tour of the cabaret below
Wednesday nights, October 4th - January 3rd. Ticket prices for this show range from $42.50 (standard) to $47.50 (front row).
The Harry Blackstone Cabaret features an unobstructed view from every section.
The cabaret-style seating, with elevated rail and banquette areas on the main floor, allows for maximum access to view the stage and enjoy a cocktail. This also means you and your party may share a table with other guests.
Seat assignments are selected by the guest at the time of ticket purchase. If you have specific seating needs or requests, please contact the Patron Services team at boxoffice@chicagomagiclounge.com or call 312-366-4500 and we will do our best to accommodate you.