Happy Wednesday, Charleston. It’s Jen. When Katie and I got word of the recent opening of Charleston’s own magic parlor, Holy City Magic, we were instantly intrigued.

Prior to stopping by Holy City Magic for a show, my familiarity with magic essentially involved a combination of the Harry Potter books, the vague memory of a beginner’s magic kit I was gifted as a child, and a handful of Arrested Development references. Needless to say, I had no idea what my expectations for Holy City Magic should be. My takeaway? This is a must-do for anyone in search of something new + fun in Charleston.

❓ The background: The owner, magician Howard Blackwell, has been performing magic since age 12 – and he’s been putting on shows around Charleston for over 10 years. He achieved his longtime goal of opening his own spot, Holy City Magic, in August.

📍 The location: 49 ½ John Street (right off King Street by 39 Rue de Jean). Second floor above Paolos Gelato and Gourmet. There’s a metered parking lot right across the street.

🎩 The experience: Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and there’s a cocktail hour with beer + wine for sale, close-up magic performed at the bar by Howard, and complimentary treats courtesy of Paolos (located downstairs). At 7:30, the show begins. It’s 90 minutes long + includes a brief intermission.

👍 Who would love this: Anyone who enjoys live entertainment would enjoy the show. (It’s as fun + entertaining as it is mind-blowing.) The night shows are geared toward an adult crowd, but the parlor also hosts family-friendly matinees.

👫 Who to bring: Anyone. This could work as a fun first date, a girl’s night out, or an activity for when the in-laws are in town.

🎪 Atmosphere: Casual dress is fine. The space houses a medium-sized crowd, meaning there’s plenty of opportunity for audience participation – but it’s also big enough that there’s no pressure to become part of the show.

🎟️ The cost + when to buy: A general admission ticket costs $25, or you can secure a front row seat for $30. Some shows sell out more than a week in advance – so make sure to buy tickets as far in advance if you can, and don’t count on being able to grab yours at the door.

🍷 Pairs well with: The show wraps up around 9 p.m., and it’s within easy walking distance to King Street bars + restaurants – so plan for a late dinner or a nightcap. Katie and I opted to grab halal from a nearby food cart + call it a night, which was equally fulfilling.

⏰ When to go: Shows are typically offered on Friday + Saturdays. You can also book a private show for a group event.

📆 Coming up:
Oct 18-20: Magician Jay Mattiolo (Showtime at the Apollo, America’s Got Talent) will be performing Oct. 18-20.
Oct. 25-26 + Nov. 1-2: Howard performs a spooky, all-mentalism show for Halloween.
Buy tickets online here. Pro tip: CHStoday readers can use the promo code “friends” for $5 off.

Follow along on our Instagram page today to watch Howard perform a spellbinding illusion for the CHStoday team.

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