An Exciting New Venue!

Here's some happy news for those of you who have missed my public restaurant appearances.  Since New Amsterdam closed, many of you have asked whether I would be appearing at another restaurant, and I'm pleased to say that beginning May 31, I'll be performing tableside close up magic Thursday evenings at Tannins & Hops, at 619 SW Water Street in Peoria.  Tannins & Hops is an authentic 1920's style speakeasy, with a "secret" location, a password required for entrance, and a casual, relaxed atmosphere that lends itself to conversation and socializing.

Tannins & Hops is essentially in the same building as Kelleher's, but it's side door entrance is a bit hard to find if you've never been there before (thus the "secret" location in the best "speakeasy" tradition!)  The building was actually used as a transport spot for illegal alcohol during prohibition, so the history fits the theme.  Once you find the door, you'll enter a small foyer, where you'll need to pull a rope to ring a bell, open a small iron window, and will be expected to give the password.

Inside are a variety of "re-purposed" items from the Peoria area, including a communal table made from an old bowling alley lane, Hiram Walker wood for the bar top, plush seats from the old Jumer's Black Bear Lounge, and even an 1867 jail cell (where you get confined if you try to come in without knowing the password--which, by the way, is "I hear this plays in Peoria"--but don't tell anyone!)

I'm thinking that the secrecy and exclusivity are a perfect setting for my magic, and I'm excited about the opportunity to share my close up magic with my central Illinois customers and friends once more.  I hope to see you there soon!