When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Monday Night Magic
Why Monday Night Magic is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Monday Night Magic is New York City's longest-running Off-Broadway magic show, offering an intimate and unique entertainment experience every Monday at 8 p.m. The show is held in a cozy theatrical setting at Monte's Trattoria, where guests enjoy close-up and parlor magic performed by world-class magicians. The venue features a private upstairs dining room, providing a welcoming atmosphere enhanced by a three-course Italian meal included in the ticket price. This combination of live magical performances and delicious dining makes Monday Night Magic a fantastic place to meet up with friends and enjoy an evening filled with amazement and laughter. The show often incorporates comedic elements and audience participation, making it an engaging and interactive experience. Additionally, the holiday series at The Cutting Room offers special themed shows throughout the year, from Valentine's Day to Thanksgiving, providing variety and festive excitement. The affordability and variety make it feel like comfort food for magic lovers—a warm, entertaining night out that keeps audiences coming back week after week.
Here's what people think of Monday Night Magic
As of recent, Monday Night Magic holds a 4.6-star rating based on 75 reviews.
Reviews of Monday Night Magic reflect strong appreciation for its unique blend of magic and convivial atmosphere. Many users praise the show for its intimate setting, exceptional magician performances, and the inclusion of a savory Italian meal, which adds great value and enjoyment to the experience. Positive reviews highlight the friendly, interactive vibe and the consistently high quality of the magic acts. Guests also enjoy the show's vaudeville-inspired humor and the opportunity for audience participation, making it a perfect outing for groups and families alike. However, some negative reviews mention that the ticket price can be considered steep by some visitors and that the setting, while cozy, may feel small or crowded on busy nights. A few attendees noted variability in performances from week to week, which is common in shows featuring rotating acts. Overall, the reviews conclude that Monday Night Magic delivers a memorable and charming experience, especially valued for its combination of entertainment and dining in a historic NYC location, making it a beloved weekly tradition for locals and visitors who enjoy live magic shows.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mark Davis
The ticket said show started at 8:00 pm until 10. We arrived promptly at 8:00 and was told the show would start when the others had completed their dinner. By 9:30, the show had not started and we left. Had seen the show at Players and enjoyed it. But stay away from Monte’s at 97 MacDougl, the upstairs of an Italian restaurant.
aldo crepaldi
Brought family to dinner and close up magic show. Easy to say it will be something we will remember for all our lives. Simply fantastic and not to miss. Amazing!
Ashley Hope
Really excellent experience-- of NYC, of good entertainment. Saw two Broadway shows, this was better than both. The headliner, Master Magician Chris Capehart, was a superb performer, equally good comedian as he was a magician. All ages were totally enthralled, everyone left high on the occasion. This is a sure thing.
Evelina Ganas-Ismakov
Loved the show. The interactive portion was also really fun and the food was delicious. Good service and lovely atmosphere at the Cutting Room. Teens enjoyed as well.
Yousef Alowayed
Saw Monday Night Magic here and it was a blast. The acts were all funny and amazing. The seats are a but small but not too bad. There aren't a lot of snack or drinks options (wine, soft drinks, candy snacks, water). There are bathrooms downstairs. And you can buy magic books and kits after the show.
How to reach Monday Night Magic
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Why Monday Night Magic may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Monday Night Magic with your friends? When looking for a memorable and unique night out with friends or family, Monday Night Magic in New York City stands out as an exceptional choice. This renowned magic venue offers an intimate and immersive experience that is perfect for groups seeking fun, amazement, and shared moments of wonder. Unlike typical nights out at bars or restaurants, Monday Night Magic combines the thrill of live performance with the intimate appeal of a small theater, allowing everyone in the group to feel close to the action. The show features a rotating roster of top-notch magicians, each bringing their own flair and mystique, so the experience remains fresh and engaging no matter how many times you return. With a family-friendly atmosphere and a rating of 4.6 based on 75 reviews, it consistently impresses attendees with its mix of jaw-dropping illusions, mind-reading, and close-up sleights of hand. Gathering your friends here not only promises an evening filled with laughter and gasps of amazement but also fosters a shared bond as you marvel together at feats that seem impossible. This isn’t just a show; it’s a chance to create unforgettable memories and stories to recount long after the final trick.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Monday Night Magic? Monday Night Magic offers a variety of performances that go beyond traditional stage magic to include close-up magic, mentalism, and interactive illusions. Each show typically features an emcee who guides the evening with charm and humor, providing a seamless flow between the acts and engaging the audience throughout. Attendees can expect different magicians weekly, performing a blend of classic card tricks, inventive rope magic, Rubik’s cube illusions, and surprising physical feats like pulling objects from thin air. One of the highlights is close-up magic during intermissions or special segments where magicians move through the audience, performing tricks right before your eyes—perfect for groups wanting a more personal and up-close experience. This variety ensures that everyone in your party, from magic novices to aficionados, will find something captivating and enjoyable. Moreover, the performances maintain a clean, family-friendly tone that makes it a fantastic outing for mixed-age groups, from teenagers to adults, ensuring no one feels left out.
Why is Monday Night Magic perfect for group meetups? The charm of Monday Night Magic lies not only in the magic itself but also in its intimate venue—The Players Theater—where every seat offers a great view, allowing groups to sit together comfortably and share reactions. The small size of the theater means the performers can interact directly with the audience, heightening the shared experience for all group members. The venue’s historic ambiance adds a nostalgic charm, transporting visitors to the golden age of vaudeville entertainment, which enhances the thrill of seeing world-class magic live. Additionally, the rotating lineup of magicians and regularly updated shows make each visit unique, so groups can return multiple times and still encounter new surprises. This makes Monday Night Magic a flexible choice for meetups, celebrations, or special occasions, as there is always something new to see and experience. The attentive staff also accommodate groups well, with friendly service helping arrange seating and ticketing that suits your party size, making the logistics effortless.
How does the atmosphere and venue enhance the overall experience? The Players Theater, home to Monday Night Magic, is a small, charming theater located in the heart of New York City, providing a cozy and inviting setting that few entertainment venues can match. The vintage decor and intimate seating create a sense of stepping into a bygone era, which complements the timeless appeal of magic itself. This setting elevates the emotional impact of the tricks, as the close proximity to performers generates a palpable sense of wonder and suspense. The space encourages interaction, with magicians sometimes performing tricks right next to the audience, turning spectators into participants and making each moment more thrilling. Unlike large theaters where audiences can feel detached, Monday Night Magic’s environment fosters an inclusive, communal vibe that turns the night into a shared adventure. This atmosphere is ideal for groups bonding through laughter, astonishment, and conversation about the illusions long after the curtain falls.
What practical benefits exist for hosting a meetup at Monday Night Magic? Booking a group outing at Monday Night Magic is straightforward, and the staff are known for their friendly, efficient customer service which helps ensure your experience starts stress-free. Tickets can sometimes be purchased by phone for convenience, allowing you to organize group seating easily. With shows running on Monday nights, this venue fills a unique niche, giving groups a cultural, entertaining option to kickstart their week on a high note. Its central location in New York City makes it accessible by various modes of public transportation, a big plus for groups traveling together. Moreover, the theater’s family-friendly programming means you don’t have to worry about inappropriate content, making it a safe and comfortable choice for multi-generational meetups. Finally, the consistently high ratings reflect guest satisfaction and the quality of entertainment promised, giving your group confidence that this will be a hit event everyone will enjoy and remember.
What sets Monday Night Magic apart from other entertainment venues? Monday Night Magic has the distinction of being New York City’s longest-running magic show, signaling longevity and consistent popularity in a competitive entertainment market. Its reputation is bolstered by accolades such as the "Best of Manhattan" from The New York Press and praise from TimeOut NY, which highlights it as the city’s premier magic venue. Unlike many magic shows that rely on spectacular but often impersonal illusions, this venue emphasizes close interaction and a variety of magic styles, appealing to a broad audience. The fact that the magician roster changes frequently means there is always something to look forward to, and repeat visitors can continue to be surprised and delighted. This variety keeps the energy fresh and gives groups a dynamic experience that feels like being part of an exclusive magic community in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. For these reasons, Monday Night Magic offers not just a show but an ongoing adventure in live performance art that makes it a top choice for gatherings.
How does the show accommodate different group interests and demographics? Monday Night Magic caters to a diverse audience by offering performances that are both family-friendly and intellectually stimulating. The magic is crafted to be clean and appropriate for all ages, ensuring that families with teenagers or young adults can attend comfortably without concern over content. Moreover, the inclusion of mentalism and storytelling elements adds a layer of depth that appeals to adults and curious minds who enjoy psychological intrigue alongside visual wonder. For groups that include novice fans and magic enthusiasts alike, the rotating acts keep the content varied, from straightforward sleight of hand to complex, mind-bending illusions, so everyone can find something to appreciate. The show's hospitable environment encourages interactive participation, allowing group members to engage at their own comfort level, whether it is simply watching or being part of a trick. This thoughtful programming makes Monday Night Magic accessible and enjoyable for multi-generational groups and mixed-interest parties.
What are some last tips for making your meetup at Monday Night Magic special? To get the most out of your evening, consider booking your tickets early, especially if you are coming with a larger group, to secure seats together and avoid last-minute hassles. Arriving a bit early allows your group to settle in, absorb the theater’s unique atmosphere, and get ready for an evening of magic and fun. Pay attention to the intermission, when magicians often perform intimate close-up tricks among the audience, giving your group a rare chance to experience magic just inches away. Engaging with the performers and the host can also enhance your experience, as interactions often leave lasting impressions and personalized memories. Finally, keep an open, amazed mindset—magic is all about wonder and surprise—and sharing that sense of marvel with your friends will turn Monday Night Magic into one of the most magical nights out you’ll ever have.
Overall, Monday Night Magic provides a compelling venue for hosting a memorable gathering, boasting exceptional entertainment, an intimate and charming theater, and an environment that encourages connection and shared joy with your friends or family. Whether for a casual meetup or a special celebration, it offers a unique, crowd-pleasing alternative to typical social outings that your group won’t soon forget.