AUSTRALIA’S HOME OF

MAGIC

“Tim Ellis’s Laneway Theatre is like a posh private club haunted by Melbourne’s best magicians (including Tim), where you’re the guest of honor enjoying a command performance.”

– Teller (Penn & Teller)

What Is The Laneway Theatre?

Hidden down a dark laneway in Northcote you’ll discover one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets. From the moment you enter you’ll be transported into a world very few even realise exists.

Created by acclaimed magician, Tim Ellis, the Herald Sun describes the experience as “one mind bending trick on top of another” and our guests are absolutely delighted.

Learn more about Tim Ellis

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The Laneway Theatre

4.9

Based on 130 reviews

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Rachael H.

00:43 08 Jan 26

Luke H.

12:38 30 Dec 25

The Laneway Theatre is an absolute hidden gem. From the moment you step in, you know you’re in for something special. The intimate setting makes the magic feel impossibly close — every moment is engaging, clever, and genuinely mind-blowing. You’re not just watching a show — you’re part of the experience.

Ildi R.

01:49 15 Dec 25

I booked a show. And I got an experience. I would highly recommend The Laneway Theatre. If you are looking for something different and special this is the place to go! I will definitely look for another excuse to go to another show!

Helen L

07:32 07 Dec 25

What a find! Loved this little venue, so much more than what we were expecting. Perfect for close up magic. Really interesting space to explore before the show, entering as you do through a coffin. And Tim does put on a good show! He obviously loves what he does and this is reflected in every well thought out aspect of the theatre, from the comfy ex-cinema chairs (complete with cupholders) to the original music score and snacks & soft drinks in the foyer.
A great value night out, definitely worth checking out.

Response from the owner 10:08 07 Dec 25

We are so pleased that you discovered us. We hope to see your smiling faces in our venue for many years to come.

Fabrice M.

01:15 03 Dec 25

A mix of amazements and laughter, brilliant.

Response from the owner 01:53 03 Dec 25

Thanks so much for joining us 🙂

Matt C.

23:31 18 Nov 25

Blew my mind 🤯

Response from the owner 01:33 19 Nov 25

It's what we do 😉

Dave L.

01:15 16 Nov 25

Stepping into The Laneway Theatre is a magical adventure that begins long before the house lights dim. The venue is tucked away down a secret alley in Melbourne, so be sure to read the confirmation email for the code to gain access. This 32-seat venue was created and is run by master magician Tim Ellis himself. The foyer contains a treasure trove of magic memorabilia and curiosities. The intimate, cozy atmosphere immediately sets the stage for a unique and engaging performance that simply can't be replicated in a larger theatre.
Tim Ellis is a celebrated figure in the global magic community. He is a master of close-up magic and sleight of hand. His performance is characterised not just by technical skill, but by genuine charm, wit, and a highly interactive approach. Rather than relying on grand illusions, Tim excels in intimate deception, performing tricks just metres from the audience. This close proximity is the show's greatest strength, transforming the performance from a passive viewing experience into a collective journey of astonishment.
What truly elevates the experience is the high level of audience participation. Tim effortlessly engages audience members, often incorporating their personal thoughts into the climax of the tricks. Moments of mind-reading and impossibly accurate predictions draws gasps, spontaneous applause, and simply stunned silence!
Tim's performance style is warm and family-friendly. He blends sophisticated magic with natural humour and heartfelt storytelling.
Whether you're a lifelong magic enthusiast (like me) or simply looking for an unforgettable night out with friends, Tim's show at The Laneway Theatre is a world-class, intimate magical experience.

Response from the owner 03:52 16 Nov 25

Thanks so much Dave. I am so pleased you were finally able to make it and I am humbled by your kind words

Kerry A.

11:44 08 Nov 25

What a great unique venue for a show. Tim was very welcoming. The small audience with lots of participation made for a great night.

Avi G.

11:19 08 Nov 25

great venue, great magic, great night!! Definitely go see

Ricky

23:28 18 Oct 25

It was interesting to follow Tim's instructions to try to find his theatre. He was very welcoming at the reception desk and the theatre was decorated with a very magical feel.

The show was very interactive and his fantastic performance was worth every penny!

Kirsty S.

03:27 29 Sep 25

We had a lovely night, Tim was a fantastic host/magician and we'll definitely be returning for some more magic and wonder!

Mark T.

11:32 27 Sep 25

Very very interesting and entertaining experience, and really impressive magic!

Ross Y.

14:00 20 Sep 25

A very fun, intimate close up magic show with some clever modern touches. A great way to spend an evening. How did he do it? This is Clearly Impossible!

Chloe A.

11:26 20 Sep 25

The first time I experienced magic in a basement was in 2006, and now the second time has happened tonight. A fabulous show Tim, thank you so much!

Robert C.

07:51 08 Aug 25

Absolutely fantastic night of magic.

Don T.

01:36 03 Aug 25

Tim Ellis is no ordinary magician but one that leaves you perplexed. Ok, we all know that 'magic' incorporates slight of hand, misdirection and palming but in a close up scenario with an audience on your case this is difficult to get away with but Tim does, leaving you mouthing 'WOW'. I had front row VIP Tickets but at the time of booking I didn't realise that meant Victim In Performance. To be fair Tim enlisted the assistance of numerous other audience members but only if they were willing to partake. The theatre is a small intimate venue so it doesn't take long for the audience and magician to become 'family'. I truly enjoyed myself and have now booked in for 'Magic Sports' in September.

Wendy H.

07:17 17 Jul 25

LJ M.

10:28 16 Jul 25

The best place to watch magic in Melbourne! Tourist or local, you must go see this venue!!

Stephen A.

04:49 08 Jul 25

An outstanding venue with sensational magic

Samantha D.

08:20 29 Jun 25

What an absolute treat!! Had no idea what to expect, but we were delighted with the whole experience. Thank you Tim Ellis for a wonderful night full of laughter, fun and magic!!

Aaron F.

21:10 28 Jun 25

Absolutely fantastic, a must see, great night out!

lizsterine

00:57 24 Jun 25

Excellent little theatre for entertaining close up magic. We had a lovely time and are planning to return with more friends we know will enjoy it. 🙂

Tim was a master at working with the crowd and dazzling us with his wonderful magic and humour. A true experienced professional. A highly enjoyable show.

We look forward to see what impossiblities await us next time! 😉

Hui Kuang L.

02:16 15 Jun 25

Nicola A.

23:58 17 May 25

Simply incredible! I've been twice, and I know I'll be back again for future shows. Tim is captivating and I love the fact the show is in a quirky, intimate setting.

Bryan A.

21:39 27 Jan 25

An absolute delight!

Simone C.

04:07 22 Dec 24

Fantastic! Great night out! Its the second time I have gone and not my last!

Justine G

12:23 07 Dec 24

What an amazing night. Absolutely loved everything about the show. Fantastic night can not recommend enough

Kamalpreet K.

03:40 17 Nov 24

It was a lot of fun!! I highly recommend!

Robert P.

10:07 16 Nov 24

Alayna F.

13:01 17 Aug 24

This is an absolute hidden gem. The theatre is magical before the magician does anything at all, with so many hidden bits and pieces to explore. We (my 16yo daughter and I) saw Tim Ellis performing close up magic and it was so much fun. We'll be back again and again. Highly recommend!

Angela S.

10:43 04 Aug 24

Tim is a great entertainer. He involved and engaged the audience with seamless magical tricks. He definitely knows his craft and we thoroughly enjoyed the show. It was a fun night in a beautiful little theatre, down a spooky little laneway. My friend wondered where on earth I was taking her, which added to the excitement! We highly recommend and look forward to going again when next in Melbourne.

Roxanne J.

00:22 16 Jun 24

The talented Tim Ellis shares his personal journey of discovering magic whilst entertaining his audience. This is a unique performance where as an audience member you also get an interactive experience. Highly recommended. Definitely ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Anastasia L.

01:15 09 Feb 24

Magic! Whats not to like about magic. An intimate space with a quirky theme and comfortable chairs. We had a great evening there. Suitable for older children, nothing rude, just clean fun.

Anna

04:18 15 Oct 23

First time being at the Laneway Theatre. The show was very interesting and interactive, with many surprising magic tricks, cosy atmosphere, creative decorations. Tim was really nice and attractive. Definitely will return next show.