Close Up Magic Reinvented
Australia’s only purpose built Close Up Magic Theatre
Bring your friends for a night unlike anything you’ve ever imagined as you are invited inside a magicians home to see world class sleight of hand and illusion up close in an interactive and totally immersive experience.
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.
The Herald Sun describes the experience as “one mind bending trick on top of another” and our guests are absolutely delighted:
“What a gem! Tim Ellis is a renowned magician and having seen him previously on the big stage, I was intrigued by an ad for his Laneway Theatre. We went along on 14 April with 7 friends and can’t wait to do it again. Recommended for absolutely everybody. This is a perfect mystery night out to surprise people who think they’ve been everywhere/done everything.”
“Hidden behind an old and apparently haunted shoe factory on a major road in Northcote, The Laneway Theatre is an entirely accessible yet secret little purpose-built venue specifically designed to present magic acts. Entirely comfortable, the 32 seats allegedly liberated from a nearby cinema, also offers every audience member a great view of the proceedings. From your first step inside that puts you into a glow-in-the dark graveyard, to all the objects of magic sitting museum-like on shelves and the walls, the Laneway Theatre is a place of excitement and surprise that will draw you back. Still pictures are encouraged. You’ll need them to believe what you’ve witnessed.”
Tayissa Artomonow, TAY ABOUT TOWN
Simon Plant, HERALD SUN
Jeni Wilson, WEEKEND NOTES
Ember Mitchell, THE PLUS ONES
“Ellis prefers performing close-up magic: card tricks, sleight of hand and classic flabbergasting.”
Patrick Boyle, BROADSHEET
Hanford, WEEKEND NOTES
The Laneway Theatre is situated in Northcote near St Georges Road. Full directions are provided at the time of booking to protect the secrecy of the venue.
Most shows run just under an hour. However, the monthly event ‘Sleight Night’ usually runs 90 to 100 minutes with a brief intermission. Latecomers may not be admitted so please be on time.
There are just 32 seats, all with great views, however if you are keen to get a seat in the front row we recommend arriving as soon as the doors open (usually 30 minutes before showtime).
The show operates on a guest list. No need to print your ticket, but maybe print out the directions we’ll email you!
You are more than welcome to take photos and short videos all throughout the venue and during the show. We would love it if you post them – with your feedback – on our Facebook Page and our Trip Advisor listing.
We have a selection of easy magic tricks for all ages on sale, together with souvenir books, an assortment of memorabilia, and Tim’s latest teaching DVD.
Tim is an internationally award winning magician, President of The Australian Institute of Magic, and the creator of The Laneway Theatre. You can read more about him here.
Please notify us in advance if you require access, as we have an alternate entrance for guests with mobility issues.
Yes. We have hosted corporate nights, private parties and sneak preview shows and have worked in conjunction with our nearby restaurants so everybody leaves thoroughly entertained and totally satiated. Call us on 040 88 62442 for more information.
There are lollies, chocolates and drinks available to purchase at The Laneway Theatre. However, if you would like something more substantial we recommend the following restaurants which are less than a two minute walk from the theatre:
