Do you believe in magic?

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Illusionist Tristan Crist finds audience amid coronavirus

by Mike Ramczyk CORRESPONDENT

How can you still provide family-friendly fun and entertainment indoors during a pandemic?

Well, Tristan Crist Magic Theater in Lake Geneva is proving it’s not only possible, but also people can feel safe and still enjoy themselves.

Rated the No. 1 tourist attraction in Lake Geneva, the local illusion king has been thrilled and fortunate to be able to have shows this summer.

“We are thrilled with the responses to our show so far this summer and appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we practice social distancing and limit capacity at the theatre in 2020,” according to the company’s Facebook page. “There truly isn’t a bad seat in the house with empty seats on both sides, in front and behind each family.”

“It has been a blessing to be able to escape reality and spread the joy of entertainment each and every night thanks to you, our wonderful audience members. We look forward to seeing you yet this season.”

Sawing Shannon in half doesn’t sound right, as that would constitute killing someone in real life, but in the illusion world, the possibilities of stretching the imagination are endless.

From disappearing acts to suspension of the mind, Crist brings a sense of humor and fun to his act.

Shows during the summer season were running seven days per week. The theater remains open year-round with season schedules

Crist says social distancing is working well, and people are very respectful of each other.

“Most of our audience members are tourists who are staying at the area resorts as well as locals within an hour drive of Lake Geneva,” Crist said. “We are proud to be the No. 1 Lake Geneva attraction and ‘Thing To Do’ on Trip Advisor for five consecutive years. It is an honor to have become a major part of the Lake Geneva tourist experience with many repeat guests coming back year after year.”

Crist has managed to still do what he loves, and provide a nice distraction during these uncertain times.

“This year more than ever live entertainment is an escape from the problems of everyday life,” Crist said.

Remember empty toilet paper shelves was an issue when the COVID-19 pandemic started? Well, it’s not just a funny Facebook meme.

“Our biggest challenge in 2020 has been purchasing toilet paper. No joke!” Crist said. “With shows running every night we have had to search far and wide to keep it in stock.”

Illusionist Tristan Crist – shown sawing his assistant Shannon in half in a promotional photo – has been able to maintain a schedule of shows at his Lake Geneva Theater during the coronavirus pandemic. GENERAL MANAGER Sue Z. Lange

EDITOR IN CHIEF Ed Nadolski

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Vicki Vanderwerff

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Heidi Schulz

SALES Pete Hansen Tamera Hamilton

SPECIAL SECTIONS Karen Dubinsky

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tom Flatow

The Spirit of Geneva Lakes is a complimentary publication, distributed from I-94 through west Kenosha County, to and including the Geneva Lakes area in Walworth County, Richmond Illinois, plus Burlington and Waterford in Racine County.

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