Our Humble Beginnings
The story of how Chris & Ryan Zubrick teamed up to become the award-winning illusionists of Zubrick Magic Theatre is… well, magical. Raised in Michigan, Chris & Ryan each entered into the world of magic independently. Little did they know, many years later, life as duo would begin with a double-booking.
Chris grew up in Laingsburg, Michigan and became hooked on the art of magic after discovering a trick in the bottom of his cereal box. Showing his family and friends the magic trick and seeing the look of amazement on their faces, he was hooked. After high school, Chris was contracted to perform overseas at “Huis Ten Bosch,” a 17th century Dutch-inspired theme park in Nagasaki, Japan. He performed five shows a day, six days a week. It was during this time Chris developed new acts and truly honed his craft.
Ryan is originally from Edwardsburg, Michigan. His love and fascination with magic started when he was given a magic set for his fifth birthday. He clearly remembers how the magic set box became an improvised stage for his performance before some considerate members of his family who were his first audience. After graduating from high school, Ryan enrolled in Chemical Physics at Michigan State University. After the first semester, he knew that Chemical Physics was not for him, and he should study something creative. He changed his major to Technical Theatre, with an emphasis on Theatrical Lighting Design, and graduated with Honors.
In 2005, the two then solo performers both appeared for a show after entertainment coordinators unknowingly hired two magic acts for the same event. Rather than squabble over the limelight, Chris & Ryan quickly put together a two-man act and took to the stage. The result was remarkably impressive. Having two illusionists created a unique blend of humor and mystifying illusion, all the while allowing Chris & Ryan to naturally complement one another as performers.
Together, Chris & Ryan were hired to co-produce and headline at the SandCastle Dinner Theater on the tropical island of Saipan. What was originally a two-year contract turned into seven-and-a-half-year engagement. Then, in 2015, they moved to the SandCastle Dinner Theater on the island of Guam for another five-years. Chris & Ryan’s astonishing brand of magic and grand illusion was performed over 7,000 times and experienced by over two-million guests.
When they decided to bring the show back to the mainland, Chris & Ryan chose to move to Florida. Drawn in and welcomed by the vibrant arts community, they knew St. Petersburg would be the home of the Zubrick Magic Theatre and a refreshing addition to the local scene.
Currently under construction at 1211 1st Ave. N., the theatre is anticipating a Grand Opening in July of 2021. Stay connected with the Zubrick Magic Theatre on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to be the first to know when tickets go on sale. This is one show you won’t want to miss!