New Member Monday: Nippersink Golf Club & Banquets

Whether you’re looking for a lovely venue to host your upcoming wedding or looking to play a few relaxing rounds of golf, Nippersink Golf Club and Banquets is Walworth County’s “best kept secret” when it comes to resorts in the area. Since the beginning of 2018, Nippersink has experienced a lot of changes and are working on improving this beautiful getaway just over the Illinois border. It’s about time that we share all the exciting things we have learned in our interview about them.

Please tell us a little bit about Nippersink Golf Club and Banquets:

Where are you located?
We are located at N1055 Tombeau Rd. in Genoa City, Wisconsin which is just a few miles over the border from Illinois and less than 10 minutes from Lake Geneva off of Highway 12. We like to say we’re “hidden in the farmlands”.

What is the history of the property?
Nippersink was built in 1922 by a meat packer from Chicago who bought the land to develop his dream resort. It’s had an interesting history as a hangout for guests including Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. It was even rumored that Nippersink was where some of the very wealthy organized crime figures from Chicago would gather in the 1930’s and 1940’s.

What are the new changes/updates guests can look forward to?
I like to say, “If you haven’t been to Nippersink lately, you haven’t been!”
Under the new ownership of Chris & Dennis Holian, there have been some amazing changes and updates and we’re not finished yet! The Clubhouse looks incredible and an Outdoor Pavilion is being constructed just outside of it as we speak to be ready in time for this year’s golf season. The banquet halls have been updated and the hotel has had huge improvements from what it used to be.

Tell us about the Hotel:

What has changed about the hotel?
Everything! Our crew has done a fantastic job with the refresh of the hotel including new carpet and paint throughout the whole building as well as brand new mattresses, bathroom vanities and sinks, and updated lighting. We are going with a very modern rustic theme throughout the whole property.

How many rooms do you have?
The Nippersink Hotel has 32 Rooms.

How many guests comfortably fit in one room?
In a room with 1 King bed, 2 guests are ideal, and 4 guests can fit comfortably in a room with 2 Queen beds.

What amenities do the rooms include?
We have complimentary toasters and coffee makers available as well as mini fridges. We have two Bridal Suites that are reserved at no charge for the Newlyweds who book Nippersink as their wedding venue. These rooms are located on a separate wing from the guest rooms and have a microwave and mini fridge and feature an upgraded bathroom. Two of our rooms on the first floor are handicap accessible.

Do any of the rooms have a view?
We have rooms available that have wooded views or views of our Private Lake Tombeau.

Do you have a swimming pool or hot tub?
Back in the day, Nippersink featured a swimming pool at the main building but it had to be removed years ago. Maybe brining that back will have to be one of our future projects!

Tell us about the Golf Course:

Who designed the golf course?
The golf course was designed by 1896 U.S. Open tournament winner James Foulis, Jr.

What are your rates?
Our rates range from $37-$45 for 18 holes with a cart, depending on the time of year. We do offer 9 holes or walking golfers at lower rates. We also have membership options available for men, women, families, and seniors.

What kind of player is this course ideal for?
Nippersink Golf Course is ideal for the average golfer but gives a serious challenge for the professional from our championship tees.

Do you have a Pro Shop?
We do have a Pro Shop located inside The Clubhouse where you can purchase merchandise and equipment or rent clubs.

Do you book golf outings?
We love booking golf outings! We are so lucky to have been able to host some really fun outings. It doesn’t matter if its 10 guests or 150, it’s always a great time!

What is the best part about your golf course?
I think the best part about Nippersink’s golf course is that it has been restored to pristine playing condition that people will remember from decades ago. Our grounds crew is awesome, and they have put a lot of work into the course. What I also like about Nippersink is the privacy of our country location and the scenic views of the landscape. It really is very relaxing and peaceful here.

Tell us about hosting Banquets & Events:

What services do you offer for Banquets/Events?
We are happy to host events of all kinds including weddings, parties, corporate events, reunions, fundraisers – you name it! We provide everything from the set-up to food and beverage services.

How many banquets rooms do you have? What is their occupancy?
We have two spacious banquet rooms that can accommodate up to 150 guests in the Lakeview Room & 350 guests in the Nippersink Room.

What are the features of the banquet rooms?
The Lakeview Room features a vaulted cathedral ceiling with new lighting fixtures and a grand fireplace while the Nippersink Room has been repainted and updated with LED lighting accents, and both a brand-new dance floor and expansive bar.

What services do you offer for Weddings?
Hosting a wedding at Nippersink is a really special thing for us because it is such an intimate event and we feel honored to be able to be part of it. We do everything we can to give each couple their perfect wedding! We have an outdoor gazebo overlooking our private lake that is absolutely breathtaking. We also offer things such as a bride’s room and groom’s room for their use the day of the wedding and of course the Bridal Suite for the newlyweds at the Nippersink Hotel for the night all at no charge.

Do you have event planners on staff to help plan events and weddings?
Our staff is very involved in the planning of every wedding and special event at Nippersink to ensure that it is a success! We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to all of our guests and we really do treat you like family. It’s not just another wedding or event booking for us – we get just as excited for each event as our guests do!

 

What do you like about being in business in Walworth County/Wisconsin?
Being in business in Walworth County is something really special because of the people. When I say the people, this includes our loyal local residents and companies that support us with their business, the staff that we are lucky to have work for us every year, and the new guests that we get to meet every season or for each new event. Nippersink is looking forward to having its best year yet because of the wonderful changes that have been made, the people who have made it possible, and the ones we can’t wait to meet!

This special place not only has so much to offer, but their facilities and staff are excited to have you join them. Make your memories at Nippersink Golf Club & Banquets.

For more details on go to, VisitWalworthCounty.com!

Or check them out through their social media:

         

Member Monday: Ice Castles WI

The marvels of winter are about to be taken to the next level here in Walworth County. There has been a lot of excitement since the news broke that Ice Castles would be coming to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin in 2018.  Along with excitement, there have been a lot of questions from anxious winter enthusiasts about Ice Castles – Wisconsin and when we get to enjoy the newest winter attraction! I am thrilled to have had an opportunity to interview and learn more about Ice Castles and cannot wait to share the much desired information about this awe-inspiring, must-see winter phenomenon!

Q: Please tell us a little bit about the Ice Castles. 
A: Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring, must-see winter phenomenon that brings fairy tales to life. The frozen attraction is located in six cities across North America. The experience is built using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists. The castles include breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, and fountains.

Q: How and where did Ice Castles get started?
A: Ice Castle began in 2008 when Brent Christensen built an elaborate slide in the front yard of his home in Alpine, Utah, for the entertainment of his kids. He formed his company a year later and built his first large-scale Ice Castle at Midway, Utah’s Zermatt Resort. Since then he has created ice castles all over the United States and Canada.

Q: Who makes the Ice Castles?
A: Each location has a team of builders that are trained to build the Ice Castle. The process is overseen by a site manager, who has worked closely with Brent Christensen to design the castle.

Q: How do you make an Ice Castle? How long does it take?
A: The Ice Castles are made by hand. Our crews grow roughly 10,000 icicles every day and place them throughout the Ice Castle to provide something for the water to freeze to. Over time the icicles just get absorbed into the ice structure. It is roughly a three month process to build the castle.

Q: How many locations do you have Ice Castle displays?
A: We have six locations across the US & Canada.

Q: Where can the Lake Geneva Ice Castles be found, and what are the hours?
A: The Ice Castle will be located on Riviera Beach, 812 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva. The hours will be announced soon.

Q: How should visitors dress to visit Ice Castles? What is appropriate attire?
A: Dress for winter! Warm clothes and winter boots are best. Shoes and boots with flat soles (like dress shoes or cowboy boots) are slippery and not recommended.
Everything inside the Ice Castles is made of ice and snow, including the walking paths. On sunny, warm days, the ice and snow will melt and the surface can become slippery.
Most people don’t have any difficulty walking through the Ice Castles with or without ski poles. However, if you are concerned about your safety inside the Ice Castles, please make your concern known to one of our staff before entering the Ice Castle. When you enter the Ice Castles, you agree to obey the Ice Castle rules and you accept our Waiver of Liability.

Q: How long does it take to go through the Ice Castles?
A: Typically people spend about an hour in the Ice Castles.

Q: Are there any tips & tricks about Ice Castles that visitors should know or keep an eye out for?
A: Here is a link to a blog post on 5 ways to enhance your Ice Castles experience: 5 Tips to Enhance your Ice Castle Experience

Q: What age range is suitable to visit Ice Castles?
A: Ice Castles is an amazing experience for all ages.

Q: How much does it cost? Where can you buy tickets?
A: Online| Mon. – Thurs. |General Admission (12+): $15.95     Child (4-11): $10.95
Online| Fri. – Sun. | General Admission (12+): $18.95     Child (4-11): $14.95

Walkup (Standby) | Mon. – Thurs. |General Admission (12+): $20     Child (4-11): $15
Walkup (Standby)| Fri. – Sun. |General Admission (12+): $25     Child (4-11): $20

Tickets will go on sale late November/early December. We recommend signing up for updates on our website to be notified when tickets go on sale!

Q: Are there group discounts?
A: Yes we offer 15% discount when you spend $150 or more in checkout.

Q: What made you choose to create an Ice Castle in Lake Geneva, WI?
A: We believe the weather in Lake Geneva is ideal for building and sustaining the Ice Castles experience. Additionally, Lake Geneva’s proximity to Chicago, Illinois; and Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin makes it the perfect weekend getaway for those looking to escape the city. Riviera Beach, where Ice Castles will be built, offers a stunning backdrop that will compliment the beauty of the attraction.

Q: How long will Ice Castles be in Lake Geneva?
A: Typically we open late December and stay open until early March- weather permitting. We hope to return again after this season!

Q: Are there special events planned?
A: Yes, we will have Ice Princesses and fire performers. Details will be on our website within the next few weeks.

Q: Can pictures be taken in and of the Ice Castles?
A: Yes, and we want to see them (#icecastles)! Keep in mind that we do not allow tripods, blocking off of any part of the castle, or any props.

Q: Where can people share their experience? (Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
A: We love to see guest photos! Tag us on social media:
Instagram     @icecastles_
Facebook        https://www.facebook.com/IceCastlesWI/

For more information about Ice Castles WI and their upcoming announcements, check out the Ice Castles website and sign up for their newsletter updates, or follow them on their Facebook page.

Also visit the Walworth County Visitors Bureau events calendar
for up-to-date information on Ice Castles, Winterfest 2019
and other great winter fun!

Member Monday ~ Blush By Brittany

What better way to start a Monday than by learning about our newest member, Blush By Brittany! Read on for details from the Q & A session we had recently with Brittany.

Q: How was the name chosen for the business?     A: 10 years ago I was looking for a unique name beside “makeup by brittany” and ‘blush’ rhymed well.

Q: What makes your business unique?     A: My business is unique because I can bring a fun experience to the whole day. You can eat, talk the way you want to, listen to music, etc., all in the luxury of your own home or hotel. Otherwise, if you are stressed the whole day, what happens is all of a sudden you sit down for dinner and you think “Wow, the day is over”.

Q: What services do you offer?     A: Airbrush and traditional make-up at your location of choice.

Q: How far will you travel to a client?     A: Southeastern Wisconsin.

Q: Why did you choose this type of business?     A: I am an acrylic artist on canvas and always had an interest in make-up. I decided in the very beginning, very young, that I only wanted to work for myself.

Q: What training/experience do you have?     A: Aesthetician license (from Vici Park, an Aveda Institute).

Q: If someone would like to book you for their event, is there anything they should know before the day?     A: Please don’t book according to bridal book planners. Most bridal books recommend that you book your make-up/hair stylist 6 weeks in advance. I book up to a year in advance and I rarely have a date available 6 weeks prior. You can still ask me, but if you want a particular stylist, then book them right away.

Q: What kind of events do you book for?     A: Weddings, photo shoots, commercial photography, television…

Q: What is your favorite part about being a local business in Southeastern Wisconsin?   A: Traveling to my favorite cities over and over.

Q: Where can we find you? What are your hours?     A: I only travel on-location. I am flexible on hours and days that I work, depending on what is convenient for the client.

Learn more about Blush By Brittany at blushbybrittany.com and thank you for taking the time to read Member Monday!

Member Monday: Spirit of the Lakes Chorus

Being new to the area makes everything around Walworth County a surprise for me, and meeting the ladies with the Spirit of the Lakes Chorus was an absolute treat! They were all smiles, and I mean ALL smiles! And then they began to sing. My instant thought once they started: WOW. Their haromonies are as friendly and welcoming as their smiles. This genuine group of gals sing their heart out in practice every week, and when they perform for an audience, they wow them too, and often bring home honors of recognition for their talents. Lucky little me got to ask Director Tessa August a bunch of questions about herself as the Director, and the chorus. Read on to learn more about this incredible chorus, and where you can plan to see them perform in the upcoming months.

WCVB: Please tell us a little about Spirit of the Lakes Chorus.
TA: The Spirit of the Lakes Chorus is a women’s chorus, which performs a cappella four-part harmony. We have a great director, we love to sing, we laugh a lot, and we have become great friends on our musical journey. Get ready to sing, laugh, and meet other women who share your love of singing. We are an award-winning chorus! As part of Sweet Adelines International, we compete annually in our Regional Competition, and we often come home with medals to recognize our achievements.

WCVB: What type of music does Spirit of the Lakes Chorus perform?
TA: Barbershop, and other a cappella four-part harmony.

WCVB: Please tell us a little about yourself, as Director of the Spirit of the Lakes Chorus.
TA: I took over the reins as director of Spirit of the Lakes Chorus in July of 2015, after the retirement of co-directors, Joe and Kay Liles. I received my Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance in 2012 from St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI. While at St. Nobrert, I studied in the Voice Studio of Dr. Michael Rosewall with an emphasis in Classical and Opera. I was very involved in  Chamber Singers, Women’s Choir, Vocal Jazz, St. Norbert Abbey Singers, and Knight Theatre during my years at St. Norbert College. A native of Walworth, WI, I moved back to Lake Geneva area and am currently the full time Director of Sales at Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva, and part-time Sales Manager at Gino’s East of Lake Geneva. I have stayed very involved with music by teaching private voice and beginner piano lessons. I also directs the musical production at myr high school alma mater, Big Foot High School, in Walworth. I am thrilled to to be the new director of Spirit of the Lakes!

WCVB: As Director of Spirit of the Lakes Chorus, what is your favorite part of being involved in the chorus?
TA: There is never a dull moment. I work about 75 hours a week in customer service, so to have my at least once a week night to completely escape into music is exactly what I need. My passion has always been music, hence why I have my Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance. My favorite part of Spirit of the Lakes is the love. No matter what is going on, what we’re working toward, or even sometimes what we’re annoyed with…we really do love each other, and we make it through whatever we have to. Yes competition is fun and healthy, yes our performances are important, but if you’re not having fun what’s the point? And I’ll tell you..these ladies like to have fun!

WCVB: What can a visitor expect by attending a rehearsal?
TA: We pretty much throw you in..in a good way. All the ladies are very welcoming. The director will normally ask what part you used to sing in chorus, and perhaps voice test you a little bit to see what section she would most likely have you in. Then it is completely up to you if you sing along or just listen. It’s a great time, and there’s never anything to be scared of!

WCVB: How many members are currently in the Spirit of the Lakes Chorus?
TA: 19 and growing

WCVB: Who can participate in the chorus, and how does one get involved?
TA: Any female singer. Coming by during a rehearsal is great. You can meet us in a relaxed atmosphere, and get to know us a little bit. They can get in touch with the director, or any member, there is contact information on our website!

WCVB: Does Spirit of the Lakes Chorus have any upcoming events?
TA: We do! We will be performing on the Park Stage at the Walworth County Fair on Labor Day. We have a fall performance on Sunday, October 23^rd at the Monte Carlo Room in Elkhorn. We will also have a Christmas/Holiday Concert at Horticultural Hall in December (date soon to be finalized).

WCVB: Does Spirit of the Lakes Chorus host local concerts?
TA: We can! We do a few every year, and can be hired out for performances as well. We usually do about a half hour to an hour of music depending on the event. We love to get out in our local community!

WCVB: Where can the public see Spirit of the Lakes Chorus perform?
TA: At the above performances.

WCVB: Can Spirit of the Lakes Chorus music be purchased?
TA: It can! We have a few CD’s for sale, including a lovely Christmas one. Just contact us for more details!

To learn more about Spirit of the Lakes Chorus, visit their website and follow them on Facebook!

Welcoming Arbor Vista Nursery

Flower gardening and landscaping can be a tough business for home and business owners alike. Fortunately, Delavan has a local nursery that not only has a plethora of trees, plants and shrubs, but that also offers services to help you design exaclty what you have in mind. That nursery is one of the Walworth County Visitors Bureau’s most recent members: Arbor Vista Nursery. We had the treat of doing a little Q&A with Rita, from Arbor Vista and learned about all the amazing things they have to offer.

WCVB: Please tell us about Arbor Vista Nursery.
AVN:  We are a locally owned and operated wholesale nursery of trees, shrubs, evergreens, perennials, and grasses with a retail sales yard for homeowners.

WCVB: How long has Arbor Vista Nursery been in Delavan?
AVN: Established here in Delavan in 1980 and now the size of 40 beautiful acres.

WCVB: What kind of plants, shrubs and trees can be found at Arbor Vista Nursery?
AVN:  We have a wide and varied selection of hardy trees, shrubs, and perennials that are ideal for this area.

WCVB: What kind of specialty plants do you offer?
AVN:  There are plenty of Wisconsin natives and butterfly and bird loving plants we have that we highly recommend!

WCVB: Does Arbor Vista Nursery offer any services?
AVN:. Yes, we provide customer consultation on landscape design, plant health, and delivery and install for purchases. 

WCVB: Do you offer delivery?
AVN:  We gladly do offer delivery in a local radius and with a delivery charge depending on location.

WCVB: Are your plants/products warrantied?
AVN:  Yes, we do warranty for retail buyers, 100% up to two months and 50% up to a year.

WCVB: Are there any upcoming events/sales at Arbor Vista Nursery?
AVN:  We will be having a fall sale on trees beginning in September and recommend keeping an eye on our Facebook page for updates and deals!

WCVB: Where can we find Arbor Vista Nursery, and what are the nursery hours?
AVN:  We are located just past the arboretum on Dam Road (4348 Dam Rd) and we are open currently Monday – Friday 9am to 4pm.

WCVB: If someone would like to visit Arbor Vista Nursery, is there anything they should know before coming?
AVN:   If there are any questions on future landscaping ideas or concerns on existing plants, pictures of the location or of your plant material are always handy to bring in and appreciated!

WCVB: What is your favorite part about being a local business in southeastern Wisconsin?
AVN:  Seeing the beauty and joy greenery and landscaping can bring to individual home owners, businesses, and our local community in whole. That’s what has kept us going for 36 years and counting.

To learn more about Arbor Vista Nursery, please visit thier webiste, or follow them on their Facebook page.

Member Monday: The Historic Steppingstone House

This week’s featured member is the ever charming Historic Steppingstone home in downtown Lake Geneva. Not only is this home full of intrigue, it’s also filled with incredible local history. I had the chance to meet with Charlene Klein, the owner of this lovely private estate, and was delighted by the luxurious style and historic beauty of this home that was built in the late 1800s. This tour is where modern day life meets a bygone way of living, complimented by stunning historical architecture. The stories that Charlene shares are simply icing on the cake!

WCVB: Please tell us a little about the Historic Steppingstone House.
CK: Steppingstone was built in 1875 by Phillip Moore, owner of the Moore Hardware Store in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Italianate in style, it is typical of a “Lake Geneva” house of that time, painted white with dark green shutters.

WCVB: How did you come to acquire Steppingstone?
CK: I decided to move to Lake Geneva in 2003, and found Steppingstone after an extensive search for a family home. I believe that I was meant to live in this charming home and become it’s guardian for as long as possible.

WCVB: What makes Steppingstone unique?
CK: Steppingstone stands as a testament to the hard working full time citizens who made Lake Geneva a center of commerce and culture. After Mr. Moore sold the home to the town barber, generations of  the Chapman family lived in the home until the early 1990’s. I am only the fourth owner of Steppingstone in 141 years!

WCVB: Your brochure states that Steppingstone has been “saved from the wrecking ball.” Would you please elaborate?
CK: After Margaret Chapman’s passing, the home had fallen into disrepair. Scheduled for demolition in 1995, a Lake Geneva craftsman, Ronald Weber, purchased the home and lived in it for 7 years while lovingly restoring it. He replaced and upgraded the electrical, heating and plumbing systems, while retaining all of the original architectural elements. The wavy glass windows, the curved banister, wood trim, exterior shutters, and transom windows are all original to 1875.

Then, as recently as four years ago, the home was threatened once again when the city devised a plan to demolish all of the homes on the north side of Wisconsin Street to erect a parking garage. I, along with several area residents, mounted a fierce protest and after many hours and months of phone calls and meetings with city officials, saved this and the other homes.

WCVB: What is your favorite story that has followed Steppingstone over the years?
CK: I very much like to think about the people that have lived and visited here. I can picture the early days with carriages making their way to the town square just at the end of the block, and pilgrimages down to the lakeside for picnics, and friends and neighbors gathering here. In later years, resident  Margaret Chapman was a singer with the Florentine Opera, and I imagine she and her beautiful baby grand piano filling the house with operatic melodies.

Very recently, though, I had a visitor, Mrs. Vorpagel, who had rented an upstairs room from the Chapmans in the 1940’s. She related to me that being of short stature, she had to stand on the second or third step to give her suitor a goodnight kiss!

WCVB: Do you have a favorite room in the house? If so which room, and why?
CK: Each room has a different character, so that is a difficult choice! I do like to hear the giggles of my grandchildren in the playroom upstairs while they spy through the window at the people on the screened in porch. And that porch is where I take my morning coffee and has been the location of many “girl talks”, buffet dinners for my family and other gatherings. Of course, when I invite friends and family at Christmastime and Santa himself pays a visit, the parlor becomes the center of attention. I can’t omit the wine cellar – cool on hot summer days!

WCVB: What do you like most about owning a property in downtown Lake Geneva?
CK: I love being able to walk to everything and reduce my “carbon footprint”!

WCVB: Why did you choose to open Steppingstone up to the public for tours?
CK: Since 2004 I have opened the home to charitable organizations as well as the AAUW and the like, and everyone always has suggested to me that I do this on a regular basis and give others the opportunity to see the home and hear its story.

WCVB: Can Steppingstone be rented for small gatherings?
CK: Yes! It’s perfect for ladies groups, cocktail parties, off-site meeting groups, etc. The pergola and terrace can also be configured to accommodate an intimate wedding.

WCVB: What does a tour of Steppingstone cost?
CK: $10.00 per individual

WCVB: When is Steppingstone open for tours?
CK: Sundays at 11am, 1,3, and 5 pm. Free parking is available for tour guests.

WCVB: Are there any restrictions or limitations that visitors should know about prior to scheduling a tour?
CK: Steppingstone is not handicap accessible, as there are stairs and uneven terrace surfaces. No beverages or food is allowed on the tour. No smoking on the premises.

WCVB: How can people schedule a tour at Steppingstone?
CK: Best way is to phone or text me at 847-867-8684, but a reservation is not generally necessary. Weekday tours for groups can be scheduled with advance notice. Parking is available for small motorcoach vehicles.

WCVB: Where is Steppingstone located?
CK: 817 Wisconsin Street, Lake Geneva, WI. 3 blocks north of the lake, and two blocks north from Main Street (Rte. 50). ¼ block west of the intersection of Broad and Wisconsin Streets.

To learn more about the Historic Steppingstone home and to see more pictures, visit their Facebook page.

Member Monday: Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre is one of Lake Geneva’s hottest new attractions this year, and I had the opportunity to sit down for a one-on-one convo with the magic man himself, Tristan Crist. He’s full of wit and entertaining humor, and his show delivers just that. If you’re thinking about catching one of his live performances, here’s what you can expect: to laugh, to be impressed and amazed by his illusions, and perhaps to be his “assistant” for a trick or two. He shares heartfelt stories, never misses a beat with his quick wit, and even takes time out after the show to chat with his guests and sign autographs for the little ones. Up close, Tristan is just as charming as he is on stage.

WCVB: Please tell us a little about yourself.
TC: I’m a 33-year-old professional magician and illusionist with a dog, a cat and several beautiful magical assistants.

WCVB: Please tell us about your assistants.
TC: Nancy and Shannon are my two full time assistants.  Nancy has worked with me for the past 8 years and Shannon for the past three years.

WCVB: How did you get your start in the magic business?
TC: I started with card tricks as a young boy, worked my way up to performing at birthday parties and scouting events.  Fast forward 20 years and thousands of shows in venues big and small – I can now call myself a professional!

WCVB: Where have you previously performed?
TC: I spent ten years as a featured entertainer at Circus World in Baraboo, WI performing for over half a million people.  I have also performed at large theatres and performing arts centers throughout the Midwest.  In addition, I enjoy performing for a variety of corporate parties and functions throughout the year.

WCVB: Besides your Lake Geneva location, where was your favorite place to perform and why?
TC: I had a 400 seat theatre at Circus World before coming to Lake Geneva.  It was a favorite place to perform because it was built specifically for my show and included all sorts of special secrets to help with the magic!

WCVB: How did you come to choose Lake Geneva as the destination of choice for your theatre?
TC: I was looking for a tourist destination close to Chicago and Milwaukee that didn’t currently have a permanent evening entertainment option.

WCVB: What is your favorite part of performing?
TC: Seeing the audience reactions!

WCVB: What kind of training do your assistants need in order to perform with you?
TC: Flexibility and a strong work ethic are a must.  Nancy has a gymnastics background and Shannon was a professional water-skier with the Tommy Bartlett show prior to doing magic.

WCVB: What kind of audience does your show cater to? Is your show family friendly?
TC: The show is designed to fool adults, but is certainly appropriate for the entire family audience.

WCVB: How many performances do you do in a week?
TC: During the summer season we will average around 7 shows per week.

WCVB: In addition to illusion mastery, what else can your audience expect at your live performances?
TC: The biggest surprise people consistently mention is how funny the show is.

WCVB: Is it necessary for tickets to be purchased in advance, or can people buy tickets at the door?
TC: Tickets can be purchased at the door, however, the show does tend to sell-out fast so advance tickets are recommended.

WCVB: What is your favorite illusion to perform and why?
TC: Our motorcycle appearance is my favorite because it is so incredibly fast it just seems impossible.  We put a lot of time into rehearsing it to make it what it is today and the audience reactions when a real motorcycle appears onstage in an instant are priceless.

WCVB: What is the most difficult illusion to perform and why?
TC: Our most difficult illusion to perform is our Houdini act that involves a split second switch.  It is a very physically demanding illusion for myself and Shannon which makes it difficult to pull off consistently every night.

WCVB: How long did it take you to learn that particular illusion?
TC: We practiced it daily for 3 months before it was put into the live show.

WCVB: What is your favorite thing about the Lake Geneva area?
TC: We are all enjoying exploring the many restaurants in the area.

WCVB: When you’re not honing your skills or performing, what do you do for fun?
TC: I tend to work on magic around 80 hours a week.  There are tons of things to do to run the business side in addition to the magic.  When I’m not working I am relaxing with my dog and cat, or checking out some local food or drink options.

To learn more about the Tristan Crist Magic Theatre, or to order tickets to one of his upcoming performances, please visit http://www.lakegenevamagic.com. Catch him if you can…