Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magic Capital Close-Up?

Magic Capital Close-Up is a two-day close-up magic convention held annually in Colon, Michigan — the Magic Capital of the World.

The event traces its roots to the Abbott’s Close-Up Convention, which began in the early 1980s. In 2021, we took over the event and rebranded it as Magic Capital Close-Up, continuing the tradition in a refreshed, modern format. Today, the convention stands on its own — focused on high-level close-up magic in an intimate, carefully curated setting.

When does Magic Capital Close-Up take place?

The event runs Friday and Saturday, typically scheduled around St. Patrick’s Day — a weekend we often call “Leprechaun Weekend.”
Dates are announced well in advance.

Where is the event held?

All lectures, performances, and daytime activities take place at Sterlini Magic & Theater in Colon, Michigan.

Evening dinner events are held at the American Legion Hall, located just a few doors away, making it an easy and seamless transition for attendees.

Who is this event for?

Magic Capital Close-Up is designed for:

• Professional magicians

• Serious hobbyists and students

• Collectors and dedicated lovers of close-up magic

You don’t need decades of experience — just a genuine interest in the art and respect for the craft.

Do I need to be a professional magician to attend?

No. Many attendees are hobbyists or students. What matters most is your appreciation for close-up magic and your desire to learn and engage.

How many days is the event?

Magic Capital Close-Up is a two-day event, running Friday evening and all day Saturday.
The schedule includes:

• Close-up performances

• Lectures

• Evening gatherings

How close is “close-up”?

Very close.

Performances are designed so attendees are just feet away from the action. There are no large rooms, distant seating, or bad sightlines — every detail is visible.

How is Magic Capital Close-Up different from other conventions?

The event is intentionally small, focused, and community-driven.

Instead of large ballrooms and packed schedules, Magic Capital Close-Up emphasizes:

• An intimate venue

• Limited attendance

• Easy access to performers

• A relaxed, unrushed atmosphere

The focus is on quality over quantity.

Why aren’t the performers announced in advance?

This is a deliberate choice rooted in tradition and trust.

Many attendees have been coming to the Close-Up Convention in Colon for 20–30 years, some since the very beginning. When we rebranded the event as Magic Capital Close-Up in 2021, that core group continued attending because they trust the experience — not a lineup.

Performer schedules can change, and we never want to announce someone prematurely. This approach supports the long-term stability and integrity of the event and encourages continued community support year after year.

Will the same performers be lecturing and performing?

Yes — but lecture material and performance material are different. Performers are asked to avoid overlap so attendees receive a complete experience.

Is this a public show?

No. Magic Capital Close-Up is a private event for registered attendees only. Tickets are not sold to the general public.

Can I buy tickets or register at the door?

If space is still available, on-site registration may be offered at the door, but availability is never guaranteed. We strongly recommend registering early.

Single-day registrations are not offered. Registration covers the full event (Friday evening and all day Saturday).

How many people attend?

Attendance is intentionally limited to preserve the close-up experience and ensure excellent visibility and access for everyone.

What is included with registration?

Registration includes:

• All lectures

• All close-up performances

• Evening gatherings

• Coffee and donuts at the Sterlini Magic Shop

• Friday night taco bar, sponsored by Five Star Pizza and Grandma Nettie’s

• Saturday night pizza, sponsored by Five Star Pizza

Meals and refreshments are included to keep attendees and performers together throughout the weekend.

Will there be dealers?

There is no traditional dealer room.

Because the event is housed inside Sterlini Magic & Theater, we typically offer on Saturday:

• Special in-store deals

• Attendee-only discounts

• Occasional flea-market-style offerings featuring used, vintage, or collectible magic

Will there be jam sessions?

There are no formally scheduled or announced jam sessions.

After dinner, many attendees naturally gather at the American Legion Hall and often hang out quite late. It’s a relaxed, informal setting where people share stories, talk shop, and sometimes session a trick or two over a couple of cocktails.

Performers are usually right there as well — approachable, welcoming, and happy to spend time with attendees. These moments are unstructured and spontaneous, and often become some of the most memorable parts of the weekend.

Can I bring guests or family members?

All attendees must be registered. Guests without a badge are not permitted into lectures or performances.

Are there nearby hotels?

Colon itself does not have traditional hotels.

However, many attendees stay in local rental homes or private rooms available in and around Colon. There are also hotel options in nearby towns:

• Sturgis, Michigan – approximately 15 miles away

• Coldwater, Michigan – approximately 20 miles away

• Battle Creek, Michigan – approximately 35 miles away

How do I get to Colon, Michigan?

Colon is located in southwest Michigan and is easily accessible by car.
Nearest airports:

• Kalamazoo (AZO)

• South Bend (SBN)

• Grand Rapids (GRR)

Can I film or photograph performances or lectures?

No. Filming, photography, or audio recording is not permitted unless explicitly approved.

Will I feel out of place if I’m new?

Not at all. While many attendees are long-time regulars, the community is welcoming and supportive. If you love close-up magic, you’ll fit right in.

Who produces Magic Capital Close-Up?

Magic Capital Close-Up is produced by John & Tamara Sterlini, owners of Sterlini Magic & Theater and long-time supporters of the magic community.

I still have questions — how can I contact you?

Please reach out through the Contact page on the website or by email. We’re happy to help.