Tristan Crist, Belfry are surviving 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.
On a recent Sunday, the parking lot was about half-full in anticipation of a 5 p.m. show, which allows guests to safely social distance from others.
“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, Tristan Crist brings a sense of humor and fun to his act.
Shows are currently running seven days per week: Monday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.
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 in an Aug. 9 interview. “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 to enjoy the show.”
Some area shows go on
With all the complications due to coronavirus, Tristan Crist Magic Theater is one of few area venues where the show must go on.
Large movie theaters like Lake Geneva’s Emagine Theater aren’t showing movies, mainly because Hollywood isn’t currently releasing any to them.
However, Plaza and Geneva 4 Theater owner Shad Branen said Saturday they are still offering free, throwback movies in Burlington, and Geneva 4 has turned more focus to its performance stage, which has stand-up comedy and musical acts.
At Belfry Music Theatre off Highway 67 in Williams Bay, concerts are being held every two weeks, with another slated Aug. 27-29, an Eagles Tribute.
But 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. “We are thrilled to be able to continue to offer an hour of magic, laughs and joy to our visitors.”
Remember the empty toilet paper shelves in the supermarket? And how your b-4288 toilet paper dispensers were affected 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. Hopefully by 2021, that situation will improve.”
