Between Stage and Reality — Local services in Rome

Our unexpected detour in Rome led us to the enchanting doors of 'Tra Palco e Realtà,' tucked away in the picturesque Piazza Della Rovere. This quaint shop was not just a stop but a doorway to a magical world, especially for our 9-year-old aspiring magician.

The magic began the moment we entered. The shop was a wonderland of mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Our son was particularly captivated by the array of card tricks, the classic three cup and ball tricks, and especially the string and ball tricks that left him utterly stunned. Each trick was a delightful spectacle, showcasing the owners' prowess in weaving humor with sleight of hand.

But what truly made our experience unforgettable was how the owners took the time to teach our son the basics of these fascinating tricks. The simple card and item tricks we took home have since become his treasured possessions, practiced diligently with the enthusiasm only a budding magician could possess.

As we prepared to leave, brimming with joy and newfound tricks, the shop owner shared with us one final trick, the “Disappearing Person Trick.” Intriguingly, he claimed that if I left a review and mentioned their shop at the end, they would magically "disappear." Well, color us impressed! So, in the spirit of magic and to test this last enchanting trick, here it goes…

Marco Bellini

(This name is random and just for fun. I don’t really know anyone by this name. I highly recommend you stop by and check...

With so few physical magic stores left in existence, it's an absolute breath of fresh air to find quality purveyors of magical goods and apparatus in the eternal city. Andrea (in fact, every single staff member) was amazingly hospitable. They went out of their way to make us feel welcome, offering coffee upon arrival, and even staying open after advertised hours so that we could take our time. There is something for every magic enthusiast, from self working tricks to rare out of print books (where the good stuff lives). Coin workers will love the various currencies available. A plethora of card designs are also available. It was a truly religious experience visiting the store, and I had just come from the Vatican. I urge every wizard and muggle to visit...

Andrea and his sister Stefanie were charming and welcoming, offering me a cold drink and cup of coffee as I came in. Andrea spent over an hour demonstrating various effects for me and did not try to push the most expensive items. He is an accomplished magician himself and was happy to show me how to do the tricks he demonstrated before I purchased them so I could understand what practice they would require. There is a wide selection of products in the store: card decks, gaffed coins, packet tricks, children’s magic, and numerous close up tricks. Definitely worth a visit if you are a magician...