Chicago just built the largest magic venue in the world—take a peek inside

The last time I set foot in this historic Chicago mansion built in the heart of Michigan Avenue, I’d been served one less-than-generous slice of lukewarm prime rib. This is back when it was a Lawry’s steakhouse. I remember white tablecloths, silver serving trays, one decent staircase, and just the stodgiest of old rooms that felt less like I was in the Gilded Age than at a funeral parlor.  Now, when I step inside the lobby, a large wooden door slides open in front of me. I enter a room with a...