Estes Park, Colorado, is known for its scenic beauty, historic charm, and the iconic Stanley Hotel. A place that many recognize for its history and role as a muse for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” the Stanley Hotel is also a hub for unique experiences. One such experience is the Underground Theater, where magic and storytelling come to life under the masterful direction of illusionist Aiden Sinclair. In a recent interview with real estate agent Gerald, Aiden shared his remarkable journey and the evolution of his career at the Stanley, offering a glimpse into the magic that lies beneath the hotel’s storied walls.
From Aspiration to Reality
Aiden’s connection with the Stanley Hotel began over a decade ago when he first visited the historic site. Captivated by its atmosphere, he envisioned the hotel as a perfect venue for a magical performance. “It was this amazing place, and it just felt like a great place to put a show in,” Aiden recalled. However, his initial proposal to perform magic shows was dismissed by hotel management, who found the idea far-fetched. Instead of being discouraged, Aiden remained persistent. A twist of fate eventually led to a meeting with the hotel owner, where he was able to showcase his talent during a convention in the lobby.
His determination paid off. The owner, impressed by the large crowd Aiden had gathered, agreed to a trial performance on the Fourth of July. The event was a resounding success, attracting 300 attendees and proving the potential of a permanent show at the Stanley. This marked the beginning of a mutually beneficial partnership, leading to a revenue-sharing agreement that established Aiden as the resident illusionist.
Crafting an Experience Beyond Magic
While many magicians focus on sleight of hand and visual tricks, Aiden’s approach to magic is different. He sees it not merely as entertainment but as an art form meant to evoke emotion and connect with the audience on a deeper level. “It’s easy to fool somebody,” Aiden explained, “but it’s a little bit harder to make people feel something.” For him, magic serves as a tool to punctuate a narrative, allowing stories to come to life in a way that feels both real and otherworldly.
This narrative-driven approach inspired the creation of the Underground Theater. Situated beneath the historic carriage house, the theater itself adds an element of mystery. Audience members enter through a hidden bookcase door, descending into an intimate, immersive space where history and magic intertwine. The walls of the theater are lined with reclaimed wood from the original 1909 structure, adding to the ambiance and providing a tangible connection to the past.
A Global Stage for Theatrical Magic
Over the years, the Underground Theater has earned a reputation as one of the premier venues for theatrical magic. Unlike other magic shows that might feature standard tricks or repetitive acts, every performance here is unique, with magicians from around the world presenting narrative-driven shows. The focus on storytelling sets the Underground apart from places like the Magic Castle in California, where visitors might see different magicians performing similar tricks week after week. At the Stanley, each show is crafted to stand alone as a one-of-a-kind experience.
Aiden’s commitment to providing high-quality performances also extends to the logistics of the shows. Initially, the team had to adapt to using various available spaces in the hotel, moving the set daily to accommodate other events. Recognizing the value and growing popularity of the shows, the hotel eventually built the Underground Theater, ensuring a permanent space dedicated to Aiden’s vision. This decision not only improved the efficiency of the operations but also allowed for a consistent environment that enhances the storytelling magic.
More Than Just a Show: A Passion for History and Storytelling
The Underground Theater is more than a venue for illusions; it’s a place where history, art, and magic collide. Aiden’s performances often draw from the rich history of the Stanley Hotel and Estes Park, bringing to life the stories of those who came before. From the early 20th-century origins of the carriage house to its time as a tuberculosis hospital and later as a motel, the theater’s setting adds depth to the narrative elements woven into each show.
Aiden’s passion for history and performance is evident in his dedication to transforming each show into a journey. “We take people back in time to meet people,” he said, describing the way his illusions help the audience connect with the past. By blending historical storytelling with magic, Aiden creates an experience that goes beyond mere entertainment, inviting visitors to lose themselves in a world of wonder and imagination.
A Place Where Time Stands Still
For those who attend a show at the Underground, time seems to stop. With no intermission and a no-reentry policy, guests are fully immersed in the performance from start to finish. It’s not uncommon for attendees to express concern about sitting for 90 minutes without a break, only to be surprised at how quickly the time passes. The enchantment of the show leaves them feeling like they’ve stepped into another world, one where the magic of storytelling and illusion reign supreme.
As the Underground Theater continues to draw crowds from around the globe, Aiden and his team remain committed to pushing the boundaries of what magic can be. Their dedication to providing a world-class experience ensures that every visitor leaves not only entertained but touched by the stories shared and the magic performed.
Embracing the Magic of Estes Park
The Stanley Hotel’s Underground Theater stands as a testament to the magic that resides in Estes Park—not just the magic of illusion but the magic of history, storytelling, and human connection. For Gerald, it’s a reminder of the importance of passion and dedication in any field, whether it’s real estate or the performing arts. As Aiden said, “If you get to make a living doing what you love to do, you don’t go to work, you go play.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who understands the joy of pursuing their passion and sharing it with others.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, catching a show at the Underground is an experience not to be missed. It’s a chance to see Estes Park through a magical lens, where history comes alive and stories unfold in the most unexpected ways. The Underground Theater doesn’t just entertain; it inspires, reminding us all that sometimes the real magic is in the stories we share and the history we embrace.