The Zubrick Magic Theatre in downtown St. Pete, where magicians Chris and Ryan Zubrick typically perform family-friendly comedy and grand-scale illusions, is temporarily serving a new purpose.

The main stage inside the intimate 90-seat theatre at 1211 1st Avenue North is currently filled with air mattresses and the Zubricks’ personal items - becoming a makeshift sanctuary for the couple and their seven-year-old son, Oliver, until the theatre reopens later this month.

Like many residents in St. Petersburg, the Zubricks' single-family home suffered substantial damage from Hurricane Milton when it made landfall last week near Sarasota as a Category 3 storm.

“We evacuated [in preparation for Hurricane Milton]. Returning home, we discovered that our home was filled with water,” Chris said in a Facebook video. “Uninhabitable at this point, the home has to be completely rebuilt on the inside.”

Leaving most of their belongings on the curb, the duo salvaged what they could and headed to the theatre where they will reside for the foreseeable future.

As for the 11 doves that star in the Zubricks’ shows, the feathery performers are safe in an aviary, Ryan said in a conversation with St. Pete Rising.

While the theatre wasn't structurally impacted by the storm and the stage is functional, the Zubricks are unable to perform due to a lack of electrical power.

“It's difficult for us to imagine going out into the community and offering shows when people are dealing with the same difficulties as we are,” Chris said.

The Zubrick’s life in St. Pete began a few years ago after embarking on a cross-country trip in search of a new home on the mainland, after a successful 13-year run in Guam, where the duo performed over 7,500 shows for more than 2 million people.

Beginning in Santa Monica, the duo finally stumbled upon St. Pete. And it was love at first sight.

The Zubricks were excited to trade in Michigan winters for St. Pete sunshine. The couple was also attracted to the Bay area’s robust tourist industry and LGBTQ-friendly culture.

Zubrick Magic Theatre debuted in the EDGE District of St. Pete in 2021.

Now, they need help keeping the magic alive.

“Magic is our passion. We love nothing more than to be on stage and share our magic with our community. But it is also our livelihood. And if we are not performing, it’s very very difficult,” Chris said.

“Ryan and I don't like to ask for help, but we need your help.”

The Zubricks are asking the community to help by purchasing tickets for future performances, either for yourself or a gift certificate for a friend. You can also donate directly.

With the community's help, the Zubricks plan to find a semi-permanent home and resume business operations as soon as possible, Ryan said.

The next Zubrick Magic show is scheduled for October 25th. The popular Holiday Spectacular show is still set to debut in November.

Follow Zubrick Magic Theatre on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and show announcements.