In the realm of entertainment and wonder, Bert Easley’s Magic Tricks have left an indelible mark on Phoenix’s history. For 72 years, Bert Easley’s Fun Shop captivated the hearts of locals, offering a treasure trove of tricks, gags, and costumes that brought joy to all who entered its doors.

Former Phoenix resident Athia Hardt fondly reminisces about the magical experience of stepping into Bert Easley’s Fun Shop, describing it as a realm of endless fascination filled with intriguing items for all ages. The shop, a postwar gem, was a popular haunt for Halloween enthusiasts seeking costumes and quirky accessories like funny neckties and fake mustaches, making it a go-to destination for those in search of imaginative and whimsical gifts.

Established in 1947 by the charismatic Bert Easley, the Fun Shop quickly became a hub of merriment, offering a wide array of pranks and illusions that never failed to elicit laughter. Bert Easley, a man of many talents, transitioned from a background in journalism and dance to a career in magic, enchanting audiences with his repertoire of over 2,000 magic tricks.

Throughout its seven-decade legacy, Bert Easley’s Fun Shop served as a haven for both aspiring magicians and mischievous kids alike. The store’s move to McDowell Road in 1955 marked a new chapter, expanding its offerings to include a gag counter and a magic counter, attracting former showbiz professionals to engage customers with their expertise.

The memories created within the walls of Bert Easley’s Fun Shop are as diverse as they are enduring. From explosive pranks causing unexpected reactions to whimsical disguises like Groucho glasses, patrons like financial advisor Jon Rosenthal and graphic designer Jim Bolek recall moments of hilarity and mischief that have become part of their personal histories.

Beyond its role as a purveyor of magic and laughter, Bert Easley’s Fun Shop was a place of learning and community. Bert Easley himself mentored young magicians through the Hocus Pocus Magic Club at Phoenix Union High School, nurturing a new generation of performers and enchanters.

As the curtains closed on Bert Easley’s Fun Shop in 2018, its legacy lives on in the hearts of those who experienced its magic. Bert Easley’s enduring impact on the Phoenix community resonates through the stories of laughter, wonder, and camaraderie shared by all who were touched by his enchanting world of fun magic tricks.