Heading into the Theatre Royal there was an interesting electricity in the air, a kind of palpable anticipation.
I was somewhat familiar with Derren Brown, having seen some of his TV specials, but I had absolutely no idea what to expect from this live show, Showman.
Quite by design, Derren Brown wants you to go in blind, to enter the auditorium without any prior conceptions about what to expect from the following couple of hours. I myself was even sworn to secrecy along with the rest of the sold-out audience.
With an open, albeit a rather sceptical mind, I took my seat and prepared myself to be entertained, but not fooled, by the mentalist and illusionist. Then, from leaving the theatre to writing this review, I'm still dazzled and trying to wrap my head around what I saw.
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Now for the real kicker, I can't tell you anything about it. Nothing. No details, no spoilers, no hints about what to expect. I promised not to tell. But what I can tell you about is how it felt to be a part of that audience.
Derren Brown maintains an unwavering stage presence and charisma that effortlessly carries you, and everyone else, through many a stunned silence and moments of wonder. You'll feel invited and welcome, whilst simultaneously daunted by the unknown, the unpredictability of the mystery.
I found myself feeling excited, feeling confused, captivated, bemused, tense, perplexed, and a whole host of other similar synonyms that weren't necessarily in that order. It was as spectacular as it was unique.
The production design blends effortlessly with Derren Brown's performance. Lighting and purposefully magical effects play out like an extension of the man himself, truly immersing you in the space and setting he sets out to create.
Regardless of whether or not you make it on stage, you'll feel involved as part of the show. If you are though, that's a new level of immersion. I experienced it peripherally as my friend beside me left his seat and got a moment in the spotlight, though, again, I can't tell you how or why.
What is already pretty astonishing to watch on TV, is massively augmented in the live show. I highly recommend going to see Showman, even if for no other reason than to address your scepticism. Mine was certainly checked.
Derren Brown's Showman is at Newcastle's Theatre Royal until Saturday September 17. There are limited tickets still available to book.
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