Writers: Derren Brown, Andy Nyman, and Andrew O’Connor
Directors: Andrew O’Connor and Andy Nyman
Note: Derren Brown requests all audience members keep the details of this show a secret – not to share information in conversation, across social media and in reviews. This review will not contain any spoilers or information about any specific ‘tricks’ in the show.
Derren Brown is, by his own words, a mentalist; a person who is prominent in the ‘dubious art of getting into your head’. As fantastical and amazing as that sounds, it does, however, sell him short. Very short.
Brown has, pretty much, singlehandedly reinvented hypnotherapy as an entertainment. He has taken it from an also-ran in a variety show or a precursor to a more traditional magician, to not only a top of the bill act but also, as here, a standalone attraction in its own right.
Having previously developed fantastical shows as extreme as live Russian Roulette or manipulating members of the public to commit a bank heist, here Brown takes a less sensational and more emotional narrative. Anchored around the power of memory, Showman draws upon the relationships within our lives, his relationship with his father, the memories we each have of people and things and how, ultimately, this creates an interconnectedness between us all.
From this premise he guides us, or possibly controls us, on a journey where he handles items and people in the most exquisite way. This is a show where the audience is heavily involved. Our minds are what makes his show work, and he taps into them for all they’re worth. Of course, this review won’t spoil the fun, or the unwritten promise of secrecy, however there’s more than one moment where even the most jaded critic of mentalism will sit slack jawed in disbelief.
Showman is at once thrilling, unbelievable and, surprisingly, emotional. Brown’s talents to confound, distract and, quite possibly, control is breath-taking. But what elevates this to something truly magical is the man himself. In a space of confoundment, he is its calm, nurturing and philosophical heart. He creates stories that touch our hearts, gets us leaning forward in our seats and entangles us, willingly and enthusiastically, into his magical web. He’s also wonderfully quick-witted.
Showman runs for over 2 ½ hours, but the time zips by. The Apollo is far from a comfortable theatre, but once the performance begins, you’d never notice. This could be the greatest show in the West End… or maybe that’s what he’s convinced us all to believe. Either way, this really needs to be seen to be believed.
Runs until 18 March 2023
