The show is running at the Kent theatre until Saturday, April 11
Derren Brown: Only Human is the illusionist’s latest live show and delivers a mind melting experience for audiences.(Image: Seamus Ryan)
In the world of mentalists and illusionists, few names are as well known as Derren Brown. From thrilling TV shows and acclaimed specials, to mind-bending theme park attractions and live shows shrouded in mystery, the master of all things hypnotism and psychological illusion has certainly garnered quite the reputation.
Brown is now touring his latest project, Only Human, around the UK and Ireland, stopping in our very own Canterbury this week to astonish the minds of the Kent public. The 12+ show has taken residency at The Marlowe Theatre where it will stay until Saturday (April 11), with direction from Andrew O’Connor, set design by Simon Higlett, video design by Simon Wainwright, lighting design by Charlie Morgan Jones and sound design by Beth Duke.
As is long-running tradition with Derren Brown’s live performances, with Only Human being the illusionist’s 11th production, guests and reviewers are urged to keep the actual contents of the show a secret. So, to make sure none of the twists and turns are spoiled for any future audience members, you can read on in confidence that my lips are sealed regarding exactly what happened after the lights went down and the curtains were raised.
Fans of Brown are sure to have a rough idea on what to expect across the two-and-a-half hour show however, so I don’t think it will be a major shock to know that this latest offering features plenty of crowd participation, musings on human nature and brain-melting feats that will have you scratching your head long after you’ve gotten back home. As always, Brown is a fascinating and exciting personality to watch on stage.
His thought-provoking comments on the complexities of the mind ricochet between well-timed jokes and insightful questions, leaving the entire auditorium hanging off every word. Sporting a signature no-nonsense suit, he commands the minimally but carefully designed stage; all eyes are his to bewilder and astonish.
Stories and anecdotes meander between carefully paced segments, blending social experiments, psychological explorations and philosophical debate. At no point in the show is it obvious just what is waiting for the audience around the next corner, and that is exactly where Derren wants you to be.
The atmosphere is of intrigue, unease here and there, and growing excitement before the master of the craft unveils the satisfying final piece of a puzzle that you were not even aware was forming before your very eyes from the moment you sat down. Pay attention to the details because, while your host for the night will be often witty and jovial, this is Derren at his most deliberate, orchestrating a performance which ends with an astounding crescendo, leaving no loose ends behind.
Even as a staunch sceptic, I’ve still been left totally stumped by some of the feats I witnessed for myself that evening and know I will be thinking about them for weeks to come. The electric mood in that theatre after the lights came back on and the standing ovation which came to its end was unlike anything I have experienced or will likely experience ever again.
Ticket prices for Derren Brown: Only Human at The Marlowe Theatre range between £52 and £95. Find the full booking details here.
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