Theatre Review: Derren Brown 'Miracle' - Palace Theatre, London ✭✭✭✭
Derren Brown
‘Miracle’
Palace Theatre, London
Review by Philippa Stubbs
Returning for his thirteenth year of touring and seventh live show,
Derren Brown brings his new creation ‘Miracle’ to London’s west end.
Miracle
Pronunciation: /ˈmɪrək(ə)l/
·
An extraordinary and welcome event that is not explicable by natural or scientific laws and is therefore attributed to a divine agency:the miracle of rising from the grave
·
A remarkable event or development that brings very welcome consequences: it was a miracle that more
people hadn’t been killed: industries at the heart of the economic miracle.
·
An exceptional product or achievement, or an outstanding example of something: a machine which was a
miracle of design[AS MODIFIER]: a miracle drug
(Oxford English Dictionary)
There certainly were some extraordinary and non-explicable events in
this show, but in order to keep the awe, wonder and spectacle of Brown’s
talents, the audience are requested not to share any information on the content
of the show. This makes it somewhat difficult to review, but I think I can
share the following:
The show is split into two section, with the first half
demonstrating Brown’s infamous illusions and mind-manipulation of unsuspecting
audience members. The second half takes the term ‘miracle’ to its more
traditional roots with further audience participation that will have even the
sceptics doubt their beliefs.
Brown delivers with slick timing, and comes across as
overly-confident, adding light humour to the disbelief and nerves that the
audience are no doubt feeling. He alters the way we think and live our lives
and for some, this is a welcome relief.
The stage yielded a simple set but the innovative use of
perspective, projection and lighting enhanced the surreal experiences for the
audience and tapped into their senses. Also, for non-audience members who
follow @DerrenBrown on social media, there is a daily chance to be part of the
show by sending him random words. Check it out.
This was an ingenious show and if you fancy an evening of
astonishment, disbelief, and miracles pop on down to The Palace Theatre and check
out for yourself what can’t be written about!
4 stars ✭✭✭✭
LISTINGS - Derren Brown: Miracle
Palace Theatre
113 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 5AY
Nov 11 to Jan 16 2015
6 shows per week, Monday – Saturday, 7.30pm
Prices: £56.25, £43.25, £31.25, £26.25, £16.25 + booking
Fees. Premium seats available.
All tickets include a £1.25 restoration levy.
Phone Booking: 0844 482 9676
