Illusionist to return to ‘birth place’ of his act

An illusionist is returning to the “birth place” of his magic act for a new tour.

Derren Brown is bringing his Only Human show to the Bristol Hippodrome in the summer.

The 53-year-old spent more than a decade living in the city after achieving his degree at the University of Bristol.

As a student, he watched a hypnosis show, which ultimately inspired him to embark on his own career in magic.

Although his upcoming show is being kept under wraps, Brown hopes it will be a “psychological rollercoaster” for audiences.

After graduating, Brown took his act to restaurants, parties, weddings and small events in the city in the early 90s, before making his TV debut in 2000.

“It’s all very much rooted in Bristol… it all feels like a birth place,” he said.

Brown said he loves stage shows “more than anything” because each one is unique.

To maintain elements of surprise and mystery, he asks audiences to keep the details of the show secret.

“It’s all about the audience experience, it certainly isn’t about me looking clever.”

Brown hopes his new show will evoke feelings of “amazement” and “delight” for members of the audience, especially for those going through “heavy” times.

“At its heart, we always try to make the show about something else to do with the human experience.

“Life is difficult… when we’re in that place, it can often feel quite isolating or lonely.

“We feel like it’s just us, we’ve failed or we’ve messed up – but actually that’s the human experience.

“It’s the one thing that connects us more than anything,” he added.

Only Human is at the Bristol Hippodrome from 27 – 31 May.