The most unexpected trick pulled by magic and illusions expert Derren Brown for his latest show is probably his simplest yet: he's not in it.
The master entertainer, whose one-man shows have baffled theatregoing fans for years, has teamed up with long-term collaborators Andrew O'Connor and Andy Nyman to create an illusions show "like no other" for a specially-selected cast of actors and musicians to perform.
Unbelievable will be an evening of "bewildering trickery", fusing theatre and music with jaw- dropping illusions. So far it is planned for dates only in its originating theatre, Colchester's Mercury, in the West End, and at the Palace Theatre in Manchester (August 29-September 2).
Part of the show will be an updated version of a one act play not seen in London in over 100 years. Will, The WItch and The Wolfman will combine comedy, illusion and song at the end of the evening.
"The ambition for Unbelievable is to create an experience you can’t get anywhere else in the world," said Brown. "From the moment the audience sets foot in the theatre, they will be an essential element – indeed, the beating heart of the show."
The show's cast will play multiple roles, while the audience will be at the heart of the production – so much so that Brown is asking audience members prepared to be part of the show to express their interest when they book.
Brown added: “Cast members have been selected for their range of talents and skills. It’s no mean feat casting a show that requires performers to act, dance, and perform magic; this cast will no-doubt be able to transport people into a totally new theatrical world.”
The cast includes a variety of performers who have performed in the West End, several of whom have been nominated for awards. At the same time the cast also includes five people who will appear in the West End for the first time, including Alexander Bean, who was in One Man, Two Guvnors at Bolton Octagon and has appeared at Liverpool Playhouse.
More info and tickets here