I watched Derren Brown for the first time at Birmingham Hippodrome - and it left me questioning reality

I grew up watching Derren Brown on the TV putting people to sleep, and blurring the lines between illusion and reality.

It fascinated me and I wanted to know how he did it, was it fake, were people were set up? So when I was offered free review tickets I jumped at the chance.

First things first, it was a really great show and I was entertained throughout. And also pretty on edge throughout as he throws a frisby into the crowd to randomly choose people. But, luckily I was not chosen. Big phew!

The woman next to me also felt the same about not wanting to be chosen. She said she would throw the frisby to someone else if it landed on her!

I can’t really go into details about the show as it will be a massive spoiler to those who go and watch it as Derren Brown continues his tour.

But what I can say is that Derren Brown’s latest show called ‘Only Human’ sees the psychological illusionist perform set pieces and hypnosis.

From the very start you are questioning your reality, and whether you are being set up. There is lighting, projections, cameras - all there to create a sense of unease while Derren Brown’s voice is calm and quiet.

Throughout the performance he commands the stage and the audience and during some of his set pieces I was left thinking ‘how on earth did he just do that?’. Some parts were mind-blowing.

And throughout the show I came to realise how the audience works with his psychology, suggestion and stagecraft.

Some are willing subjects, some chosen by the throwing of a frisby, some are sceptics. For example I spoke to one man who was involved after the show and he said he agreed to be part of it - but still no one in the room knew he was the culprit and yet the audience narrowed it down to him through Derren Brown’s masterful work.

It was really quite extraordinary to watch, and I still don’t get how Derren Brown does it - but it is really clever.

It wasn’t just a magic show but a theatrical performance, that engages you, makes your mind work. It is clever, chaotic, brilliant, and the standing ovation at the end said it all.