Content warning: there is audience participation and magical peril. Watch this production at your own risk!
However, it is very funny. Rufus Hound (who I last saw co-starring in a national touring production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, either on its way to the West End or fresh from it – can’t remember) is so affable and watchable, it’s amazing we don’t see more of him. Especially on tv.
Rufus Hound
Yet, in the intimate Palace Theatre, he holds this solo show together. And it’s all about magic, illusion and mesmerism. A full-on, large-scale magic show that has wit, improvisation and topicality thrown in for good measure.
It seems odd to have to say that I can’t really explain what happened during the show. There should be no spoilers! However, it’s enough to know that Rufus recently discovered that his estranged grandfather was a touring showman called The Mesmerist. Gaining access to all the props and instructions, he has recreated what the show would have looked like with the assistance of consultant magician Scott Penrose. So this is his take on his grandfather’s show.
Rufus as The Mesmerist
Overall, I do think there just needs to be a tiny bit more showmanship about the illusions. Many times the audience were unsure whether to applaud at the trick’s climax, or whether there was more to come. We so desperately wanted to appreciate him and we needed guidance with a few more ‘Ta-Daas’. It’s a lovely production and certainly one that will have audiences discussing it long after they have left the theatre.
Rufus Hound pictures Ross Kernahan
Poster Design Watford Palace Theatre
Writers Maheni Arthur, Georgia Crowther, Lancelot Ellis, Christopher York
Director Steve Marmion
Set & Costume Design Jasmine Swan
Magic Consultant Scott Penrose
Dates until Saturday 21st March 2026 Times Show times vary, check with website for details
Location Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ
Box Office https://watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk/events/the-mesmerist
Running Time 2hrs – with an interval Age Guidance 12+