Master of illusion returns

He claims no psychic ability and indeed denounces those who do, and yet what he achieves in packed theatres is startling.

He states simply that his shows are a mixture of magic, suggestion, psychology, misdirection and showmanship.

Whatever they are, this very intelligent man leaves audiences gasping and wanting more. I’ve seen him several times, including his last visit to the Waterside, and I can’t wait for his next appearance with Miracle.

He’s with us for a week from Monday July 6 - Saturday 11. Tickets cost from £36 and are available from the box office on 0844 871 7607.

Derren’s talents don’t lie only on stage. He studied law at university, has written several books and is a talented, accomplished artist who occasionally exhibits his work.

Miracle is his seventh full nationwide tour in 13 years and he’s already been on the road with it for several months.

He said: “It is quite a bold show and was a bit of a risk in terms of whether or not it would actually work, whether the effects could actually be obtained and whether people would go with it.”

Suffice to say, that halfway through the tour, he says both elements are working out well.

The shows at the Waterside start at 7.30pm and are not suitable for children under 12 years of age.