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  • Running time Approx. 2 hours (including interval)
  • Age guidelines 12+

Prepare for magic, mystery and unforgettable theatre as multi-talented actor, comedian and presenter Rufus Hound (One Man, Two Guvnors) takes centre stage in new show The Mesmerist.

Based on a true story, follow Rufus Hound as he takes his family history and weaves in the discovery that his granddad had been a magician, with the stage name The Mesmerist!

What’s the show about?

In 2020, Rufus Hound learnt of the death of his estranged grandfather. Old boxes that Rufus inherited were filled with illusions, journals and props from his grandfather’s final magic show, previously performed in its entirety only once at Watford Palace Theatre – in 1983.

Intrigued, fascinated, out of work during lockdown and looking for a new project, Rufus learnt the show – which became the basis of The Mesmerist.

The Mesmerist is playing at Watford Palace Theatre from 2 to 21 March 2026. There’s no current news about a London or West End transfer for The Mesmerist, but check back for details, or sign-up below for alerts.

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Stars and Creatives

Who is in the cast of The Mesmerist?

Starring Rufus Hound

Who are the creative team of The Mesmerist?

  • Writers: Maheni Arthur, Georgia Crowther, Lancelot Ellis and Christopher York
  • Director: Steve Marmion
  • Set & Costume Designer: Jasmine Swan
  • Lighting Designer: Philip Gladwell
  • Sound Designer: Emma Laxton
  • Magic Consultant: Scott Penrose
  • Choreographer: Sundeep Saini
  • Audio Video Design: DMLK
  • Associate Director: Alex Clatworthy

Venue Information

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Directions

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Critics' reviews of The Mesmerist

★★★★★ "Remarkable and, yes, genuinely magical" - What's On Stage

★★★★ "Hugely entertaining" - The Times

★★★★ "Rufus Hound magically unravels a family mystery" - The Guardian

★★★★ "An emotionally immersive thriller, dressed up spectacularly as an illusionist’s tribute act" - The Stage

★★★★ "A rollercoaster ride of magic, trickery, illusion, and a surprising amount of heart" - Theatre Weekly

Frequently Asked Questions

The running time of The Mesmerist is Approx. 2 hours (including interval)
The age recommendations for The Mesmerist are: 12+
Yes, The Mesmerist has matinee performances on the following days:
Tickets for The Mesmerist are not currently on sale. Please check back for updates, or sign-up for our email alerts.

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