Notes from a Fellow Traveller by Derren Brown

Created by: Derren Brown

Notes from a Fellow Traveller is a book by Derren Brown that serves as a deep dive into performance theory, mentalism, and the art of creating impactful shows. It is not a collection of tricks but a practical guide focusing on spectator management, emotional vulnerability, and connecting with audiences on a human level. Brown shares anecdotes and insights from his career, emphasizing themes like embracing failure, collaboration with directors, and structuring performances for maximum resonance. This resource is ideal for magicians and mentalists looking to elevate their craft beyond technical skill, offering valuable lessons on storytelling, theme development, and the psychology of performance.

Where to buy

Monster Magic

Notes From A Fellow Traveller by Derren Brown (Hardback)

£75.00

🇬🇧

Shop

Key features

Focuses on performance philosophy and spectator management
Emphasizes emotional connection and vulnerability in shows
Provides practical advice on handling failures and unexpected moments
Includes insights from Brown's collaborations and creative process
Suitable for mentalists and magicians at any skill level

Pros

Offers deep, thought-provoking content on performance art
Helps build stronger audience relationships
Encourages personal growth and creativity in magic
Well-regarded by professional magicians for its practical value

Cons

Not a trick book, so no specific routines or methods are taught
May be too theoretical for those seeking hands-on magic techniques

Effect

Notes from a Fellow Traveller is a book by Derren Brown. It does not contain magic tricks. The book provides insights into performance, show creation, and connecting with audiences. Readers learn about structuring a show, managing spectators, and developing a performance philosophy. The book uses Brown's own show Showman as a practical example to illustrate its teachings.

Full details

The book is a collection of Derren Brown's thoughts and experiences from his career. It covers topics like spectator management, embracing failure, and the importance of human connection in performance. Brown discusses his creative process and collaborations with co-directors Andrew Cadieux and Andy Nyman. The content is presented as a journal, offering anecdotes and observations rather than step-by-step instructions for tricks. It focuses on the broader aspects of creating meaningful and impactful magical experiences.

Who should consider the trick

This book is for magicians and mentalists who want to improve their performance skills. It is suitable for those working on ticketed shows or anyone interested in the theory behind magic. Performers looking to understand audience psychology and create deeper connections will find it valuable. It is also recommended for those who appreciate Derren Brown's approach to mentalism and want to learn from his methods.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Since this is a book, there is no performance difficulty. The challenge lies in applying the concepts to one's own act. Readers must study the material and adapt the ideas to their style. The book requires thoughtful reading and practice to implement the advice effectively. It is not a quick fix but a resource for long-term development.

What magicians say

Nick Locapo from Penguin Magic recommends Notes from a Fellow Traveller for performers working on ongoing shows. He describes it as a journal of Brown's thoughts that offers valuable insights into performance and show structure.

John Morton includes it in his Desert Island list, valuing it for its practical guidance on performance techniques.

Chris Mallon selects it as his book choice, highlighting its importance for psychological insight and creative inspiration.

Harry De Cruz advocates for serious study of the book, mentioning that he annotates it to deepen his understanding of performance.

Nick Mohammed also chooses Notes from a Fellow Traveller for his desert island, appreciating its contributions to performance philosophy.

What people are saying about Notes from a Fellow Traveller

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Morton recommends 'Notes of a Fellow Traveller' for its focus on performance techniques and the importance of making each performance into a game.

niquetan says...

Tan draws a parallel to Darren Brown's 'Notes from a Fellow Traveler', which similarly uses Brown's show as a foundation for its teachings on theme and scripting.

penguinmagicshop says...

Brown emphasizes the value of embracing failure in a performance, highlighting that acknowledging mistakes can strengthen the connection with the audience.