Andy Nyman explores the depths of horror in new play
Actor and illusionist Andy Nyman is engaging audiences with his latest project, a play titled The Psychic, which opens this week at York Theatre Royal. The narrative centers on a TV psychic attempting to redeem her reputation after being exposed as a fraud, a fitting exploration of themes surrounding belief and deception, reports BritPanorama.
Known for his collaboration with Derren Brown, Nyman has built a career around creating thought-provoking entertainment that often traverses the line between reality and performance. Ghost Stories, a notable work co-created with Jeremy Dyson, established Nyman as a key figure in the realm of supernatural theatre, notably addressing parental fears. His body of work combines innovative mentalism with a flair for the dramatic, aiming to provoke deep emotional and psychological responses from audiences.
While Nyman has expressed a strong affinity for magic and horror, he notably declined a lucrative multi-year deal with Channel 4 that ultimately went to Brown, who helped nurture Nyman’s talents. Reflecting on their partnership, Nyman said, “We sort of pioneered a new way of doing mind-reading stuff,” signifying the evolution of their genre. He describes their collaboration as a blend of classic and contemporary elements, which have been instrumental in evolving the theatrical experience.
Nyman’s passion for acting has led him through illustrious roles in productions like Fiddler on the Roof and The Producers, yet he remains unfazed by the lack of a major solo vehicle for his talents. “Life’s too short,” he remarked, prioritising happiness over fame or financial gain. He has hinted at the possibility of a future one-man show, suggesting an ever-evolving career trajectory.
In creating The Psychic, Nyman and Dyson aim to revitalize the genre of supernatural horror in theatre, a form that has recently experienced a resurgence. Nyman acknowledges the historical snobbery surrounding horror as a genre but believes its compelling nature has enduring appeal. He emphasized the desire to generate reactions through practical effects and unexpected plot twists, aiming for an engaging experience that marries humour with thrills.
As ticket prices for theatre productions continue to rise, Nyman articulates a concern for access to the arts, asserting that the perception of the arts as elitist must change. He advocates for the importance of arts accessibility, suggesting that it plays a role in community fulfilment and engagement amidst broader societal issues.
Despite his focus on light entertainment, Nyman delves into darker themes within his work, prompted by personal experiences, including the recent loss of his wife after a long illness. He believes that confronting mortality through art can be both healing and impactful, stating, “If you put it out there fearlessly, just put it out there, that is the only way you can truly touch people.”
With recent societal shifts leading to a perception of truth becoming increasingly unstable, Nyman is keen on exploring these themes in his work. He remarked on a world where accountability for negative actions seems diminished, using The Psychic to shine a light on such complexities. The play challenges audiences to question the nature of reality and the fabric of truth in a society increasingly sceptical of both.
The Psychic is at the York Theatre Royal until 23 May.
