Matt Hale makes a triumphant return to his hometown of Perth with his feel-good, sing-along brand of hypnotism.

The Planet Royale Theatre, situated upstairs from its namesake bar/restaurant/arcade, is an ideal venue for a relaxed Fringe season, and certainly one that complements the 90s nostalgia of Hale’s show (Tip: Treat yourself to a burger and a round of pinball before the show).

Before Hale’s entrance, we are treated to a pre-show presentation featuring deep-fake versions of Hale as various 90s stars such as Mattdonna and Jamiroquai.

A big reservation I have with interactive performances is the fear that I will be unwillingly called upon by the host. If you share a similar concern, fear not! Hale’s show relies on enthusiastic volunteers, as he prefaces that no one will ever be forced up on stage (“Why would I do that? I want you to want to be up here!”, he says).

Twenty chairs lined the stage, though more were brought on to accommodate the influx of volunteers. Modesty covers were also offered to some ladies wearing skirts and dresses, which was a subtle but appreciated detail that demonstrated the respect Hale has for the participants and their comfort.

Hale has a knack for putting the participants at ease – so much so that I, watching safely from the audience, found myself breathing deeply along with the volunteers. He also prefaces not to take offence if participants are asked to return to their seats, stating, “You will enjoy the show much better from the audience”.

The participants go through several trials of susceptibility and influence before being cast into starring roles of their own, varying from indulgent sing-alongs to apologetic interruptions. The few that remained on stage until the end became micro-celebrities, being stopped and congratulated for their performances upon the show’s end.

I spoke to two stars from the show, Sarah and Yelda, and asked how they felt following their experiences. Yelda said they felt like they’d sunken into their chair and were extremely relaxed. “I’m also very susceptible – I fall for marketing stuff all the time!”
Sarah wowed audiences with her enthusiastic Macarena, to which her friends commented, “That’s how she normally dances!”

I would highly recommend volunteering yourself for a show. The worst that can happen is that you are not easy to hypnotise, and are asked to sit down. Embarrassment is not the goal of Hale’s hypnotism.

It is clear that Matt Hale holds a tremendous amount of respect for his participants, as they put their trust in him and are voluntarily vulnerable. To also have an audience who were largely return customers was also a great indicator of Hale’s ability to charm a room and put on a show.

So if you Wannabe driven down memory lane by the Vengabus, let Matt Entertain You with this hypnotically feel-good return to Fringe.