Darren Romeo

Kurt L Moore

After watching nearly all the magic shows Branson has to offer at the moment, I have come to the conclusion that they all shop at the same store for their equipment. Well, not all of their gear, of course, but a few pieces of paraphernalia are common fare in most of the magic shows. Each magician has two or more illusions that are trademarked, or earmarked, as their own and sets them apart from the rest of the pack.

Let me preface the review that I am about to give by saying that there is not a bad magic show in Branson. All the shows are good and each show has it’s own little twist, or should I say, own way it is presented, that makes it unique fare for the Branson show-goer.
Having said that, I want to tell you what sets Darren Romeo apart from the rest of the Branson “Magic Club.” He presents nearly every feat of wizard-like legerdemain with a song that sort-of relates to what he is doing.

It is hard to tell if Darren is a singer who does magic or a magician who just happens to sing. There are a lot of singers and a lot of magicians, but hardly any, that I know of, who combine the two talents into a single act. Darren is a darn good magician and an even better singer. His voice is phenomenal, (first person I have seen in Branson paying tribute to Stevie Wonder), and his energy onstage is even greater. Of course, when I was 28, I had a lot of energy too. I say that, knowing that Darren has much more than your average 28 year old’s energy level.

Throughout the show, he is always upbeat and “with it.” It is great to pick up on his vibrant energy and let it flow through one’s veins while watching his show. This man can almost literally jump-start a dead battery with his charisma.

I spoke briefly with Darren, as I attended a candle lit reception after the show. Darren is a very humble guy who is sincerely thankful he is where he is. He does not think the world owes him anything, but rather, just the opposite; he feels he owes everything to you, his audience, for allowing him the opportunity to be where he is. That much shows in his attitude throughout his show. He is always striving to give you, again, his audience, everything he has to offer. I sometimes have trouble concentrating on my computer while I am talking on the phone. Imagine how much concentration it has to take to be in front of a lot of people, remembering lyrics, singing and performing magic, all at the same time. It would be sort of like rubbing one’s stomach and patting one’s head while riding a bicycle. Now you’ve got the picture. That is perhaps the biggest trick he performs and that, dear reader, is not an illusion.

He is performing at the Welk Theater under the promotion and guidance of Joe Sullivan. Joe has a habit of bringing great acts to Branson and this one is certainly at the top of the “All Time Good Shows,” and the “Atta Boy Joe” lists.

Darren Romeo is looking to work out a long-term agreement with Sullivan Productions and from what I saw of this young man’s performance, I feel they should be talking about a ‘forever’ contract. I also feel that Branson will be very good for Darren Romeo and I further believe Darren Romeo will be extremely good for Branson.