What do you do at Christmas to gather friends and family together when you are not religious and have had enough Nutcracker and Panto to fill a million stockings?
You congregate at Brian and Robins’ Christmas Compendium of reason of course. Who says that rational atheists can’t spread a bit of Christmas magic? Robin Ince and Brian Cox collaborate year round in the Rose d’Or winning “Infinite Monkey Cage” on Radio 4. They bring their special blend of science and comedy to the iconic Hammersmith Apollo for a charity Christmas show of truly epic proportions.
The buzz of the audience approaching the Compendium is not quite like that of any other Christmas show; not least because the line- up is kept strictly under wraps, adding to the anticipation. This is the good ol’ variety show reimagined for a modern audience. Instead of mother- in- law jokes you’ll have the smart and edgy comedy of Robin Ince and friends; instead of high kicking dancers you’ll have the equally decorative but far more cerebral Professor Brian Cox. And of course a big musical finale is a must.
Robin Ince expertly MC’s the evening such that the show runs miraculously to time despite the vast numbers of acts, only a few of whom are mentioned here. The popular myth that there is a cultural gulf between science and the arts is heartily, hilariously debunked as comedians rub shoulders with epidemiologists and string quartets play alongside those well versed in string theory.
It includes, quite literally, a stellar cast. “The Sky at Night” is represented not only by the charming Chris Lintott, but also the spirit of Patrick Moore, embodied this evening by impressionist Jon Culshaw.
The stars, galaxies and very fabric of space-time are stunningly represented. Professor Brian Cox effortlessly relates Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity to make it accessible, beautiful and very nearly understandable. Even if the mathematical detail is beyond many of us, the enthusiasm and yes, wonder, conveyed by Oldham’s favourite rock star Professor is more heart-warming and inspiring than any carolling reverend.
The festive fun continues with perennial geeky favourite Festival of the Spoken Nerd, fresh from a nationwide tour. The trio bring an electrifying experience with some very hands-on audience participation. The vast space of the Hammersmith Apollo becomes subject to Ohm’s Law and provides the opportunity to get close and personal with your neighbour in true Christmas party style.
Aoife McLysaght is bubbly, entertaining and genuinely enlightening on the role that ancient virus DNA plays in all our lives. Other highlights include Bridget Christie’s razor sharp feminist satire, Steve Pretty’s band and Ben Goldacre’s rapid fire demonstration of big data in healthcare.
More music is provided by Charlotte Church and Grace Petrie, both talented singers but with very different vocal styles. This calls for two very different pieces, and provides a warm and fuzzy Christmas singalong moment without overdoing the festive schmaltz.
To literally bring us back to earth with a bang is the Brompton- toting, safety spec wearing, always entertaining chemistry Professor Andrea Sella. He reminds us that greenhouse gas Carbon dioxide is the most dangerous substance on the planet via our favourite medium of explosions.
A personal highlight is the appearance of Canadian Astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield, who famously brought music to the world from the International Space Station. He gives a wonderful insight into what Tim Peake is experiencing as he begins his historic mission in space. With calm and eloquence he explains how it feels (and even how it smells) living and working in space. He gives weight to the argument that robots can never fully replace human experience in space exploration.
The finale of the evening belongs to New Order, at whose collective feet Brian Cox blames his infamous D grade at GCSE mathematics. The sight of the much admired Professor clearly thrilled at joining one of his favourite bands on keyboards provides a delightful moment.
Disappointingly Blue Monday is missing from the compact set-list, which seems a slightly Ba-Humbug decision. Understandably, in the limited time available New Order showcase new material rather than deliver this well-beloved vintage favourite, but Christmas is a time for indulgence after all.
If this the only jarring note in a joyful four -hour symphony, it is more than made up for by the knowledge of the money raised for charities including Médecins Sans Frontières UK and the Sophie Lancaster Foundation. The Ince and Cox collaboration reflects their ability to draw on the talents of best and brightest to curate a unique and unforgettable evening’s entertainment.
As always, next year’s line-up will remain a closely guarded secret. However, after the show Cox did share a suggestion for the musical act for next year’s extravaganza that would guarantee happy dancing in the aisles. How many favours from talented friends can this duo pull in for good causes? Best buy your tickets now and find out for yourself.
Brian and Robins Christmas Compendium of Reason – 16th December 2016 Tickets available from Eventim in time for Christmas.