BRAINIAC LIVE
Garrick Theatre
★★★★
“a mad scientist lair with an unexpectedly polished West End finish”
As someone who grew up watching Brainiac on TV, I was curious to see how this explosive, cheeky science show would translate to the stage. But ‘Brainiac Live’ doesn’t disappoint – bursting with fun, physics and literal fire, it’s a great family show that keeps kids enthralled from start to finish.
Walking in, you’re met with a gleefully chaotic array of equipment – from radioactive barrels and hazard tape, to hot water bottles and deck chairs – a clear sign you’re in for a wild ride! Through a slick blend of experiments, videos and high energy performance, this snappy show keeps you on your toes and teaches you something too.
With original creative contributions by Ben Keaton and writing by Andy Joyce, the show is surprisingly funny and slick. The energy is kept high with rapid fire dialogue and ample audience interaction – the screaming, cheering and booing hardly needs encouragement. Though aimed at kids, the adults in the audience aren’t forgotten with jokes and references for them too. The comedy is largely physical, though the misheard lyrics section is delightfully silly and fun. The experiments are genuinely impressive and entertaining, even if they lean on big bangs which upsets a couple of kids – but explosive science is part of the Brainiac bargain!
Joyce’s direction keeps the energy high and the pacing snappy, each Brainiac high kicking onto the stage, and whipping the crowd into claps, cheers and competitions. The experiments are engaging – if sometimes loud – while punchy video segments mean you barely notice ’Brainiac Dave’ (i.e. Stage Management) expertly resetting the stage. Moments of unexpected silliness – such as the ‘Single Ladies’ bit complete with smoke and leotards – establish this as entertainment first and science demo second, though they blend seamlessly. A great example of making science fun!
Jack Andrews’ Brainiac Ned (a role shared with Joyce) keeps things zipping along expertly, with big, bouncy energy for the kids plus sharp comic timing for the adults. Andrews keeps the audience hooked throughout. Rik Warren gives Brainiac Ed a stoic but silly charm, opening with the strong, silent treatment before busting out some hilarious moves. Tracy Rahi’s Brainiac Raz completes the trio with real gusto. A cameo from Madison Grace sets the edgy tone early, and dramatic voiceovers from Odinn Orn Hilmarsson keep things moving.
Hilmarsson’s video editing, paired with GDL’s artwork, design and animations, give the video segments a really polished feel, boosting both the educational and entertainment value without ever feeling like filler. Additional design by Damien Stanton and Charlotte Paveley, including hazardous waste debris, playful lighting and slick sound design, builds a mad scientist lair with an unexpectedly polished West End finish.
Catch ‘Brainiac Live’ this summer – it’s big fun and bigger bangs, a perfect pick for kids who don’t mind a bit of noise.
BRAINIAC LIVE
Garrick Theatre
Reviewed on 28th July 2026
by Hannah Bothelton
Photography by Mark Douet
