The Stage Hypnotist Peter Powers gave his first show at the Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow in 1989. After the resident hypnotist Robert Halpern left in the early 1990s Powers took over and performed their regularly, usually for three weekends slots twice a year on Fridays (children's show), an early evening family show on Saturday and a late Saturday night slot strictly adults only. Originally his shows were very adult but got tamer over the years.

The Pavilion Theatre was privately owned but sold to the London Theatre chain Trafalgar Studios in 2023. First thing the new owners did was cancel Peter who gave his last shows there in 2023. Though not as popular in his earlier days the shows were usually well attended and did well during quiet periods of the year (February and August).

Is this a sign that Stage Hypnosis is not something that the big UK theatre chains wish to have in their repertoire even if tickets still sell for it?

This has always been the case for stage hypnosis. Most mainstream venues do not want stage hypnosis as part of its lineup or offerings. There are many reasons for this, but mostly due to image, perception, and financial.

It is also the same in the states, but I think the UK has another layer of concern due to the amount of adult, blue, and x-rated adult content often seen. There are many there that have given stage hypnosis a bad name not to mention contribute to that perception.

These venues are a business and must operate and make decisions in the best interest of the business, attendees, and sponsors. This does not favor stage hypnosis at all.