Are We A Terrible Influence?

Review of Daniel Howell and Phil Lester’s “The Terrible Influence Tour”

Photo taken by Paulina Borowski

[This article contains slight spoilers of the show]

On Sunday, November 3rd, I had the exhilarating experience of attending Dan Howell and Phil Lester’s performance of The Terrible Influence Tour at The Chicago Theater. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, and I quickly discovered this event was not just a show—it was a radical, liberating, and deeply healing experience for the devoted fans of these two beloved YouTubers.

Having collaborated for nearly fifteen years, the two British icons, Dan and Phil, returned to the stage older, more authentic, and unapologetically themselves. They embraced topics they once shied away from, and their evolution mirrored that of their fans, who have grown alongside them through the years. This performance was a roaringly funny and refreshing live experience that stood in stark contrast to anything they had presented in the past.

Before the curtain even rose, a sense of community enveloped me. Warm-hearted fans exchanged handmade bracelets, forging connections and friendships at the moment. Laughter and friendship filled the air as attendees—some strangers just moments prior—sang along to an upbeat pre-show playlist, creating a joyous and welcoming atmosphere.

The stage set created a dynamic, tech-inspired atmosphere with a vibrant blue and purple color palette dominated by neon lights that snaked around the stage and outlined TVs of various sizes that flicker. At the center, a large screen displays the graphic of the Terrible Influence Tour. The surroundings created a futuristic, almost cyberpunk, aesthetic. The older static TVs added a retro-tech vibe. The combination of the elements of this set suggested the themes of technology, digital culture, and social influence. The set design cleverly balanced modern visuals with nostalgic tech to set an energetic and engaging tone for the show.

As the lights dimmed, anticipation surged through the crowd. The moment had arrived: Dan and Phil were about to step onto the stage. The show opened with an intense and captivating introduction, immediately drawing us into their world.

They laid out an engaging five-minute overview of their fifteen-year journey, reminiscing about their early videos and notable appearances. They candidly shared details about the hiatus they took before they publicly embraced their sexualities through heartfelt coming-out videos. This touching narrative served as a brilliant primer for anyone unfamiliar with their extensive backstory, allowing the audience to connect with their journey on a personal level.

As the performance continued, Dan and Phil ventured into more controversial territory, unveiling a series of controversial conspiracy theories. They interactively engaged the audience, allowing us to choose which theories to confirm as true or false. This clever approach fostered a lively atmosphere and effectively broke the ice, making us feel like active participants in the show rather than mere spectators.

Next, the duo launched into an entertaining game titled “Influence or Nonfluence.” They playfully debated the impact of their online personas, weighing the merits of their YouTube fame against the paths their lives might have taken without the internet's influence. This dialogue was both thought-provoking and humorously light-hearted, showcasing their unique dynamic.

As the show ramped up, the stakes rose dramatically with a theatrical boxing match that pitted Dan against Phil. The tension in the room was palpable as they donned makeshift boxing gear, playfully showcasing their competitive spirits in a fierce yet hilarious showdown to determine who would reign as the strongest of the duo.

After the intense battle, Dan and Phil invited the audience to a unique confession booth experience. The confessions varied in tone, ranging from humorous anecdotes to heartfelt admissions, creating a lively and intimate atmosphere. The duo's enthusiasm and playful banter made the audience feel even more connected. 

The show's grand finale burst forth with an electrifying musical number that filled the air with infectious energy, compelling every audience member to rise from their seats and move to the rhythm. A display of vibrant lights swept across the stage synchronized perfectly with the upbeat melodies and dynamic choreography. The culmination of these elements created a spectacular celebration that echoed throughout the venue, leaving spectators in a state of sheer amazement at the remarkable performance they had just experienced.

The evening unfolded as an unforgettable night woven with laughter, fond memories, and even touching moments that stirred the heart. Each shared anecdote not only deepened my admiration for Dan and Phil but also highlighted the incredible bond they have nurtured within their vibrant community over the years. The atmosphere was electric, filled with joy and a sense of belonging that made the experience truly special.

Since the very beginning of the show, Dan and Phil bore the question “Are they a terrible influence?”. To answer this question, I do not think so. 

Their fans have learned to confront and understand the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encouraging conversations that might otherwise be dismissed. Through Dan and Phil’s openness about their struggles, they've created a space where vulnerability is not a weakness but a source of strength. This fandom has learned to embrace self-expression, to show courage in simply existing as themselves, and to support and celebrate diverse sexualities across various online platforms. They’ve become advocates for inclusivity, acceptance, and kindness, helping to foster an environment that is empowering rather than detrimental.

Dan and Phil’s influence, instead of being “terrible,” has helped to shape a generation of young people who are more empathetic, more open-minded, and more accepting of both them and others. So, while their style may be unconventional and their humor may not appeal to everyone, the positive impact they’ve had on their audience cannot be denied. They have cultivated a fanbase that, on the surface, may seem like a group of young people who are obsessed with internet culture, spending most of their time online. However, this community has grown to be something much more meaningful both to themselves and to their audience.