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Off West End

Ah, the Off West End. For those not familiar with the term, this is where the real magic of the London theatre scene happens. Great shows are born here, in pubs, in 50-seat theatres, in tunnels. Recommended for the adventurous – we can’t get enough of it, and you’ll save a quid or two as well!

Much Ado About Nothing, Park Theatre – Review

William ShakespeareDirected by Andrew Shepherd ★★★ Pros: A mostly appropriate concept and some excellent performances in a brand-new venue make for a lovely evening. Cons: Whilst nothing was bad about this production, it wasn’t particularly notable, either. Some of the comedy did not come across very well. Our Verdict: Whilst it was a Christmassy, well-crafted performance, there was no laugh-out-loud comedy. Overall, it was a safe production. Credit: Louisa Lewis Park 90 is an intimate thrust space in London’s newest ...

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Arabian Nights, Blue Elephant Theatre – Review

Directed by Jennifer Rose Lee★★★★ Pros: This show is sure to put a smile on your face. It’s physical comedy at its most physical and comedic. Cons: The set and costumes aren’t particularly inspiring. This show is contemporary in its interpretation of Arabian Nights, so the scenery and wardrobe didn’t need to be so traditional. Our Verdict: Well conceived, genuinely humourous, and executed with confidence and energy. Courtesy of Blue Elephant Theatre Arabian Nights was amusing from the moment it ...

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The Shape of Things, Arcola Theatre – Review

Neil LaButeDirected by Samuel Miller ★★★ Pros: Some very good acting with strong and clearly identified character development. Cons: Not the most exciting play, and the subject matter felt a bit dated. Our Verdict: A safe and solid production with a good narrative arc, but which failed to build up to an satisfying finish. At school, we used to have to go to church every week. One time, after singing a particularly inane hymn, I slumped back down onto the ...

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Corpus Christi, The Space – Review

Terrence McNally Directed by John Fricker ★★★ Pros: Intense and original crucifixion scene; with Judas reading a passage from the gospels while Texan rangers take Jesus to the cross. Cons: A little rough around the edges with the mix of modern and classic clashing at points. Our Verdict: A different Christmas experience. Brave and gutsy in its interpretation of the gospel, with warm performances from the cast. Credit: OutFox Productions The Space is an old Victorian church transformed into a ...

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Hamlet, Lion & Unicorn Theatre – Review

William Shakespeare Directed by Kat Wootton ★★★★ Pros: A wonderful twist on a famous classic. This is a great idea that is very well executed. Cons: The venue feels more like an oven and some accents are a bit questionable. Our Verdict: Enjoyable, accessible, fresh and lively Shakespeare. Courtesy of The Lion & Unicorn Theatre Kat Wootton took a big gamble on the subject matter for Hamlet at the Lion & Unicorn Theatre. We all know Hamlet, but for her ...

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