Sarah Ruhl Directed by Laurence Boswell ★★★★ Pros: Complex and worthy themes, played by an excellent cast on a first class stage set give this production a polished feel. The second act provides lots of laughs, balanced with some poignant moments. Cons: The first act is drawn out at times and the humour doesn’t really connect with the audience until after the interval. The diction is formal and a bit stilted, leaving the characters feeling a little wooden. Our Verdict: ...

Molière Adapted by Compagnie de la Flibuste Directed by Clement de Dadelsen ★★★ Pros: An enjoyable production of Molière with some excellent costumes. Cons: The pace of the show sometimes feels a little slow. Our Verdict: A great way to get your fill of classic French theatre in English. Courtesy of Don Juan Cockpit The old saying, “You wait ages for a bus, then two come at once” sometimes applies in the most unusual circumstances. In my case, with Molière. ...

Fantastic set but the text is such a strange play in itself that this production felt similarly strange. A weird collection of philosophies, passions and actions that make for an indefinable whole.

Despite lacking a short catchy title, this piece was a strong anarchic performance which made the audience nostalgic for the 80s yet fearful of its politics returning.

Simone WatsonDirected by Simone Watson★★★★ Pros: An accessible play with engaging characters and recognisable scenarios. Cons: While there are a number of amusing scenes, those looking for escapism probably won’t find it here. Our Verdict: Lightning in a bottle: life in inner London captured in all its complexity. Courtesy of etceteratheatre.com With the title Knickers To That!, you would be forgiven for thinking that this play might be a farce or not have dramatic gravitas. This is far from the ...

Written & directed by Michael Eckett★★ Pros: Energetic and dedicated performances and some genuinely funny moments. Cons: Some of the plays were stronger than others; at certain points I was baffled and my attention drifted. Our Verdict: A great subject that could be better exploited for both drama and/or comedy. Some more background information would have been helpful to get the best from the production. Courtesy of Sigil Club Productions The Hen and Chickens is a theatre space above a ...

Greg Freeman Directed by Ken McClymont ★★★ Pros: The philosophical arguments dressed in dark comedy surrounding ownership, friendship and the value we place upon a person. Cons: A little heavy on themes and intrigue around the main character – makes the audience lose the thread of the story somewhat. Our Verdict: A dark western comedy fit for anyone who enjoys good dialogues, a main protagonist with an uncanny resemblance to Clint Eastwood and intense moral topics. Courtesy of the Tabard ...

Jean Giraudoux Directed by Nick Mouton  ★★★ Pros: A story that resonates strongly with the current world-wide political climate, highlighting the absurdities and fickleness of war with intellect and wit.  Cons: A heady play with a great deal of talk and a point to prove which, although interesting, might benefit from more action to reinforce and focus the debate.  Our Verdict: An ancient story investigating the reasons behind the wilful propagation of war that, while relevant and poignant, becomes didactic ...

William Shakespeare A Transport Production Directed by Douglas Rintoul ★★ Pros: This is a different take on a classic Shakespeare comedy. Certainly good for those who know the story well and like to see a new perspective on the play and the world we live in Cons: Sometimes difficult to follow, this is not recommended for your first venture into the land of the Forest of Arden. Our Verdict: This production is not going to be for everyone but is ...

The devised nature means it’s a totally different performance each night – but as a result it manifested itself merely as an interesting acting exercise rather than anything particularly entertaining.