Part of the Camden Fringe 2013Written and performed by Jake Hassam and Nigel Munson ★★★ Pros: The concept gets you thinking, and the dialogue is clever and amusing. Cons: The second half struggles to maintain the strength of the first. Our Verdict: When it’s good, it’s very good. However, some of the scenes fail to captivate, and the ending, though effective on some levels, is a bit of an anticlimax. Do you believe in bureaucracy after death? Imagine getting to ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013 By Isaac Bashevis Singer Adapted & directed by David Zoob ★★★  Pros: The story and characters are complex. The level of detail the play develops in such a small interval of time is quite amazing. Cons: However well presented, a little more time would have given the play a better sense of drama. Our verdict: A production which draws you in with its atmosphere, despite the fact that it would have benefited with more ...

Damien Tracey Directed by Jason B. Moore ★★★★★ Pros: Solid drama, seriously good acting and completely absorbing writing. Cons: A play based on the repercussions of the London bombings on 7th July 2005 may seem an unlikely subject for an evening of entertainment but don’t let that stop you. Our Verdict: Gripping, thought provoking, political and topical. It continues to play in your head long after the curtain comes down. This was my first visit to the Tristan Bates Theatre ...

The Fitting Room, Mat Burt, Directed by Martin LeonardBlind Date, Ziella Bryars, Directed by Georgia MurphyPenpals, Chloe Ewart, Directed by Faye MerrallsCasting Call, Alex Head, Directed by Jennifer BakstThornaby, Keziah Warner, Directed by David Aula★★★★ Pros: Very funny, and an evening of great story telling. The dialogue is very good across the board. Cons: There are so many great plays to see that it ends up being a bit lengthy. Our Verdict: A very enjoyable experience with great acting and great writing on display. Courtesy of Southwark Playhouse Descent are ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013 Written and directed by Nick Card ★★ Pros: The scene with the lads reminiscing about Katie dancing in her fancy pants really stood out. Cons: A few glimmers of fun but overall a bit predictable. Our Verdict:  It didn’t really live up to the promising comedy title. The production needs a little more work to bring its concept to fruition. Courtesy of Etcetera Theatre The Etcetera theatre has been a hub of activity during the ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013Improvisation presented by The Murderettes★★ Pros: Unique concept for improv, great dead pan humour at times. Cons: Dragged quite a lot in places. One scenario was drawn out for too long. Our Verdict: Admirable attempt to explore and develop the improv comedy genre. Courtesy of The Murderettes The Murderettes are a murder mystery themed comedy improv group. The premise is simple but inventive. The small group of comedians start by asking the audience to give ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013 Polis LoizouPresented by The Off-Off-Off Broadway Company ★★★★ Pros: The acting is superb, the story is compelling, and the sense of the spirit world is executed effectively.  Cons: It was too short. At only 45 minutes, it was over too quickly.  Verdict: This small-scale performance demonstrates how little is needed to create a dynamic and entertaining piece of theatre. It succeeds in every way, particularly in its aim to provoke fear in an audience.  Courtesy ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013John FowlesAdapted for stage by Mark HealyPresented by Peppered Wit productions★★★★ Pros: Compelling, well-acted piece which really made me think. Cons: Some of the more serious action doesn’t necessarily lend itself to being acted naturalistically. Our Verdict: Chilling and thought-provoking. Well worth seeing. Courtesy of Peppered Wit Productions It’s been while since I have been to the theatre and come away genuinely not knowing what to think. The issues explored in this updated version of ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013Yazz Fetto ★★ Pros: There is good improvisation, as well as funny scripted moments. Cons: Where the play tries to address topical issues surrounding modern-day Christianity, it falls a bit flat. Our Verdict: The central story could be stronger, and some of the messages are questionable. But ultimately this play is written and performed for laughs. This comedy explores the business behind organised religion. Vestments and neckbands have been replaced with suits, and ties printed ...

Part of the Camden Fringe 2013 Written and directed by Matthew Radway★★★ Pros: Great British one-liners and an enjoyable first half. Cons: Falters in places, mostly towards the end. Our Verdict: A good work in progress that can and, no doubt, will get better. With a living room over-flowing with Princess Diana memorabilia, the stage is set and we immediately get a clear idea of who we think this Diana-obsessed couple are. Queen of Hearts is an interesting look at ...