Everything Theatre Reviews, interviews and news for theatre lovers, London and beyond

William ShakespeareAdapted and Directed by Ricky Dukes★★★★  Pros: The fantastic staging evoking a Venetian carnival with elements from The Godfather filtering through. Cons: The transition from the trial scene to the ending left me aching for a more intense performance on Shylock’s part. Our Verdict: A superbly presented, highly enjoyable and accessible take on one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays. Courtesy of the Brockley Jack Studio Theatre A new adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice is running at the ...

Various writersDirected by Nick Myles★★★ Pros: Each of the four pieces was short enough to leave you wanting more. Radically different styles and themes kept the night interesting. Cons: A break between each piece and a late start made the event longer than it needed to be and quality varied in writing and acting. Our Verdict: A thoroughly enjoyable, casual evening with an active feedback process for the writers, though it was far from polished work and not for everyone. This ...

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. ...

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.

Horton delivers a poignant and original exploration of struggling with anorexia. An element of humor and whimsy makes the tough subject an easier, but still effective, pill to swallow.

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 ...

Jane AustenAdapted by Oneohone Theatre Company Directed by Asia Osborne ★★★★ Pros: A witty and bold production with just the right balance of carefully crafted narrative and flexible improvisation. Cons: Some of the text could have been more polished – the occasional Regency period language did not fit in well with the modern setting. Our Verdict: An immersive, fun, modern adaption of an old classic with matchmaker Emma and her friends brilliantly coming to life. Courtesy of ONEOHONE Theatre Company ...

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 ...