Fringe/ OffWestEnd
We could argue for hours what makes a fringe theatre venue, and even then we doubt we’d come to a satisfactory definition. So to keep it simple, fringe here simply means the wonderful little venues, generally less than 100 seats, often located above or below or next to pubs, and very much at the heart of our theatre world, where all the magic usually starts.
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Review: Lambslaughter, King’s Head Theatre
Following the stories of two sixth-formers and their interactions with each other and their English teacher, Lambslaughter explores the influence of social media and the pressure of adolescence. What begins as harmless banter and complaints on Twitter (now X.com) rapidly…
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Review: Heart Wall, Bush Theatre
Grief, family and unfolding home truths.
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Review: What Fatima Did…, Tara Theatre
A groundbreaking, fresh piece highlighting the right to a religious identity, by Tara Theatre Young Company’s new and very talented performers.
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Review: The Other Mozart, Omnibus Theatre
Visually arresting, it’s a sweeping emotional account of how the equally talented sister of Mozart was almost written out of classical musical history – until now that is!
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Review: An Evening Without Kate Bush, Underbelly Boulevard
A playful, affectionate blend of tribute and comedy, delivering a joyful, well‑crafted celebration of Kate Bush.
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Review: Quiet Light, Baron’s Court
A ghost story with excellent bones, but also some rough edges.
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Review: TR[IA]L, White Bear Theatre
A timely sci-fi thriller with a clever twist and sharp design, though the show occasionally prioritises atmosphere for character development
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Review: Steel Magnolias, OSO Arts Centre
This textbook rendition of an eighties classic charms and engages even if it does not offer anything new.
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Review: Time Sliders, New Diorama Theatre
An action-packed race across time to understand what’s really precious, with challenging themes that are sensitively managed.
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Review: Boiler Room Six: A Titanic Story, Pleasance Theatre
A standout (dare I say titanic?) performance in a sharp script, supported by excellent sound and lighting.