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: Cataclysmic, The Hope Theatre
A highly experimental, emotional one-person show that explores grief and memory through classic and immersive performance.
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Review: The Effect, Old Red Lion Pub and Playhouse
Driven by electric chemistry between its leads, this is a tender and intelligent exploration of what it means to feel.
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Review: Chess, Royal Academy of Music
A dazzling array of talent illuminates this popular musical by taking it back to square one.
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Review: Wife to James Whelan, Jermyn Street Theatre
Small town hopes and frustrations brought to life, but beware ongoing pride and stubbornness.
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Review: The 2nd Annual Great Canadian Theatre Festival!, Old Red Lion
If these two script-in-hand productions are a taster of what Canadian theatre is all about, then we should be welcoming our overseas friends along more often.
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Review: Perhaps, Etcetera Theatre
An exceptional narrative, a solid script, and a staging and performance that still needs work.
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Review: Buonarroti, The Hope Theatre
With an engaging premise, good direction and a beautiful set, there’s a lot to like about Buonarroti, in spite of issues with chemistry.
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Review: Arthur, Polka Theatre
A witty, warm-hearted reimagining of the Arthurian legend that combines silliness with genuine emotional depth. Packed with inventive storytelling, great performances and theatrical imagination.
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Review: Rapunzel, Half Moon Theatre
Visually inventive and musically engaging, Rapunzel has plenty of charm and potential, but currently loses its way, with an overcrowded script and muddled narrative stopping its feminist heart shining through.
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Feature: Tick,Tick… the Legacy of Jonathan Larson
An intimate first glimpse at The Jonathan Larson Project reveals a cast and creative team alive with affection, responsibility and excitement