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.
-
Review: Spin Cycles, Camden People’s Theatre
A vibrant and heartfelt one-woman show that provides a fresh, contemporary take on grief, healing and identity in your 30s.
-
Review: Boxes, Soho Theatre
A vital story that tells of a life of uncertainty and hardship.
-
Review: A Fine Kettle of Fish, Old Red Lion Theatre
An energetic and entertaining take on the classic murder mystery, swapping out contemplative seasoned detectives for loud and lively students crashing through the case.
-
Review: Was Jane Austen Gay?, Actors Church
What better way to honour the recent 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death than by exploring her potential queerness in an infamous 17th‑century church?
-
Review: Maggots, Bush Theatre
Farah Najib’s unsettling drama is a portrait of housing failure, social paralysis and exemplary storytelling.
-
Review: Gutter VIII, The Pen Theatre
Some of the most vital alternative comedy London has to offer, Gutter amplifies the best and worst of human nature, weaponising parody and turning society’s grey areas – and outright evils – into tools of critique.
-
Review: Sorry For My English, The Tabernacle
A show with important, fascinating stories at its centre that shies away from substance in favour of surface-level remarks
-
Review: 3 Minutes Inside My Brain, Etcetera Theatre
Strip, tease, engage and extend your brain capacity for learning and laughter.
-
Review: This Can’t Be It?, The Pen Theatre
Pairing razor sharp comedic timing with open vulnerability, Laurence Dodd delivers a piece oozing with potential.
-
Review: Jack and His Giant Stalk, Brick Lane Music Hall
A very funny, superbly written and performed, out of season panto at a surprising venue that’s not where you’d expect it to be – and a three course meal too!