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: The League of Improv, Phoenix Arts Centre
With a top-tier guest comedian, an unusually funny audience and an ideal venue, the stars align for this talented improv team’s latest instalment.
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Review: Call Yourself An Irishman?, Jack Studio Theatre
A charming and stirring show about modern Irish identity
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Review: The Highgate Vampire, The Cockpit
As absurd and amusing as this story is, what’s equally as crazy is that it is based on true events... well, sort of.
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Review: Francisco de Nata, Soho Theatre
Francisco de Nata is a reminder of how powerful softness can be. It asks very little of its audience yet gives back so much.
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Review: Barbary Lion, The Drayton Arms
An interesting dystopian conversation dampened by its ambiguities.
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Review: Deadcrush, The Hope Theatre
A formative dark comedy with moments that shine out.
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Review: Collaborator, The Place
A tender reflection, Collaborator transforms twenty years of partnership into a quietly rebellious piece of circus theatre, rich with vulnerability and artistic confidence.
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Review: Mrs President, Charing Cross Theatre
A play which all too often feels like a stern lecture rather than a natural exploration of the characters: not even a superb performance by Keala Settle can save it.
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Review: Dance Til You’re Dead, Hen and Chickens Theatre
A witty, smartly performed cautionary tale about the price of success. While its direction doesn’t embrace the darkness at the heart of its story, standout performances and a rambunctious soundtrack shine through.
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Review: Safe Haven, Arcola Theatre
A play that depicts the historical events of Northern Iraq in 1991, but struggles to fully captivate its audience.