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: Shenoah Allen: Bloodlust Summertime, Soho Theatre
Vivid, candid Americana-tinged comedy, rich in character and atmosphere, but lacking the structural control to become truly great stand-up.
-
Review: The Story of Peer Gynt, Coronet Theatre
An accomplished and heartwarming performance, in which Kåre Conradi reflects on how Gynt became Norway’s most unlikely national hero.
-
Review: Little Sister, The Glitch
Some fantastic writing that addresses both our obsession with true crime docs, podcasts and mental health, but it’s currently let down by its presentation.
-
Review: EXPӦSED, Lion & Unicorn
‘Ze Emperor’s New Clothes’ is seen as a few really funny sketches and eccentric characters, skimpily stretched across the body of a 70-minute play.
-
Review: Orange Flower Water, Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse
Strong, committed performances lift this 90-minute play from fairly interesting to really good.
-
Review: Iolanthe, Wilton’s Music Hall
Charles Court Opera present an enticing, impeccably performed Iolanthe that delights newcomers and devotees alike.
-
Review: Viy, Golden Goose Theatre
A folk horror delight with immersive design and powerful physical performances
-
Review: Merry Wives of Windsor, The Hope Theatre
In Shakespeare’s riotous comedy of deception and desire, the innuendo is inescapable and the chaos comes thick and fast. This production of The Merry Wives of Windsor at The Hope Theatre takes that premise and pushes it to its extreme.…
-
Review: Space, St Martin-in-the-Fields
Space by Luxmuralis has rich material – moon landings, wormholes, psychedelia – but needs a stronger point of view to encourage cosmic introspection.
-
Review: Dr Faustus, The Courtyard Theatre
An engaging version of the classic tale that keeps the message intact throughout its modernised adaptation.