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: Stuck in Transit, Old Red Lion Theatre
An interesting story demonstrating two very different halves of society, hampered by an uneven pace between them.
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Review: Dear Jack, Dear Louise, Arcola Theatre
A gentle, uplifting wartime love story told through letters, filled with humour, heart, and hope. A beautifully staged reminder that even in dark times, human connection still shines.
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Review: Sister Act, London Oratory Theatre
The best am dram production I’ve seen in a long time – filled with beautiful vocals, an energetic ensemble and a fabulous feeling of sisterhood!
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Review: Talking Heads, The White Bear Theatre
Compelling performances and inventive staging refresh Alan Bennett’s seminal monologues, carrying the audience to devastating depths.
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Review: Rowling In It, King’s Head Theatre
A strong and engaging performance, in which an actress is forced to reflect on her choice to play a role which could cause great offense to modern audiences.
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Review: Fickle Eulogy, Circle & Star Theatre
An earnest portrayal of loss delivered with real heart that unfortunately struggles against a disjointed narrative and a hit-and-miss rhythm
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Review: Spiderfly, The Space
A play never given the chance to build the required tension due to some weak directing decisions.
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Review: Please Don’t Fall In Love With Me (It’s Really Not Sexy When That Happens), The Hope Theatre
For all its boasting and bluster, this amiable enough sex comedy feels as dated as its 2007 setting.
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Review: Lifeline, Southwark Playhouse
This ambitious new musical celebrates Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin, and warns of the deadly danger of antimicrobial resistance.
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Review: Kidnap, Rosemary Branch Theatre
A dark, provocative show exploring unusual territories with a mostly sharp wit