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: I’m Allergic to People, Blue Elephant Theatre
A dark comedy that terrifyingly examines trauma, gender, sexuality, and violence in a manner so relevant and important to contemporary audiences
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Review: The Mosinee Project, New Diorama Theatre
An excellent premise, neatly performed, makes this an intriguing and highly topical production.
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Review: The Washing Line, Chickenshed
Possibly the most powerful piece of political theatre you will see this year.
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Review: The Even Stranger Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Old Red Lion Theatre
A well-crafted new take on a familiar story, entertainingly delivered by a practised double-act, at breakneck speed.
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Review: Bad Clowns and Good Friends, Fusebox
A fun evening of cabaret, with enough variety in its performers that there’s going to be something for everyone to enjoy. All served up in a surprising underground venue.
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Review: Women Beware Women, Golden Goose Theatre
A real delight: laugh, love, and cry at this excellent and timely adaptation of Thomas Middleton’s tragedy.
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Review: The Glass Menagerie, The Yard Theatre
The Yard’s final show is a beautifully directed, dazzling take on Tennessee Williams' famous memory play.
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Review: Birds of Passage, The Drayton Arms Theatre
An effective statement about refugees and society’s views towards migrants, which benefits from the precise beauty of the lighting and sound design.
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Review: Tell me you’ll think about it, Hen and Chickens Theatre
A strong emotional deep dive into a couple’s relationship, delivered with intensity.
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Review: The Last Supper, The Space
The final product doesn’t always match the ambition, but nonetheless, there’s lots of fun to be had in this show about trying to make amends for poor decisions.