Off West End
Much like fringe theatre, trying to define what Off-WestEnd venue really means is a debate that would take us long into the night. So for our own sanity, we define it as those venues that are slightly bigger than the fringe venues (so roughly 100+ seats), but not the big West End or similar venues that form part of the Society of London Theatre (SOLT). Like fringe venues, Off-WestEnd are eligible for consideration for awards via the Fringe Theatre Awards.
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Doubt, A Parable, Southwark Playhouse – Review
An outstanding play that will leave chills on the back of your spine.
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Agent of Influence, Drayton Arms Theatre – Review
A show that seems to have all the correct elements: acting, character, staging, premise. It just needs to be better balanced.
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ISHQ, Sadler’s Wells – Review
A wonderful folk tale that is told with thoughtfulness through dance. Unfortunately, the show doesn't pace the narrative well enough to earn the pathos that should be integral to the story.
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Talk Radio, Old Red Lion Theatre – Review
An energetic and well performed revival of Eric Bogosian's iconic hit which hits all the right contemporary notes.
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Eyes Closed, Ears Covered, Bunker Theatre – Review
Pros: The confident and able cast deliver this play with conviction, in an unusual venue that makes it stand out even more. Cons: A weaker second act loses the flow (and the plot), leading to a distressing climax. Eyes Closed,…
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Britney Spears: The Cabaret, The Other Palace – Review
A spectacular rollercoaster of a show that will have you laughing out loud and racing for hair shears in celebration!
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Five Kinds of Silence, Etcetera Theatre – Review
Pros: I found catharsis in the beginning of the play, which shows the death of the perpetrator. Cons: With only two people in the audience, the cast had to work harder to build the necessary tension. The stage is empty,…
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Deadline Day, Theatre N16 – Review
Pros: An intense and compact drama, the scope of which explores a lot more than just The Beautiful Game. Cons: Some choices aren’t clearly defined enough to fully realise the script’s potential. Liverpool legend Bill Shankly is often quoted as…
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Me & Robin Hood, Royal Court – Review
Uncomfortable, intellectually provocative theatre that, whether you enjoy it or not, has thoroughly generous and positive intentions.
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Outlaws to In-Laws, King’s Head Theatre – Review
Seven short plays effectively chart the course of recent gay history.