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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Takeover, The Bunker – Review
A simple premise, almost flawlessly executed by a talented, young troupe. The writing makes for a provoking social commentary and the raw delivery gives it a refreshing edge.
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King Kong, The Vaults – Review
Pros: Light hearted King Kong romp which should keep older children amused for an hour and a half. A couple of ‘for the parents’ moments. Cons: Old jokes delivered in a shouty style which started to be annoying towards the end. On…
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Tiresia, Etcetera Theatre – Review
The complex theme is just too academic to be entertaining and fails to deliver a coherent message.
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Lonely Planet, Tabard Theatre – Review
In an US town in the 1980s, the owner of a map shop and his off-beat and flighty companion try to come to terms with the increasing loss of many of their friends to an unspecified disease in this important…
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Dirty Work (The Late Shift), Battersea Arts Centre – Review
If you like fatalist humour, this is the play for you.
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The Passion of the Playboy Riots, Hen and Chickens Theatre – Review
Pros: Its well-researched and original approach to the dark times of Irish history. Cons: Being unfamiliar with the topic, I found the play difficult to enjoy. If you’re familiar with Irish history and the troubles, The Passion of the Playboy Riots…
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Double Double Act, Unicorn Theatre – Review
Plenty of fun for very young theatre-goers.
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All I Want is One Night, Wilton’s Music Hall – Review
An enchanting piece of new writing with songs. The original subject matter makes this piece even more interesting, and the gorgeous set, costume and lighting will carry you away.
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Mr Gillie, Finborough Theatre – review
Pros: A forgotten play gains new resonance in this timely revival. Cons: It’s very wordy, and the first act takes quite a while to pick up momentum. On Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays, a visit to the Finborough Theatre will take…
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The Hare & the Tortoise & other stories, The Puppet Theatre Barge – Review
This show is an excellent way for anyone of any age to spend an afternoon.