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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Home, Ovalhouse – Review
Fresh and thoughtful multi-sensory production, designed for those with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their carers, that is just as magical as theatre should always be.
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The Pulverised, Arcola Theatre – Review
The toxic side effects of globalisation through the eyes of four employees of a multinational company.
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Voices from Chernobyl, Jack Studio Theatre – Review
An incredibly important story that deserves commending for being shared. Thought-provoking and heartfelt throughout.
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Brimstone and Treacle, Hope Theatre – Review
Although provocative and daring in the 1970s, Dennis Potter’s work hasn’t worn particularly well over the years, but the cast save an otherwise mediocre play.
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When Harry Met Barry, Above The Stag Theatre – Review
Delightful musical rom-com with an instantly loveable cast.
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Becoming Mohammed, Pleasance Theatre – Review
Pros: Good intentions, and some strong performances. Cons: Misses its opportunity to harness an interesting subject. The courage of And Many Others’ Becoming Mohammed at the Pleasance Theatre is apparent from its title. Discussion of integration among Muslim communities, the place of…
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The Ferryman, Royal Court Theatre – Review
Pros: First-rate writing and direction, a stellar cast, thoughtful staging and a heartbreaking story. Cons: It is quite long (three hours). It’s Armagh, 1981, and the Carney family, abundant with elders, children, and a goose, are preparing for the annual…
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All Our Children, Jermyn Street Theatre – Review
Pros: An engaging and meticulously researched script, combined with superb performances, make for a genuinely harrowing story. Cons: Needless sound effects and some unwieldy dialogue diminish the overall power of the piece. To my shame, this was my first visit…
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This Beautiful Future, The Yard Theatre – Review
Pros: An interesting view on love and war Cons: Some questionable karaoke that might not be to everyone’s taste It is 1944 in occupied France. Two teenagers exchange laughter and kisses and find love in spite of war. The story follows…
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The Toll, Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club – Review
A wonderful evening with profound thoughts, sharp humour and extremely intelligent work; a show not to miss!