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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Molly Wobbly, Leicester Square Theatre – Review
This is fearlessly filthy British humour at its best, with a welcome measure of incredibly camp choreography.
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Romeo and Rosaline, Bread and Roses Theatre – Review
A great central concept, but as a whole this play, despite excellent acting, doesn’t get off the ground.
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The Jest, The Vaults – Review
Brilliantly conceived and executed, the Jest could just be the next big thing in sketch-based comedy.
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Dôkei (Longing), The Lion and the Unicorn Theatre
This a courageous and human story give a a voice to an important moment in Japanese history, and is beautifully and truthfully told.
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The Cocktail Hour and Smokers at the Scene of a Crime, Hen and Chickens Theatre – Review
Witty writing makes this a fun evening out.
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Fat Man, Waterloo Vaults – Review
An updated rendering of the Orpheus myth, with some good gags; but the storytelling is stretched beyond the comfort zone.
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Greywing House, Etcetera Theatre – Review
Though this is a good example of a one-person show, it is not without its flaws. These could be easily fixed to make a great piece of theatre.
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Richard Alston Dance Company 20th anniversary performance, Sadlers Well’s – Review
An impressive, eclectic and enjoyable mix of performances marking the company’s two decade anniversary.
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Walking the Tightrope: The Tension Between Art and Politics, Theatre Delicatessen – Review
Take twelve accomplished playwrights, an edgy topic, an inclusive venue and an able cast and you have a highly charged and engaging production. Highly recommended, even if the politics of the arts doesn’t excite you!