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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A Cure for Ageing, Tristan Bates Theatre – Review
A thoughtful and boundary pushing contemplation on ageing, however this piece focuses very heavily on the heavier side of the story.
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Honk!, The Intimate Theatre – Review
A great family musical, much like a summer pantomime. It’s music and lyrics are done justice by the Finchley and Friern Barnet Operatic Society however there is room for improvement for this gang.
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The Red Balloon, The Space – Review
Stringed puppets and fine music tell a wondrous story of a small boy’s friendship with a magical balloon. Adults and children alike will enjoy this piece for its simple beauty and playful innocence.
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We Are Proud to Present…, Bush Theatre – Review
A thought-provoking piece that, despite its flaws, is worth your time.
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Playground New Writing Night, The Horse and Stables – Review
An enjoyable evening of mostly well performed, and often very witty, new pieces of writing on the theme of madness.
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Naïve Dance Masterclass, Canada Water Culture Space – Review
Wildly ironic, slightly off the wall and completely unpredictable, this piece forces laughter and awe.
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Digital Theatre: The Soap Myth, The Jewish Museum London – Review
A compelling and moving play and an important piece of Holocaust theatre.
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Dark Vanilla Jungle, Soho Theatre – Review
A gripping tour de force performance from Gemma Whelan. Often moving and darkly funny, but the increasingly absurd plot twists wear thin.
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Thérèse Raquin, Finborough Theatre – Review
This radical adaptation of Zola’s dark and shocking masterpiece is brimming with derailed passion, haunting criminality and withering comedy. Fans of the novel and the play should see this version.
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The Merchant of Venice, St. Leonard’s Church – Review
A production that needs taking by the scruff of the neck; some good potential but chances were not all seized upon.