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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The Sisters: Return to the Isle of Queef!, Hen and Chickens Theatre – Review
Once this production gets going I defy anyone not to laugh – it's old fashioned panto-style humour at its best.
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The Jungle Book, Lion and Unicorn Theatre – Review
The children in the audience were utterly captivated throughout, the perfect family show.
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Much Ado About Nothing, Park Theatre – Review
William ShakespeareDirected by Andrew Shepherd ★★★ Pros: A mostly appropriate concept and some excellent performances in a brand-new venue make for a lovely evening. Cons: Whilst nothing was bad about this production, it wasn’t particularly notable, either. Some of the…
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Arabian Nights, Blue Elephant Theatre – Review
Directed by Jennifer Rose Lee★★★★ Pros: This show is sure to put a smile on your face. It’s physical comedy at its most physical and comedic. Cons: The set and costumes aren’t particularly inspiring. This show is contemporary in its…
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The Shape of Things, Arcola Theatre – Review
Neil LaButeDirected by Samuel Miller ★★★ Pros: Some very good acting with strong and clearly identified character development. Cons: Not the most exciting play, and the subject matter felt a bit dated. Our Verdict: A safe and solid production with…
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The Snow Gorilla, Rose Theatre Kingston – Review
The Snow Gorilla describes itself as ‘A Family Christmas Spectacular’ and that is exactly what it is. A combination of circus, theatre, dance, musical and pantomime all rolled into one, this show is a perfect night out for the festive…
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Changing Rooms, Drayton Theatre – Review
Farce is a really tricky genre and the director has yet to nail it down. I feel like the area between wacky and annoyingly over-the-top actually isn’t that big – this production may have got it wrong, but wasn’t miles…
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Corpus Christi, The Space – Review
Terrence McNally Directed by John Fricker ★★★ Pros: Intense and original crucifixion scene; with Judas reading a passage from the gospels while Texan rangers take Jesus to the cross. Cons: A little rough around the edges with the mix of…
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Our Glass House, Camden People’s Theatre – Review
This show will astound you. Whether it’s the immersive set, divine rhythmic ebbs and flow, the very truthful basis of the show or the raw shock of unfolding events.
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Hamlet, Lion & Unicorn Theatre – Review
William Shakespeare Directed by Kat Wootton ★★★★ Pros: A wonderful twist on a famous classic. This is a great idea that is very well executed. Cons: The venue feels more like an oven and some accents are a bit questionable.…