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 Merchant of Venice, Brockley Jack Studio Theatre – Review
William ShakespeareAdapted and Directed by Ricky Dukes★★★★ Pros: The fantastic staging evoking a Venetian carnival with elements from The Godfather filtering through. Cons: The transition from the trial scene to the ending left me aching for a more intense performance…
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Genesis New Writing Night, Genesis Cinema – Reviews
Various writersDirected by Nick Myles★★★ Pros: Each of the four pieces was short enough to leave you wanting more. Radically different styles and themes kept the night interesting. Cons: A break between each piece and a late start made the…
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Don Juan, The Destiny of a Libertine, The Cockpit – Review
Molière Adapted by Compagnie de la Flibuste Directed by Clement de Dadelsen ★★★ Pros: An enjoyable production of Molière with some excellent costumes. Cons: The pace of the show sometimes feels a little slow. Our Verdict: A great way to…
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Woyzeck, Omnibus Clapham – Review
Fantastic set but the text is such a strange play in itself that this production felt similarly strange. A weird collection of philosophies, passions and actions that make for an indefinable whole.
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The Lady’s not for walking like an Egyptian, Ovalhouse – Review
Despite lacking a short catchy title, this piece was a strong anarchic performance which made the audience nostalgic for the 80s yet fearful of its politics returning.
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Knickers To That!, Etcetera Theatre – Review
Simone WatsonDirected by Simone Watson★★★★ Pros: An accessible play with engaging characters and recognisable scenarios. Cons: While there are a number of amusing scenes, those looking for escapism probably won’t find it here. Our Verdict: Lightning in a bottle: life…
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Psychopomp and Circumstance, The Hen and Chickens Theatre – Review
Written & directed by Michael Eckett★★ Pros: Energetic and dedicated performances and some genuinely funny moments. Cons: Some of the plays were stronger than others; at certain points I was baffled and my attention drifted. Our Verdict: A great subject…
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Tiger at the Gates, Lion and Unicorn Theatre – Review
Jean Giraudoux Directed by Nick Mouton ★★★ Pros: A story that resonates strongly with the current world-wide political climate, highlighting the absurdities and fickleness of war with intellect and wit. Cons: A heady play with a great deal of talk…