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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HAG, Soho Theatre – Review
A brilliant, gory fairy tale that strikes just the right balance between being touching, terrifying, and comic.
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Ghosts, Almeida Theatre – Review
Henrik IbsenDirected by Richard Eyre★★★★★ Pros: A devastating and powerful play, stunning performances and a simple but wonderfully atmospheric set. Cons: Would be hard put to find any! Our Verdict: An assured and brilliant new adaptation. Courtesy of Almeida Theatre…
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Crazy Glue, The Nursery – Review
Dramaturge: Katherine MarkwickMovement Director: Bert Roman ★★★★ Pros: Original and clever premise, entertaining imagery, an evocative soundtrack and two highly-skilled performers working in perfect harmony. Cons: Might not be to your taste if you don’t like physical theatre or miming.…
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Virgin, Watford Palace Theatre – Review
E V CroweDirected by Joe Murphy★★★★ Pros: An excellent all-rounder which creates tension and climaxes beautifully.Cons: The ending felt a little contrived. Our Verdict: Virgin expertly elucidates work-a-day stress and the struggle for empowerment in modern day UK with guts,…
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Golden Child, New Diorama Theatre – Review
David Henry Hwang Directed by Ng Choon Ping ★★★★ Pros: Dramatically relevant and as thought provoking as it is spirit-lifting as a play. Marvellous costumes and scenes. Good character development. Cons: Some hesitant acting especially in the first half but…
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As You Like It, The Rose, Bankside – Review
William Shakespeare Directed by Jessica Ruano ★★★★ Pros: Great rendition of Shakespeare’s comedy classic. Enthusiastic performances and superb direction. Cons: I would have liked the cast to perform the entire play instead of this abridged version. Our verdict: Shakespeare fans…
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The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds, Brockley Jack Studio Theatre – Review
Paul ZindelDirected by Amy Gunn★★★★ Pros: This production fits any day, any mood and anyone and everyone. Cons: I honestly find it very hard to think of anything. Our verdict: One of the sweetest, most tender productions out there at…
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The Fu Manchu Complex, Ovalhouse – Review
Daniel York Loh Directed by Justin Audibert ★★★ Pros: This show actually produced laughter, rather than just a smile. Cons: Old jokes from the beginning of the show feel a little like they are re-hashed again and again throughout the…
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Sitting With Thistle, Lion & Unicorn Theatre – Review
Marietta Kirkbride Directed by Simon Kane & Elf Lyons ★★★ Pros: Well performed, a great stage set and entertainingly annoying characters. Cons: An hour and half felt like a long time without a breather but any break would have damaged…