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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Don’t Wake Me: The Ballad of Nihal Armstrong, The Cockpit
Rahila GuptaDirected by Guy Slater★★★★ Pros: The play gives the subject of caring for the disabled a personal dimension. Cons: The show may not sound like everyone’s cup of tea, but appearances are deceiving. Our Verdict: A one-woman show that…
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LineUp, Greenwich Theatre
Vertical Line Theatre Company ★★★★ Pros: A very enjoyable series of short plays to both amuse and entertain. Provides us with glimpses into our current world issues. Cons: A bit short on the production value, with a few kinks to…
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In The Loop, LOST Theatre
Jennifer Sarah Dean Directed by Jennifer Sarah Dean ★★★ Pros: The production’s sense of urgency, its ambiguity, its use of space, its assured acting, and its daring treatment of some important issues (memory, truth, testimony, consequence) make for an absorbing…
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Final Showcase, The Poor School
Presented by Graduates of The Poor School ★★★★ Pros: Witnessing so much talent and potential makes for a thrilling evening. Cons: Nothing springs to mind. Our Verdict: A wonderful evening showcasing the talent of the school’s graduating students in a varied collection of…
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The Rules, Old Red Lion Theatre
Lila WhelanDirected by Lila Whelan★★★★ Pros: Dark, witty and with a strong cast, The Rules is a cross between a psychological thriller and an Elizabethan tragedy, with a couple of gags thrown in. Cons: Some of the delivery could be…
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Venus/Mars, Old Red Lion Theatre
Patrice EtienneDirected by Rikki Henry★★★★ Pros: A good mix of humour and emotion, with a truly accessible storyline. Cons: Parts of it were a little slow, not helped by a boiling hot auditorium! Our Verdict: A raw and energetic production,…
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City Shorts, Rosemary Branch Theatre
Presented by London Grey and Green Theatre Company ★★★ Pros: Four 15-minute pieces offer a snapshot of some interesting female writers. Cons: With the exception of one piece, the idea that women living in London lead different lives to women…
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Cymbeline, The Space
William Shakespeare Directed by Nathalie Adlam ★★★ Pros: An atmospheric production. Fine performances that bring Shakespeare’s language to life. Cons: The complex plot is difficult to follow; the play’s disparate elements don’t cohere. Our Verdict: A valiant attempt at a…
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Chimerica, Almeida Theatre
Lucy Kirwood Directed by Lyndsey Turner ★★★★★ Pros: An excellent script addresses some fascinating issues, with top-notch performances and a stunning set. What more could you ask for?! Cons: At over 3 hours the play is long, but to be…