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.
-
My Favourite Madman, Tristan Bates Theatre
Elchin AfandlyevDirected by Matthew Gould★★★★ Pros: Elchin Afandlyev is a world-renowned writer. He has the ability to condense a lot of thinking into a 90 minute play, and some of his musings are inspired. Cons: The script is very literary…
-
The Seagull, Theatro Technis
Anton Chekhov Directed by Gavin McAlinden ★★★ Pros: A terrific Chekhov script with some interesting performances. Cons: This show has plenty of moments which fall flat and are not quite believable. Our Verdict: An unusual production of a classic play…
-
A Month in the Country, Theatro Technis
Ivan TurgenevDirected by Gavin McAlinden★★★ Pros: An interesting and entertaining story performed by an energetic and well-balanced ensemble. Cons: The lengthy Russian classic suffered some dull ruts. Our Verdict: An enjoyable and refreshingly simple period piece that succeeds despite some…
-
Alice Diamond and The Forty Thieves, The Bell Pub
Madelaine BeeversDirected by Emma Williamson★★★★ Pros: A unique and fascinating venue with compelling performances from all the cast. Cons: At the end of two hours you may have a stiff neck if you sit on the front row, as it…
-
You and Me, Blue Elephant Theatre
Roger SimeonDirected by Bryony Shanahan★★★★ Pros: Demonstrates character acting at its best. Chameleon-like performances by Patricia Rodriguez and Mercè Ribot take you on an unpredictable and whacky ride through the love and hate of sisterhood. Cons: This is a very…
-
Before the Party, Almeida Theatre
Rodney AcklandDirected by Matthew Dunster★★★ Pros: Some very funny characters, and excellent performances. Cons: The comedy was much more brilliant than the deeper character moments. Our Verdict: Certainly worth the trip for a fun evening out. Credit: Keith Pattison Having…
-
The 8th Wave, The Space
James ErnestDirected by Don Mc Camphill and Luke Lutterer ★★★ Pros: A solid play in a great little venue. A particularly strong performance from Francis Adams. Cons: The start was a little slow and the ending a bit contrived. Our…
-
The Thrill of Love, St James Theatre
Amanda Whittington Directed by James Dacre ★★★★ Pros: A wonderful collection of exceptional actors have been brought together in this brilliant production. Cons: Not many. It is only 90 minutes long; personally I prefer that, but some may see it…
-
The Hospital at the Time of the Revolution, Finborough Theatre
Caryl ChurchillDirected by Jim Russell★★★★ Pros: Very clever writing which manages to narrate bad actions by characters yet also depicts the reasoning without judgement. Cons: A little too unremitting as an experience and some of the events feel unnecessary. Our Verdict:…
-
Molly Sweeney, The Print Room
Brian Friel Directed by Abigail Graham ★★★★★ Pros: An excellent venue, compelling script and note-perfect performances. Cons: Nothing worth mentioning. Our Verdict: This production breathes new life into Brian Friel’s poetic work. Astounding all round. Credit: Tristram Kenton The Print…