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 Platform, The Bread and Roses Pub
Johnny Did Not Come Marching Home, by Sharon M. Andrews, Directed by Tom Skitt Just Desserts, by Will Howells, Directed by Nathaniel Francis Skeleton, by David Payne, Directed by Kuba Drewa Cold Calling, by Suzette Coon, Directed by Tessa Hart…
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Hutch, Riverside Studios
Joe Evans Directed by Linnie Reedman ★★★ Pros: An interesting story and the music, costumes and set really evoke the atmosphere of the time. The Halbwelt Kultur troupe of chorus girls are a definite highlight– they are fab! Cons: The…
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The Collector, St Peter’s Church (site-specific)
Adaptation by Mark Healy Directed by Theo Herghekegiu ★★★★ Pros: Well adapted, intense play set in a magnificent theatre space. Cons: The dark nature of this script will inevitably unnerve some audience members. Some of the acting felt a bit overly dramatic…
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Mess, Battersea Arts Centre
Caroline Horton and Company Directed by Alex Swift ★★★★ Pros: A lively combination of a serious topic with a wacky play and enthusiastic characters. Cons: I’m not entirely sure the idea of it not being the ‘real show’ was necessary…
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Genesis New Writing Night, Genesis Cinema
Presented by Genesis Cinema ★★★ Pros: A delightful and cosy atmosphere created in an architectural gem. Makes you feel like you’re amongst friends. Cons: Due to that strong community feel, there’s the potential to feel like an outsider. Our Verdict:…
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The Little Soldiers, The Cockpit
Conceived and directed by Guillaume Pigé ★★★★ Pros: Beautiful imagery, haunting original music, a showcase of first-rate physical performances. Cons: Might not be your cup of tea if you don’t like mimes! Without words, the story can be difficult to…
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4000 Miles, The Print Room
Amy HerzogDirected by James Dacre★★★★ Pros: Fantastic acting from Sara Kestelman and realistic lighting, sound and set by the production team. Cons: Annoying American accents and the use of American clichés (such as repetition of the word ‘like’) can be…
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The Storyteller – Curse of Bakawali, Etcetera Theatre
Written and performed by Ashley Alymann★★★★★ Pros: Combining the art of storytelling with contemporary performance, this piece captures the all-encompassing excitement one might remember from childhood.Cons: Slightly too long in running time, the ending seemed rather abrupt for such a…
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Cuddles, Ovalhouse Theatre
Joseph Wilde Directed by Rebecca Atkinson-Lord ★★★★ Pros: A most unusual script brought to life by two strong actors. Cons: Nothing much to report. Some elements of the show didn’t quite work but nothing too bad. Our Verdict: Funny, touching…
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The Anorak, Lion and Unicorn Theatre
Adam Kelly MortonDirected by Matthew Gould★★★★ Pros: Strong acting and a captivating storyline. Cons: The staging was perhaps a little too bleak. Our Verdict: An accomplished and intelligent piece of writing performed with flair and intense emotion. Courtesy of Giant…