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 Chess Player, OSO Arts Centre – Review
An original adaptation of Stefan Zweig’s novella which, despite a brilliant central performance, doesn’t suit the theatrical medium.
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Stitchers, Jermyn Street Theatre – Review
Pros: The beautifully written script and the performances of Sinead Cusack and Michael Cardone, closely followed by the remainder of the cast. Cons: Very, very occasionally, there was a slight tendency towards Porridge like characterisation. Calling herself a ‘Victorian do-gooder’,…
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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Drayton Arms Theatre – Review
A pleasant but not particularly memorable trip down musical theatre lane.
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Fragment, Battersea Arts Centre – Review
A heartfelt portrait of young love, heartache, regrets and hope.
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Ratchet, The Bread and Roses – Review
Witty play with an absurdist influence which leaves the door open to multiple interpretations about work and labour relations.
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The Winter’s Tale, Bridewell Theatre – Review
Pros: A pleasant, well-appointed venue and the opportunity to see an infrequently performed Shakespeare play. Cons: The scenic backdrop relied on styling from the 1950s and 1960s, and didn’t sit particularly well with the tone of the play. This particular visit…
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Don’t Panic! It’s Challenge Anneka, The Bunker – Review
Pros: As a piece of theatre, this will entertain many. Cons: As a piece about anxiety, it seems at times almost to send up the subject matter. Cards on the table: I suffer from anxiety. It controls my whole life…
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Stroke Odysseys, The Place – Review
Cathartic show in which professional performers work with a group of people who have suffered a stroke.
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In the Shadow of the Mountain, Old Red Lion Theatre – Review
Despite praiseworthy efforts, rather than challenging the stigma associated with this personality disorder the play only bolsters it.
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Sex With Robots and Other Devices, King’s Head Theatre – Review
A daring, innovative new play offering a frightening glimpse into the potential of robots.