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.
-
Dare to Do (The Bear Maxim), The Space – Review
An interesting view of the finance world from the perspective of one of their “fallen angels.”
-
Shadow Kingdoms, Theatre503 – Review
The play will transport you into a world you didn’t even realise existed, whilst spray painting London in colour.
-
The End of History, St Giles in The Fields Church – Review
Pros: Strong performances from Sarah Malin and Chris Polik. Cons: The hard benches…OK for an hour though. The End of History was developed following an invitation by the Rector of St Giles’ who wanted to illuminate the past and present…
-
Sancho: An Act of Remembrance, Wilton’s Music Hall – Review
This bold, nuanced and highly engaging one-man show from the multi-talented Paterson Joseph uncovers a black British trailblazer who should be remembered in mainstream history.
-
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.
-
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’,…
-
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Drayton Arms Theatre – Review
A pleasant but not particularly memorable trip down musical theatre lane.
-
Fragment, Battersea Arts Centre – Review
A heartfelt portrait of young love, heartache, regrets and hope.
-
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.
-
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…