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 Poetry We Make, The Vaults – Review
Pros: The topic is compelling and presented from an original and timely perspective. Cons: The character of Elliott is underwritten. How would we react if we discovered that our partner of four years was undergoing gender reassignment? Hopefully, many of us…
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Arnika, Bridewell Theatre – Review
This play is in need of a thorough edit, but the show is well acted, and the period and place are wonderfully evoked through costume and soundscape.
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Cyril’s Success, Finborough Theatre – Review
With its gentle comedy, pretty costumes and lively pace, this is an undemanding and pleasant way to spend an evening.
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Macbeth, The Rose Playhouse – Review
A compelling tale of power and ambition that is more relevant than ever, easily finding modern parallels in an age driven by social media - an absolute treat!
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One Duck Down, The Vaults Theatre – Review
Pros: Silly family fun with a creative set, musical numbers and lots of laughs. Cons: The ending runs out of steam and may lose the interest of younger audience members. FacePlant Theatre have put a serious issue at the centre…
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Drag me to love, Omnibus Theatre, Clapham – Review
Pros: A glittery, toe-tapping fun fest which gives you an insight behind the scenes of the world of drag. Cons: We were promised a few tears, but I didn’t shed any. Would have liked to see a little bit more…
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A Girl In School Uniform (Walks Into A Bar), New Diorama Theatre – Review
Pros: An innovative storytelling technique that boosts the audience’s imagination. Cons: There’s a lot unsaid and unexplained here – it would benefit from more context It’s the future – and it’s not looking too bright. There are blackouts, and people…
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Booby’s Bay, Finborough Theatre – Review
A quirky Cornish comedy-drama dealing with the housing crisis and the growing gap between the haves and have-nots. May contain sea shanties and traces of mackerel.
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Moments & Empty Beds, Hope Theatre – Review
A double bill of touching, emotionally charged drama by an outstanding writer.
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Medea Electronica, Ovalhouse – Review
Pros: If this were a gig I would have been impressed; the three piece band can really play. Cons: There is no real tension or emotional involvement to make you feel part of the show, and the whole style failed to…