William Shakespeare Directed by Grassroots Shakespeare London ★★★★ Pros: A pacey, modern production with plenty of humour and excellent comic moments. There is a lot of really enjoyable character interpretation, which adds a colour and relevance to the script. Cons: In delivering the prose in modern voice and comic character, at times the diction was unclear and parts of the story were lost. The blind casting worked better for some characters than for others. Our Verdict: A very enjoyable version ...

Michael Harry Directed by Christopher Jefferies ★★★ Pros: A fun window into the world of Elizabethan acting and its famous historical characters. Cons: In an attempt to include interesting historical facts and insight, the script was clunky in places, giving the tone of a school history lesson. Our Verdict: A brilliant homage to the revered Samuel Beckett and his respected Waiting for Godot, as well as to the period and playwright to which we owe much of England’s theatrical gravitas. ...

Written and directed by Michael Harry ★★★ Pros: A fun and light nod to Alfred Hitchcock and his legendary cinematic oeuvre with just enough tongue-in-cheek perspective on the mild absurdity of some of his plots, themes and characters. Cons: In the attempt to ‘cram’ as ‘many classic scenes’ as possible into ‘a piece that should however stand up on its own’ (Michael Harry), the plot was less cohesive than I would have liked. Our Verdict: An entertaining piece that cleverly ...

Johan August Strindberg Directed by Zoe Thomas-Webb ★★ Pros: A fantastic script furnished by a clean and appropriate design are the highlights in this production. Cons: The sexual tension and gripping drama of Strindberg’s script are muted, making the action seem unfounded and unconvincing. Our Verdict: Strindberg’s classic exploration of the politics of desire, gender, and class is always worth checking out, but this particular version fails to take full advantage of what the script has to offer. Courtesy of ...

Presented by Pins and NeedlesPart of Imagine Watford 2013Lyric Hammersmith, Greenwich + Docklands International Festival, Watford Palace Theatre and Latitude productions★★★★ Pros: Containing lots of humour for young and old this is an enjoyable half hour of street entertainment. Panto-esque fun, music and clever use of costumes and props bring the story to life and keep it upbeat and pacey.Cons: Just one– outdoor performance has taken its toll on the costumes and props which needed a good clean! Our Verdict: ...

Presented by Pin the TalePart of Imagine Watford 2013Lyric Hammersmith, Greenwich + Docklands International Festival, Watford Palace Theatre and Latitude Productions★★★Pros: This is a fun performance with lots of water and fantastic imagery using umbrellas and movement. The cast are engaging and enthusiastic. Cons: It appears to be aimed at very young children and there isn’t enough to keep the whole family interested as it drags a little in places. We were lucky it was a rare, warm afternoon as ...

William ShakespearePresented by Iris Theatre ★★★★ Pros: Great work by the actors and directors on making sure the Shakespearean language is understandable to all. Wonderful scenery including the use of lights and haze to set the mood of the play. Cons: Shakespeare does it again with the length of the play – too long! Especially as roughly 200 people have to move from stage to stage in between scenes. Our Verdict: A step up for Iris Theatre who are improving ...

Raul Quiros Molina  Directed by Sarah Provencal  ★★ Pros: An interesting production. It may not seem like an obvious ‘must-see’ show but I thought it was a worthwhile hour and a slightly left-field choice.  Cons: The acting was rather heavy with some odd choreography. You may find it helpful to track down a synopsis of the original classic play beforehand.  Our Verdict: A bold attempt, but ultimately this production is difficult to engage with and really enjoy.  Courtesy of the ...

A wonderful production showing just how funny Shakespeare can be in all kinds of weather.

Agnes Jaoui & Jean-Pierre Bacri Directed by Christine Renard★★★ Pros: Strong acting and expert timing elevated the play to a wonderful level of comic hilarity.  Cons: A couple of slip ups in the dialogue. Our Verdict: A witty play that explores the all too familiar genre of family dramas in the midst of accessible, enjoyable comedy. Every family has problems. The family residing at the middle of A family Affair, however, take standard Courtesy of Echange Theatre Company family bickerings ...