West End/ SOLT venues
We’ve expanded our definition of West End to include those big venues that whilst not physically in the West End, budget wise are very similar. Think of places like Southbank Centre or Royal Albert Hall. Generally these are the venues that are members of the Society of London Theatre and eligible for all the big award ceremonies. Whilst we don’t attend lots of these shows, now and again it’s fun to savour the glitz and glamour they can offer.
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Damned by Despair, National Theatre
Tirso de Molina, in a new version by Frank McGuinnessDirected by Bijan Sheibani★★★ Pros: Spectacular design, interesting concept, and excellent performances, particularly in moments of humor. Cons: The content was a bit dense – made all the more complicated by…
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Ding Dong the Wicked, Royal Court
Caryl ChurchillDirected by Dominic Cooke★★★ Pros: A unique concept with an unnerving plot, delivered by a strong and familiar cast. Cons: The dialogue is disjointed which detracts from the credibility of the circumstances, and twenty minutes is not really long…
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Private Peaceful, Theatre Royal Haymarket
Michael MorpurgoAdapted and directed by Simon Reade★★★★ Pros: It is brilliantly acted and beautifully written. Cons: Whilst billed for eight years and upwards, I feel age ten is probably more appropriate. Our Verdict: A wonderful all round show, sadly finished…
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Love and Information, Royal Court
Caryl ChurchillDirected by James Macdonald★★★★ Pros: Churchill continues the push the boundaries of British dramatic enterprise. Cons: The nature of the piece means some of the scenes leave you wanting more. Our Verdict: A thought-provoking, exhilarating ride through all those…
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Choir Boy, Royal Court
Tarell Alvin McCraneyDirected by Dominic Cooke★★★★ Pros: Fantastic set design, excellent performances and truly stunning musical interludes. Cons: If there has to be one, I would say the characters are a little stereotyped, but only a little. Our Verdict: A…
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Philadelphia, Here I Come!, Donmar Warehouse
Brian FrielDirected by Lyndsey Turner★★★ Pros: A great script with an interesting concept in splitting the lead role between two actors. Well-acted by a credible cast. Cons: The stage direction could have been more dynamic and the set design significantly…
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The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, National Theatre
A must see, Theatre at its absolute best. Creative, fun, engaging and something slightly different. Tremendous.
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The Doctor’s Dilemma, National Theatre
George Bernard ShawDirected by Nadia Fall ★★★ Pros: An old play with very current issues; interesting to watch. Cons: The characters lack refinement and are a little disappointing, and it didn’t make me feel anything in particular. Our Verdict: It’s a…