- Review: Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch “Sweet Mambo”, Sadlers Wells *****Review: Pina Bausch’s Sweet Mambo premieres at Sadler’s Wells, blending dance, theatre, and emotional depth in captivating vignettes. This masterpiece invites audiences to engage with profound human experiences, showcasing Bausch’s enduring influence.
- Review: Spin Cycles , Camden People’s Theatre****Review: Spin Cycles at Camden People’s Theatre is a poignant one-woman show by Jamie-Lee Money, exploring themes of family trauma and adult vulnerability through humor and satire. Set in a spin studio, it intertwines personal grief with relatable anxieties, prompting audiences to reflect on their own life experiences. The performance is lively, engaging, and deeply human.
- Review: Maggots, Bush Theatre **** Review: “Maggots,” a powerful play by Farah Najib at Bush Theatre, explores the unseen human costs of societal neglect. Through three actors, it intricately weaves personal stories with real-life tragedies like Sheila Seleoane’s, highlighting the fragility of community. The work challenges audiences to confront who remains unheard in contemporary society.
- Review: BIGRE / “Fish Bowl”, Sadlers Wells ****“FishBowl,” a Molière Award-winning comedy, showcases a masterful blend of physical humor and social commentary. Co-written by Pierre Guillois and others, the production emphasizes exaggerated mime while incorporating sound selectively. The clever set design enhances comedic risk, making everyday interactions humorously relatable, despite occasional overindulgence in toilet humor. Audiences will relish its sharp observations.
- Review: Friends! the Parody Musical, New Wimbledon Theatre, ***Review: FRIENDS! The Musical Parody attempts to blend parody with tribute but struggles to find a clear direction. While performances are solid and visual design is effective, missed satirical opportunities detract from its impact. Ultimately, it serves as a nostalgic experience for devoted fans but lacks broader appeal or comedic depth.
- Review: Ebony Scrooge, Sadlers Wells East ****Review of Ebony Scrooge: Sadler’s Wells East launches with a captivating remix of A Christmas Carol, blending Caribbean flair and hip-hop vitality. Directed by Dannielle Lecointe, the production reinvents the classic with striking choreography and a vibrant score. A must-see festive delight!
- Review: Sunny Afternoon, (on tour), New Wimbledon Theatre, ***Review: Sunny Afternoon at New Wimbledon Theatre captivates Kinks fans with its heartfelt storytelling and musical craftsmanship. While not revolutionary in the jukebox musical genre, it effectively explores the band’s complex family dynamics and career challenges. Strong performances and a nostalgic atmosphere ensure an enjoyable experience, celebrating the enduring charm of the Kinks.
- Review: After Sunday, Bush Theatre **** Review: After Sunday, a poignant debut play by Sophia Griffin at the Bush Theatre, explores the lives of three Black men in a psychological care system, highlighting their struggles and the impact of systemic issues. Through Caribbean cooking, the characters seek healing amidst profound challenges, offering moments of hope and connection.
- Review: The Ecstasy of Hedy Lamarr, New Wimbledon Theatre, ****The Ecstasy of Hedy Lamarr, currently at the New Wimbledon Theatre, explores the life of the actress and inventor whose groundbreaking work in technology remains under-recognised. With compelling performances and innovative elements, it brings Lamarr’s inspiring story to contemporary audiences.
- Review: Not your Superwoman, Bush Theatre **** 1/2Review: Not Your Superwoman at the Bush Theatre captivates audiences with its poignant portrayal of a Guyanese immigrant family’s generational struggles. Strong performances by Letitia Wright and Golda Rosheuvel, coupled with skilful direction, create a relatable, engaging experience that deserves a West End transfer.
- Review: Tentacle Tribe: PRISM, Sadlers Wells East ****1/2Review: Tentacle Tribe’s Prism at Sadler’s Wells East is a stunning dance performance where five dancers create a vibrant, hypnotic tapestry of movement using colour and light. Choreographers Emmanuelle Lê Phan and Elon Höglund’s seamless collaboration captivates audiences with organic formations and immersive reflections.
- Review: The Gardening Club, New Wimbledon Theatre ****Review: The Gardening Club, currently at New Wimbledon Theatre, captivates audiences with a powerful narrative about women covertly distributing the birth control pill in 1960s Georgia. This poignant musical skilfully intertwines humour, rebellion, and pressing societal issues, leaving a lasting impact.
- Review: Black Power Desk , Brixton House ****Review: Black Power Desk, premiering at Brixton House, is a poignant musical that intertwines personal stories with the political turbulence of 1970s Black British protest. Through its compelling narrative and vibrant music, it sheds light on a critical yet often overlooked chapter in history.
- Review: How to be a Dancer in Seventy-two Thousand Easy Lessons, Sadlers Wells East ****1/2Review: How to Be a Dancer in 72,000 Easy Lessons at Sadler’s Wells East artfully chronicles Michael Keegan-Dolan’s journey through vivid memories and dance. It celebrates personal milestones and generational trauma, evoking deep reflection as audiences explore the essence of identity and artistry.
- Review: Make Me Feel, Bush Theatre (Young Company) *** The Bush Theatre in Shepherd’s Bush places reflecting the diversity of its community at the very heart of its work and does so with remarkable success. Each visit offers something new to learn and reflect upon, making every production a meaningful experience. Since the… Read more: Review: Make Me Feel, Bush Theatre (Young Company) ***
- Review: R.O.S.E., Sadlers Wells East ****Sadler’s Wells East transforms into a night club in this collaboration between boundary-blurring choreographer Sharon Eyal, creative partner Gai Behar, London dancers Young and club DJ Call Super. It offers a compelling fusion of nightlife and contemporary performance. Eyal and Behar met in a… Read more: Review: R.O.S.E., Sadlers Wells East ****
- Review: Inside Giovanni’s Room, Sadlers Wells East ****Founded over 40 years ago by three young Black British men, Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre presents Inside Giovanni’s Room at Sadler’s Wells East as part of a UK tour. The show is a sensual, mesmerisingly rhythmic and emotional retelling of the James Baldwin novel, Giovanni’s Room. American writer and civil… Read more: Review: Inside Giovanni’s Room, Sadlers Wells East ****
- Review: Just for one day, Shaftesbury ****Review: “Just For One Day,” now at the Shaftesbury Theatre, celebrates the 1985 Live Aid concert’s 40th anniversary. The show blends lively music with critical insights into Bob Geldof’s efforts, addressing the complexities of aid responses. It highlights the concert’s impact and evolution, while its reworked songs and strong cast contribute to an engaging tribute.
- Review: Miss Myrtle’s Garden, Bush Theatre ****1/2 Review: “Miss Myrtle’s Garden,” currently at the Bush Theatre, features Diveen Henry as Myrtle, portraying the struggle of memory loss within a Jamaican family in Peckham. Directed by Taio Lawson, the play blends humour and heartache, highlighting the universal experiences of dementia while offering a poignant and affectionate exploration of family dynamics.
- Review: Tending, Riverside Studios ****Review: “Tending” is a poignant theatre production based on over 70 interviews with NHS nurses, showcasing their sacrifices, struggles, and joys, particularly during the Covid-19 crisis. Written by El Blackwood and directed by John Livesey, it humanises nurses through composite characters, aiming to reshape public perceptions of their experiences.
- Review: Kyoto, RSC / Soho Place ****Review: Set in the 1980s and 1990s, “Kyoto” explores the United Nations climate change summits, spotlighting Republican oil lobbyist Don Pearlman’s efforts to sabotage agreements. While capturing the urgency of the situation, the play balances human stories with political insights. However, some comedic moments feel out of place amidst serious themes.
- Review: A Brief Case Of Crazy, Riverside Studios ****Review: A Brief Case of Crazy, performed by Skedaddle Theatre at Riverside Studios, is a charming movement-theatre show featuring an introverted office worker, Thomas, vying for Daisy’s affections against the villainous Simon. The production combines physical comedy and puppetry, creating both humorous and poignant moments, showcasing the actors’ impressive talent.
- Review: NOW that’s What I Call A Musical, New Wimbledon Theatre ***Review: NOW That’s What I Call A Musical is a nostalgic juke box musical celebrating the NOW compilation tapes’ fortieth anniversary. Set in Birmingham across 1989 and 2009, it intertwines youthful dreams with the realities of adult life. While the plot is thin, the lively musical numbers and family dynamics shine, ensuring audience enjoyment.
- Review: Retrograde, Apollo Theatre **** Review: “Retrograde” by Ryan Calais Cameron is a gripping play exploring the dilemmas faced by black actor Sidney Poitier during McCarthyism. Set in one tense day, it examines themes of identity, sacrifice, and ethical choices, as Poitier grapples with the pressure to denounce hero Paul Robeson to secure his career.
- Review: Dear England, National Theatre **** ½ Review: “Dear England” at the National Theatre explores the duality of England’s obsession with football, highlighting the joy and burden of expectations, alongside themes of racism. It portrays Gareth Southgate’s leadership and his progressive communication with fans, emphasising social issues like equality. The play is significant for understanding contemporary English culture.
- Review: The Years, Harold Pinter **** ½ Review: “The Years,” based on Annie Ernaux’s memoir, explores a woman’s life from 1941 to 2006, intertwining personal milestones with significant global events. The play, notable for its visceral abortion scene, reflects profound societal changes impacting women’s choices. Through the stories of five actresses, it prompts audiences to consider how context shapes personal decisions.
- Review: Sisyphean Quick Fix, Riverside Studios ****1/2Review: Sisyphean Quick Fix, awarded BEST PLAY at the 2024 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, portrays sisters Krista and Pip navigating family challenges across distances. Written and starred in by Bettina Paris, the play delicately balances humour and love amidst painful realities. It highlights sacrifices, lost opportunities, and the emotional toll on relationships while promoting awareness with Alcohol Change UK.
- My Fair Lady, The Questors Theatre ****Wouldn’t It Be Loverly if people outside Ealing realised just what a jewel the Questor’s Theatre is? While an amateur theatre, shows such as its recent My Fair Lady demonstrate that it is capable of producing shows which rival the West End for both… Read more: My Fair Lady, The Questors Theatre ****
- Review: Dear Evan Hansen, New Wimbledon Theatre ****Review: Dear Evan Hansen, currently touring at the New Wimbledon Theatre, explores the isolation of Gen Z in a connected yet disconnected world. With impactful performances, especially by Ryan Kopel, and strong songwriting, the production reflects both teen experiences and parental challenges. This poignant musical is a must-see for all generations.
- Review: Yankl And The Beanstalk, Pleasance **½Review: “Yankl and the Beanstalk” at Pleasance London reinvents panto with a queer, Jewish, socialist flair. Inspired by Haimisher traditions, it combines familiar narratives with Yiddish elements, engagingly performed amidst delightful audience interaction. Nay Oliver Murphy shines as Yankl, while topical themes resonate. This refreshing take diverges from conventional pantomime styles, offering unique charm.
- Review: Lavender, Hyacinth, Violet, Yew, Bush Theatre **** Review: Coral Wylie, a founding member of the Bush Theatre’s Young Company, both writes and performs in “Lavender, Hyacinth, Violet, Yew,” a World Premiere exploring the complexities of family life and queer identity. Through the story of Pip and the late Duncan amidst the AIDS epidemic, it captures generational connections and the challenges of acceptance.
- Review: Kenrex, Southwark Playhouse ****½Review: Kenrex at the Southwark Playhouse is part concert, part true crime podcast and part play. It is largely a one-man-show (Jack Holden), enhanced by on stage music (Jack Patrick Elliott) and sound recordings (Giles Thomas). Written by Holden and director Ed Stambollouian and subtitled “A True Crime Thriller”, it is a riveting, adventurous, genre-bending tour de force.
- Review: Mrs President, Charing Cross Theatre **Review: “Mrs President” at Charing Cross Theatre offers an intimate yet perplexing portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln, depicted through confusing narrative choices. Despite strong performances and set design, the show struggles to present a coherent view of Lincoln’s character, leaving her reputation largely unexplored and muddled by distracting elements.
- Review: Oedipus, Old Vic *** ½ Review: Oedipus at the Old Vic presents a modern retelling of the classic tale, incorporating contemporary dance that captivates but occasionally misaligns with the narrative. While some performances shine, others lack emotional depth, leading to an overall disjointed experience.
- Review: Stalled, Kings Head Theatre *** Review: Stalled,” a new musical at the King’s Head Theatre, explores the complex relationships between mothers and daughters set in a Seattle ladies’ room. Although the cast, led by Lauren Ward, is strong, the plot feels overcrowded, with timeline inconsistencies and overuse of strong language detracting from its impact. Improvements could enhance its future.
- Review: …blackbird hour, Bush Theatre (and on tour) ***½ Review: …blackbird hour directed by malakaï sargeant, is a poignant play that explores mental illness through the character Eshe, portrayed by Evlyne Oyedokun. With powerful performances and innovative staging, it highlights the impact of mental health struggles on individuals and their supporters. The production offers a challenging yet vital viewing experience.
- Review: Pig Heart Boy, Unicorn Theatre (and tour) ****Review: Pig Heart Boy, currently at Unicorn Theatre before its national tour, is based on Malorie Blackman’s acclaimed book. Adapted for the stage, it follows 13-year-old Cameron, who faces life-changing decisions regarding a pig heart transplant. The production tackles themes of ethics and integrity, offering thought-provoking content for a youthful audience.
- Review: Mean Girls, Savoy ***½Review: Mean Girls is a high school musical drama exploring the universal struggle to fit in, inspired by Tina Fey’s 20-year-old film. The Broadway musical, which opened in London in 2024, features vibrant staging and costumes. Praised for its strong performances, it recently won Best New Musical at the 2025 What’s On Stage awards.
- Trash, Sadlers Wells ****Award-winning Spanish theatre company Yllana and Toom Pak are currently performing the UK premiere tour of TRASH! at the Peacock Theatre. Trash! is absolutely Stomp for the next generation. Set in a recycling centre, the workers create percussive magic – and comedy – with waste including propane tanks, umbrellas, balls, toolboxes, horns and… Read more: Trash, Sadlers Wells ****
- Here You Come Again, New Wimbledon Theatre ****Camp, colourful, covidy fun and with just the right amount of poignancy, Here You Come Again is a very appealing night out for both fans of Dolly Parton and non-fans alike. Cut off from the world, we all struggled with our mental health in… Read more: Here You Come Again, New Wimbledon Theatre ****
- Much Ado About Nothing, Jamie Lloyd ****½Jamie Lloyd has become known for a stark grey and black palette, so it is a relief to find that he has now discovered the colour pink. His last foray into Shakespeare, The Tempest with Sigourney Weaver, suffered from drabness and a lack of… Read more: Much Ado About Nothing, Jamie Lloyd ****½
- Scissorhandz, Southwark Playhouse ***Scissorhandz at the Southwark Playhouse presents a musical take on a much-loved story, raising the question of whether a tale that has already been so effectively told actually needs another re-invention. There are some real strengths and flair in this production but it felt… Read more: Scissorhandz, Southwark Playhouse ***
- Ghost, New Wimbledon Theatre ***With stars Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg in the lead, Ghost was the highest grossing film of 1990 and the iconic pottery scene remains legendary and much-loved. Premiering in Manchester in 2011, Ghost the musical brings the beloved film back to life… Read more: Ghost, New Wimbledon Theatre ***
- Review: Play On, Lyric Hammersmith ****Review: Play On! transforms Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night into a lively 1940s Harlem jazz club, featuring 20 Duke Ellington songs. The show, directed by Michael Buffong, addresses race and sexism while following Vy, a female songwriter masquerading as a man. With dynamic performances, particularly from Rev, the production is a joyous celebration of black talent.
- &Juliet, New Wimbledon Theatre *****With three Olivier Awards and six WhatsOnStage Awards it is only right that &Juliet has another outing for the sake of both new and faithful audiences . The New Wimbledon Theatre is currently hosting the London leg of a touring version which loses none of what made… Read more: &Juliet, New Wimbledon Theatre *****
- Review: Matthew Bourne’s Oliver ****Please sir, can I have some more? We all know the words, but do we all really need any more Oliver? Red Bus Londinium says yes, we do.
- Jack and the Beanstalk, New Wimbledon Theatre ****The New Wimbledon Theatre played host to Jack and the Beanstalk this year, one of the 23 pantomimes producing by Crossroads pantomimes (who are also responsible for the pantomime at the London Palladium). Being part of such a large production stable, means that a… Read more: Jack and the Beanstalk, New Wimbledon Theatre ****
- Hijinks and Caviar, New Wimbledon Theatre **The New Wimbledon Theatre is currently championing a season of brand new plays, including Hijinks and Caviar. From the writing duo Moody & Moody, Hijinks and Caviar is billed as a comedy musical which will offer a night of murder mystery fun with a side… Read more: Hijinks and Caviar, New Wimbledon Theatre **
- Hairspray, New Wimbledon Theatre ***½The New Wimbledon Theatre currently plays host to a touring version of Hairspray. Based on John Water’s 1988 film of the same name, Hairspray is a staple feel-good musical. The musical’s first iteration on Broadway won 8 Tony Awards and then went on to win… Read more: Hairspray, New Wimbledon Theatre ***½
- Jesus Christ Superstar, New Wimbledon Theatre ****The New Wimbledon Theatre currently plays host to the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar. With strong vocals, a stark and simple staging and stunning choreography (which earned an Olivier nomination in its first iteration), there is much to enjoy… Read more: Jesus Christ Superstar, New Wimbledon Theatre ****
- Blizzard, Soho Theatre ****In Blizzard, now at the Soho Theatre, writer and director Emily Woof has created a one-woman poignant and at times both physical and philosophical comedy that taps into the midlife neuroses and daydreams we all ponder. Middle-aged, married and muddled, Dotty (Emily Woof) and… Read more: Blizzard, Soho Theatre ****
- King Lear, Riverside Studios ****How many words do you need to tell a story? Do words get in the way of story? Can you tell a story without them? Director Shu-wing Tang explores just this with his King Lear, which has had its European Premiere at the Riverside… Read more: King Lear, Riverside Studios ****
- Madagascar, New Wimbledon Theatre ****Based on the popular DreamWorks Animation film, Madagascar the Musical follows four animal friends who escape from New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to Madagascar. The production is a co-production between Selladoor Worldwide and the Theatre Royal Plymouth.… Read more: Madagascar, New Wimbledon Theatre ****
- The Cord, Bush Theatre ***The early days of parenthood are exhausting, destabilising and throw every relationship into a starker relief than previously. Too often in theatre and TV, these days are presented for either their comedy value or through an idealistic lens of the love which new parents… Read more: The Cord, Bush Theatre ***
- Agathe, Playground Theatre ****Thirty years since the Rwandan Genocide, Agathe at the Playground Theatre is a powerful piece of theatre storytelling, casting a research-informed gaze on a little known (and, as it turns out, short-lived) Rwandan leader, Agathe Uwilingiyimana. Playwright Angela J. Davis researched many testimonies and… Read more: Agathe, Playground Theatre ****
- Minority Report, Lyric Hammersmith****Based on the short story by American science fiction writer Philip K Dick, Minority Report in an adaptation by David Haig (on tour, currently at Lyric Hammersmith) explores the age old debate between pre-destiny and free will. Absolutely extraordinary staging places the action firmly… Read more: Minority Report, Lyric Hammersmith****
- In Clay, Upstairs at the Gatehouse *****Based on the true story of Marie-Berthe Cazin, a ceramic artist in 1930s Paris, In Clay (most recently at Upstairs at the Gatehouse) is a tender and moving one-woman musical. As she waits for her friend – fellow artist Henrietta Tirman – Cazin tells… Read more: In Clay, Upstairs at the Gatehouse *****
- Don’t.Make.Tea., Soho Theatre ***Birds of Paradise theatre are a Scottish touring group with disabled and non-disabled actors and a disability-led managing team. This structure brings a backdrop of authenticity to Don’t.Make.Tea. at the Soho Theatre which, while it is a farce, touches on some very real modern… Read more: Don’t.Make.Tea., Soho Theatre ***
- Shifters, Bush Theatre ****Tender love story Shifters by Benedict Lombe has been a sell-out success at the Bush Theatre and it seems hard to believe we might not see it in another incarnation soon. The Bush, under the artistic direction of Lynette Linton is going from strength… Read more: Shifters, Bush Theatre ****
- Power of Sail, Menier Chocolate Factory ***Power of Sail at the Menier Chocolate Factory examines and explores the limits of free speech. Even if we have the right to say anything do we have the right to say it anywhere? And what are the implications of that choice? Former protégé… Read more: Power of Sail, Menier Chocolate Factory ***
- Just for one day, Old Vic ****Just For One Day at the Old Vic revisits the seminal Geldof fundraising concert of 1985, the events that led up to it and all that came after. It is estimated that Live Aid was shown live in 150 countries and although I managed… Read more: Just for one day, Old Vic ****
- The King and I, Dominion Theatre ***The King and I (touring) is now playing at the Dominion Theatre where it offers a traditional staging of this Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Led by Helen George (of Call the Midwife fame) and Darren Lee (an experienced “King”), the performance ably presents the… Read more: The King and I, Dominion Theatre ***
- Metamorphosis, Lyric Hammersmith **Lemn Sissay, Lyric Hammersmith, Frantic Assembly, Kafka: this play had excellent credentials and there was every reason to hope for a profound and interesting show. Unfortunately, directorial choices had the cast hollering and the audience left feeling battered by the one-note performances. Any nuance… Read more: Metamorphosis, Lyric Hammersmith **
- Bronco Billy, Charing Cross Theatre ***Light, colourful, clean cowboy musical Bronco Billy is now playing at Charing Cross Theatre. A musical version of the 1980 Clint Eastwood western, we follow the antics of a wild west stage troupe as they “follow their dreams” to California. The ensemble work, lighting… Read more: Bronco Billy, Charing Cross Theatre ***
- Spymonkey’s The Frogs, Kiln Theatre ***Spymonkey’s The Frogs, now running at the Kiln Theatre is a return after some years for the Spymonkey troupe. If you love physical theatre and are a Spymonkey fan who wants to see the next step on their journey, you will be in for… Read more: Spymonkey’s The Frogs, Kiln Theatre ***
- Before After, Southwark Playhouse ***Before After, now running at the Southwark Playhouse started life in workshops in 2014 and most famously was livestreamed from the Southwark in 2020. It is now a two-part musical with live band. Its start in life will no doubt draw in the curious as… Read more: Before After, Southwark Playhouse ***
- Abba Voyage: tips and thoughtsAbba Voyage is a ground-breaking spectacle and it would be remiss of me to suggest any less. The use of technology to recreate an Abba concert experience is nothing short of ground-breaking and almost impossible to wrap your head around. There are some changes… Read more: Abba Voyage: tips and thoughts
- My neighbour Totoro, Barbican *****My Neighbour Totoro, now running at the Barbican is the return of the award-winning adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s anime masterpiece. A feast of music, puppetry and fine-acting, Totoro transports audiences into a magical, gentle fantasy world. Totoro is a true fusion of styles, making… Read more: My neighbour Totoro, Barbican *****
- Kim’s Convenience, Park Theatre ****Kim’s Convenience, now running at the Park Theatre is the play that preceded the Netflix sitcom. Playwright Ins Choi (who played Mr Kim’s son in the original stage play) stars as the eponymous Mr Kim and presents a warm-hearted but funny insight into both… Read more: Kim’s Convenience, Park Theatre ****
- Cowbois, Royal Court ***Cowbois, now running at the Royal Court is a West End transfer of a new RSC play which played to great acclaim in Stratford. The first half, set in a small Western town where the men are long since departed to the gold rush,… Read more: Cowbois, Royal Court ***
- God of Carnage, Lyric Hammersmith **The God of Carnage, now running at the Lyric Hammersmith is a re-staging of the award-winning play by Yasmina Reza. The play explores the tensions and undertones at a meeting between two sets of parents after one son has hurt the other. A strong… Read more: God of Carnage, Lyric Hammersmith **
- The little big things, Soho Place ****The Little Big Things is a new British musical which has just opened at @sohoplace. It is dividing critics and audiences, newspaper reviews have hovered around the 3 star marks while audiences are rapturous, crying and already coming for repeat viewings. My prediction is… Read more: The little big things, Soho Place ****
- Patriots, Noel Coward Theatre ****Patriots returns to the West End, playing at the Noel Coward Theatre. Patriots, through the lens of a key set of oligarchs takes us through the 1991 collapse of Russia. Some win, some lose in this massive jostling for reward and the play follows… Read more: Patriots, Noel Coward Theatre ****
- Tarantino Live, Riverside Studios ***Tarantino Live is an immersive (but not interactive) musical montage of Tarantino films played in a cabaret setting at the Riverside Studios in Hammersmith. It has played to sell-out crowds in the US and is playing in London for much of the summer. Show… Read more: Tarantino Live, Riverside Studios ***
- August in England, Bush Theatre *****Lenny Henry’s self-penned play is a witty, moving and hugely important in this year of the Windrush 75th anniversary staged at the Bush Theatre for six weeks only. That elderly Caribbean residents of the UK who had lived here since their childhoods had to… Read more: August in England, Bush Theatre *****
- Re-Member Me, Hampstead Theatre ****Dickie Beau’s self-penned play is a unique and thought-provoking piece of theatre. This is not a good choice for those who like a straightforward, traditionally staged narrative. It is a most unconventional part documentary, part mime, part memoir written and performed by a lip… Read more: Re-Member Me, Hampstead Theatre ****
- Invisible, Bush Theatre ***What stories do we tell? Whose stories? Who chooses? These are important questions asked in Invisible, a one man show featuring Nikhil Parmar, currently playing at the Bush Theatre and shortly due to travel to New York as part of the 59E59’s Brits Off… Read more: Invisible, Bush Theatre ***
- Oubliette (Volume Club) ****Oubliette, at the Other Palace, is a new musical written by Tom Barr-Forrest under the auspices of The Volume Club, a group of early career professionals founded in 2021 to support new writing. Barr-Forrest, a third year East 15 student, takes the lead role… Read more: Oubliette (Volume Club) ****
- Bleak expectations **, Criterion TheatreBleak Expectations, by Mark Evans, is based on the award-winning BBC Comedy. It is a pastiche of Dickens and, having seen the incredible Pride & Prejudice (sort of) at the same venue, we had high hopes. Unfortunately, Bleak Expectations does not live up to… Read more: Bleak expectations **, Criterion Theatre
- Candy Gigi – Friday Night Sinner ***Candy Gigi’s show, Friday Night Sinner, is unapologetically crude and defiantly over-the-top. There are signs warning of the explicit and interactive nature of the show before you go in (and content warnings on the website). If this is not your thing, it is not… Read more: Candy Gigi – Friday Night Sinner ***
- Christina Bianco – In Divine Company ****Christina Bianco delights, captivates and amuses audiences at the Menier Chocolate Factory in this funny one woman impressions show. A combination of set pieces (one song by multiple divas) and more improvised numbers in response to audience choices, it is a relaxing and diverting… Read more: Christina Bianco – In Divine Company ****
- Tony! [The Tony Blair Rock Opera] ***Authored by Harry Hill and Steve Brown, Tony! is a noisy musical look back at the Blair era. For those who lived through the era, it is a rousing (perhaps nostalgic) piece of fun. Younger members of the audience did find some elements hard… Read more: Tony! [The Tony Blair Rock Opera] ***
- Blanket Ban: Maltese Abortion Rights ***The issue of abortion rights in Malta is a hugely important and topical one and is one which Marta Valetta and Davinia Hamilton clearly are hugely impassioned by. The story of US woman, Andrea Prudente, stuck in Malta with a non-viable pregnancy in 2022… Read more: Blanket Ban: Maltese Abortion Rights ***
- It’s a Motherf**king Pleasure ****While I might have been too embarrassed to name the show at the Box Office once my tickets were in hand, this show was well worth it. Disability-led theatre company FlawBored have produced an irreverent, exposing and hilarious exploration of the complexities of being… Read more: It’s a Motherf**king Pleasure ****
- Berlusconi a new musical: “Evita on acid” ***The Southwark Playhouse, venue to Berlusconi, liken this new musical to Evita on acid and watching it does feel like being inside someone else’s feverish dream. The musical is closest in style to the cult classic Jerry Springer the Opera. (Incidentally, a thought I… Read more: Berlusconi a new musical: “Evita on acid” ***
- The Meaning of Zong ****Olaudah Equiano should be a household name, so it is fantastic that, in this play, Giles Terera brings his pivotal story to a wider audience. The deaths on the Zong are a story so important and disgraceful that that story should be heard, too.… Read more: The Meaning of Zong ****
- Black Superhero ***I enjoyed my outing to Black Superhero at the Royal Court today and it proved the kind of play that makes one want to talk to those around in the interval – much that resonates and much to chew over. The core group of… Read more: Black Superhero ***
- Ain’t Too Proud *****Ain’t Too Proud has everything you want in a jukebox musical (cracking songs, sizzling choreography) but so much more: a profound and moving story tied to American Black music history. The choreography is fantastic. Sergio Trujillo has produced some innovative and empathetic movement all… Read more: Ain’t Too Proud *****
- Lehman Trilogy *****We all loved this sweeping family saga which gave insights into the development (and fall) of investment banks, particularly Lehman Brothers. It is long and has only three cast members, so is not the show for you if you struggle with you struggle with… Read more: Lehman Trilogy *****
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