An exciting and captivating journey into the psychology of powerplay and dominance, TRH Productions and Scott M Delman’s production of David Ives’ Venus in Fur dresses to impress and hits exactly the right notes. An expose on gender roles and shifting perceptions of femininity, this production is a captivating tug-o- war with self-respect, power and authority at stake. When Vanda Jordan knocks at the door, director Thomas Novachek thinks he has yet another nauseatingly clueless actress on his … [Read more...]
Review of The Great Gatsby presented by The Guild of Misrule
When Mr Gatsby invites you to one of his gala events, it’s a no-brainer that you’ll be attending. Music, dancing and the very best libations (in substantial quantities despite prohibition) are all to be expected, and of course, there is the guarantee of opulence. But perhaps for some, such an invitation provides a chance to experience something even more exciting - the course of true love. A man of mystery who keeps his cards close expects the same of his guests so there’s not much I can tell … [Read more...]
Review of 50th Anniversary production of Hair at The Vaults
“We starve, look, at one another short of breath, walking proudly in our winter coats, wearing smells from laboratories, facing a dying nation of moving paper fantasy. Listening for the new told lies, with supreme visions of lonely tunes.” It’s a cliché to say that history will always repeat itself, but sitting in Waterloo vaults and listening to these lyrics resonate just as strongly as they did in 1967, it becomes much less of a cliché and much more of a reality. Set in the East Village … [Read more...]
Review of UnCorked Theatre’s How To Solve A Problem Like Murder
Cemetery A and crematorium to the left, Cemetery B to the right - and it appears to be getting dark earlier than expected. You know it’s going to be an exceptional immersive experience when you’re unsettled before the show even begins! But if the walk along the necropolis and through several dark and deserted streets isn’t enough to get your pulse racing, this show certainly will! Uncorked Theatre’s How to Solve a Problem Like Murder is a voyeuristic immersive production that completely … [Read more...]
Review of Smoke & Oakum’s Kings at New Diorama Theatre
Many have said that to benefit from the system you have to play the game, but when the game is geared against you, and success is virtually impossible, are you still obliged to play by the rules? Smoke and Oakum’s critically acclaimed production Kings is not what you’d expect from a piece of this type. In recent years there appears to be no shortage of ‘socially aware’ theatre appearing in the London scene, however this piece, written and directed by Oli Forsyth, delivers something entirely … [Read more...]
Review of Cabaret at New Wimbledon Theatre
I should probably preface this by saying that Cabaret is one of my all-time favourites, although I haven’t seen a production since the 2002 Australian cast staring Tina Arena and Toby Allen! I’ve been disappointed a few times, not including the previous example, but still, you find yourself channelling your inner Liza and thinking “Maybe this time, I’ll be lucky!” and again taking the plunge. So, coming out the other side, what’s the verdict? Bill Kenwright’s production, directed by Rufus … [Read more...]
The 5 Stages of Moe at Marble Arch Theatre
Five Guys Named Moe is an experience, to say the least, and it begins the moment you exit Marble Arch tube station! You’d be forgiven for wondering where Marble Arch Theatre is if you’ve not been there before, but all becomes clear when a giant pop-up New Orleans bar appears before your eyes! Entering the venue you’re immediately thrown in the deep south with everything from the music, décor, cocktails and sweets selected to ensure a superbly immersive event – not at all your traditional … [Read more...]