Deep in the bowels of the 'Curtains Up' pub, lays a little cellar theatre that lends a unique sense of authenticity to this tale from the 1800s. The very dark and candlelit space seems almost carved from the walls, and the rickety chairs and cushions only enhance the ambience and create a re-imagining of watching the local travelling players perform. Knowing that this is a very special adaptation, being staged for the first time in English from its native Norwegian, it is amazing how … [Read more...]
Review of Rasta Thomas’ Dance Company: Romeo and Juliet
I don't say this often, but 'Wow!' Technical difficulties may have given the show a false start but it failed to dampen the audience’s mood. The legendary Peacock Theatre, part of the famous Sadler's Wells family, is a perfect venue with plenty of space, great acoustics and spectacular lighting to show off what was to be such an explosion of talent. I confess to knowing nothing about the technicalities of dance, I wouldn't know a Pas de deux from a 'how dya do'. Although not faultless, there … [Read more...]
5 Star OTHELLO at The Rose Playhouse Bankside
The Rose Playhouse is on its way to being up there with Shakespeare’s other ‘shining star’ the Globe Theatre. The Rose may be smaller and more rudimental but what it lacks in size and stature it makes up for with ambition, charm and pedigree. In an intimate space hovering above and incorporating the site of The Rose’s archaeological dig, Othello is performed as a 21st century concept. The office setting is an inspired choice by director Pamela Schermann. Where else can you find such a den of … [Read more...]
Review of THE CHERRY ORCHARD at New Wimbledon Studio Theatre
Tucked on the side of the impressive New Wimbledon Theatre is a studio, a space for those looking for something a little different; and this adaptation of The Cherry Orchard is just that. The play was first performed in 1904 and originally set in Anton Chekhov’s native Russia. This adaptation by Patrick Kennedy bravely transports the story in time and space to Britain in 1976. The attention to detail is impressive; costumes, set and style are exceptional, and for the most part it works. The … [Read more...]
Review of Three Sisters at The White Bear Theatre Kennington
It is Chekhov, but not as we know it! In the very warm and pleasant surrounds of the White Bear Theatre, Kennington, I took my seat with certain expectations of seeing one of Chekhov's most famous and popular plays. Three Sisters was written in 1901 and seen as very modernist for its time. I was delighted by FiasCo Theatre's contemporary interpretation of this classic - not only modernised but also westernised, giving the play a whole new fervour. The intimate space set as a lounge area in … [Read more...]
Review of Jekyll and Hyde at The Lion and Unicorn Theatre
Jekyll and Hyde Corpus Delecti Tucked away in Kentish Town is the Lion and Unicorn public house, a most charismatic and tranquil spot in a busy city; and foundation to a charming theatre space perched on top. On entering the performance area an immediate feel of engagement and involvement is experienced as the walls and floors are all daubed with the rantings and calculations of either a mad man or a genius, and this question of distinction between the two is the basis of the whole play. With … [Read more...]