March 5th Violence against Woman Day
A new production of The Vagina Monologues
Call the Soho Theatre 020 7478 0135 to book
£10.00 tickets on the door at the box office

It's a fully theatrical, very physical performance with a cast of 5 women, including Clean Break's Gem Skii, Le Coq movement expert Debra Stych, actress and activist Cassie Raine, and Claire Cahill of the Drama Centre.

A showcase of feminine and feminist talent across theatre, comedy and film with talks and workshops, SYNT has exclusive rights to stage The Vagina Monologues and also presents A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant and A Prayer, a selection of monologues edited by Eve Ensler that includes the premiere of Maya Angelou’s Woman Work, as part of the City of Joy Gala on 20th March.

V-Day is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls. V-Day is a catalyst that promotes creative events to increase awareness, raise money and revitalise the spirit of existing anti-violence organisations. V-Day generates broader attention for the fight to stop violence against women and girls, including rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation and sexual slavery.

Last updated Sunday 21 Feb 2010

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Apollo Cinemas are presenting Opera & Ballet at selected venues around the country.
Check out the website: http://www.apollocinemas.com/alternativecontent.aspx
We have a very special offer for Seefilmfirst and Audience Club Members – Two tickets for the price of one for the following showings:
COSI FAN TUTTE PG
Sung in Italian with English subtitles?
Sunday 21 February 2010?at 2.30pm
Monday 22 February 2010 at 7pm
Altrincham (Denmark Street, Altrincham, WA14 2WG)
Fareham (Market Quay, 3 Vannes Parade, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 0BX)
Redditch (Kingfisher Centre, Redditch, Wotcestershire, B97 4EQ)
Stroud (Merrywalks, Stroud, GL5 1RY)

Filmed at the Salzburg Festival in 2009, the director Claus Guth’s Così Fan Tutte is a brilliant and innovative interpretation of Mozart’s ever-popular comic opera. A tale of love and fidelity put to the test, Miah Persson and Isabel Leonard star as the hoodwinked sisters Fiordiligi and Dorabella, with Florian Boesch as Guglielmo and Bo Skovhus as Alfonso. Complemented by a dramatic modern set and the Vienna Philharmonic orchestra conducted by Adam Fischer, Così Fan Tutte is a fantastic big screen experience.

LA TRAVIATA PG
Sung in Italian with English subtitles?
Sunday 21 March 2010?at 2.30pm
Monday 22 March 2010 at 7pm
Altrincham (Denmark Street, Altrincham, WA14 2WG)
Fareham (Market Quay, 3 Vannes Parade, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 0BX)
Redditch (Kingfisher Centre, Redditch, Wotcestershire, B97 4EQ)
Stroud (Merrywalks, Stroud, GL5 1RY)
Burnley (Hollywood Park, Manchester Road, Burnley, BB11 2EJ)
Leamington Spa (Portland Place, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV32 5ET)

Verdi’s tragic opera, La Traviata, the story of Violetta the courtesan and her doomed love affair with the nobleman, Alfredo, is a much-loved favourite of the opera world. This sumptuous 2007 production from Teatro Alla Scala sees Angela Gheorghiu in her critically acclaimed debut as Violetta and she leads an all-star cast, which includes Ramón Vargas and Roberto Frontali. Conducted by Lorin Maazel and directed by Liliana Cavani, La Traviata is a fabulous treat brought alive on the big screen.
To book tickets for this very special offer:
• Call the box office 0871 220 6000
• You will need to say the cinema you are booking for & once you are connected say "operator"
• you will then be asked if you want to speak to the cinema box office, to which you need to reply "yes"
• you will then be connected directly to the box office where you say you would like to book tickets using the Seefilmfirst two for one offer....
Please bring a copy of this TEXT to the cinema for verification

Last updated Friday 19 Feb 2010

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Apollo cinemas have a presentation of Celine: Through the eyes of the World, in cinemas for four days only!

Check out the website: http://www.thehotticket.net/celinedion/

We have a very special offer for Seefilmfirst and showfilm first members – 2 tickets for the price of one for the showings on Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th February at the following locations:

Apollo West End, Lower Regent Street (just down from Picadilly Circus)
Altrincham, Burnley, Fareham, Redditch and Stroud
The offer is available for 2pm (Matinee) or 7pm performances

To book tickets for this very special offer:
• Call the box office 0871 220 6000
• You will need to say the cinema you are booking for & once you are connected say "operator"
• you will then be asked if you want to speak to the cinema box office, to which you need to reply "yes"
• you will then be connected directly to the box office where you say you would like to book tickets using the Seefilmfirst two for one offer....
Please bring a copy of this email to the cinema for verification

THE HOT TICKET'S PRESENTATION OF
"CELINE: THROUGH THE EYES OF THE WORLD
Celine Dion, the international superstar and best-selling female artist of all time, has toured around the world and back again, and now, Sony Pictures Releasing’s special programming division, The Hot Ticket, will let audiences follow her everywhere. For a limited engagement beginning early next year in wide release, Celine: Through the Eyes of the World will bring Celine Dion’s 2008-2009 Taking Chances World Tour to theaters. This special motion picture event gives Dion fans who attended the extremely popular tour – which placed Dion second only to Madonna in ticket sales in 2008 – another chance to experience the magical event, this time from a vantage point unparalleled by any ticket.

Last updated Tuesday 16 Feb 2010

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Alex von Saxe Productions presents:

When The Lilac Blooms, My Love
By Jane Huxley
Directed by Simon Beyer

Starring:

JUDY CORNWELL (Keeping Up Appearances)
and
SALLY FARMILOE-NEVILLE (Howards Way)

Leicester Square Theatre
6 Leicester Place, London WC2H 7BX
14th April – 1st May 2010
Previews 2.30pm & 7.30pm 14th April
Mondays – Saturdays 7.30pm. Matinees Wed & Sat 2.30pm




When The Lilac Blooms, My Love
When The Lilac Blooms, My Love is a new play by published author Jane Huxley. Set in modern-day ‘suburbia’, Nicky is a young woman who returns to the family home to break the news to her family that she is pregnant, taking the reluctant father-to-be (Darius) with her. On meeting the family - Simona (mother) and Milton (step-father) and the live-in lodger Miss Mackensie – a web of hidden passions unfolds that challenges the bonds between them.

Jane Huxley’s published novels include Morgan’s Castle, For The Love Of Penny Whistler (“Glitter and gutter…lovelorn, war-torn. A compelling read.” Simon Cowell) and Summer Night, Winter Moon (“This is a thrilling, cleverly constructed story of love distorted by jealousy.”- Dame Beryl Bainbridge). She lives and works in New York, London and the South of France. She is married to an American physician and has two daughters.

Judy Cornwell (Keeping Up Appearances)
Judy was born in London in 1940 and educated in England and Australia. Most fondly remembered as the long-suffering sister of Hyacinth Bucket, Daisy, in five series of the hugely popular BBC series Keeping Up Appearances, Judy actually began her theatrical career as a dancer and singer in pantomime, revue / vaudeville, cabaret and musicals. From there, Judy changed course and secured roles as juvenile leads and juvenile characters in theatre repertory companies, which soon lead to exciting TV work and leading roles in theatre productions. Throughout her career Judy has embraced a broad spectrum of media: stage work, TV, radio and films both for cinema and television, including Santa Claus The Movie (Mrs Claus), Moody And Pegg (Daphne Pegg/ITV), Eastenders (Queenie/BBC), Doctors (BBC), Midsomer Murders (ITV) and Richard Attenborough’s movie Cry Freedom. Additionally, in recent years, Judy has lectured on the cruise ship QE2, has written four novels: Cow And Cow Parsley, Fishcakes At The Ritz, The Seventh Sunrise, Fear & Favour; and her autobiography, Adventures of a Jelly Baby.

Sally Farmiloe-Neville (Howards Way)
Sally began her career as a fashion and advertising model to finance her training in the performing arts independently. Her theatre credits include Miss Gotobed in Dirty Linen (Arts Theatre / lead), Naomi in Bonkers (National Tour / lead), Mrs Barker in A Bit Between The Teeth (National Tour) and Evelyn in Absent Friends (National Tour). Sally’s first TV role was Vicki in the iconic Steptoe And Son and she has appeared in numerous ‘tellies’, the most popular being Bergerac and Casualty for the BBC and The Bill and Funny Man for ITV. She is best known for playing Dawn Williams, ‘The Scheming Bitch’ for 3 years in the BBC’s Howard’s Way. Her many film parts include Lady Evelyn in In Search Of Tutankhamen (Fox), Francesca in Spanish Fly (Columbia Tri-Star), Mrs A in Hell To Pay (Miramax) and Margot in Dear Rosie (Film Four). Sally is also an accomplished presenter and author. She is Senior Presenter for W6 Studio and B Well TV and has just launched Kazzy And Sally TV with producer/director R. KAZ. Her latest best-selling book, Sensual Pleasures And The Art Of Morphing Into A Health Goddess has been praised as “the ultimate health and beauty directory” (NICKY CLARKE). Sally is a member of Mensa.

Last updated Thursday 11 Feb 2010

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My Fifteen Minutes - The musical
By Simon Beyer
Directed by Natascha Metherell

New Wimbledon Studio 17 – 20 March 2010. 7.45pm

This is it! The big moment arrives! A chance to be discovered: fame is just an audition away! You’ve been dreaming all your life of being discovered and now the media spotlight is on YOU! An instant superstar and all your troubles are behind you - the pop-star life of fame, fortune and adoration are yours for the taking. Everyone loves you. Everyone wants to be you. Do you have what it takes to make it? Can you be the next overnight sensation? Will you be truly happy? And what happens to your friends and family along the way? With original music, My Fifteen Minutes is a fun-filled musical journey about fame.

Part of New Wimbledon Theatre’s Fresh Ideas: Fresh Ideas is a season of new work at the New Wimbledon Studio showcasing the best of new writers, directors and theatre companies. Each week from February to May we will present a brand new piece of theatre and after the show you will have the chance to feed back your comments directly to its creators.

Venue: New Wimbledon Studio,
Address: New Wimbledon Theatre, the Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG

Performance Dates: Wednesday 17 March – Saturday 20 March 2010 at 7.45pm

Box Office: 0844 871 7646
www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon
Admission: Full: £10.00. Concessions: £7.50.

Produced by: Words and Picture Productions
Writer: Simon Beyer
Director: Natascha Metherell
Music Director: Naveen Arles
Cast includes: Jodie Kumblé, Judith Quin, Bethan James, Howard Corlett

Last updated Thursday 11 Feb 2010

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Madness in Valencia, Lope de Vega February 10, 2010

Love drives people insane, and Valencia is famous for its madhouse. A transfer from the White Bear by Black and White Rainbow, this bawdy comedy of errors by the 16th century Spanish playwright Lope de Vega now playing at Trafalgar Studios is the funniest thing I’ve seen in ages.

As we came in, a writer is scribbling away on the floor, and the play begins with the parts being handed out to the players who study their lines. We are occasionally drawn in to the making of the play, a device which works well in the intimate space with a stage that may be even smaller than the White Bear’s. This isn’t a play where you’re in any danger of being forced to interact, but the audience is certainly part of the performance.

Then we’re off at a gallop. Floriano kills a prince and flees to his friend Valerio, who hides him in the local asylum. Meanwhile Erifila has eloped with her servant, Leonato, who steals her jewelry and abandons her to be found by Pisano, psychiatrist at the asylum, and taken there as a patient. Fedra, niece of Sancho, the asylum owner, falls in love with Floriano as does her maid, Laida. Valerio falls in love with Erifila, who also falls in love with Floriano. Floriano falls in love with Erifila, while being terrified of being caught for murder. I hope you’ve got all that.

The romp that ensues is a glorious farce, as the talented cast weave through misunderstanding and intrigue to an apparently unsatisfying ending, which is resolved in a way that had the entire theatre in stitches.

By the way, make sure you go back early in the interval to see the fragile fourth wall tumble as Laurence Piller’s leery psychiatrist Pisano, his own wits more than a little touched, ad-libs to the audience, seeking out tips for treatments and borrowing drinks.

Madness in Valencia plays at Trafalgar Studios 2 until 6 March,

Last updated Wednesday 10 Feb 2010

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The Brockley Jack Theatre Ltd 410 Brockley Road, Brockley, London, SE4 2DH
tel: 020 8291 1206 email: admin@brockleyjack.co.uk website: www.brockleyjack.co.uk
Brockley Jack Studio Theatre
Ruby Honeycut Corset:
cellist, singer, serial killer presents… Ruby's Last Confession
Held under house arrest in the dungeons at her family home, Ruby contemplates escape. Dawn approaches and the heavy hand of the executioner grows restless.
Can the Blacksmith's fire and the love of a magician save her, and is there time for one last magic trick before the sun rises…
This intimate performance combines the best in dark comedy and live music, with some luxurious storytelling. Following three years on the national Burlesque scene, Chloe Bezer is bringing her kleinkunst cabaret sensation to The Brockley Jack Studio Theatre.

THEN IN FEBRUARY NEW PLAYS AND PLAYWRIGHTS WITH WRITE NOW

Listings Information

Tuesday 16 February – Saturday 6 March 2010

Compression Tuesday 16 - Saturday 20 February at 7.45pm
by Joy Wilkinson

Fighting Tuesday 23 - Saturday 27 February at 7.45pm
by Tom Green

The Bitch from Brixton Tuesday 2 - Saturday 6 March at 7.45pm
by Kate Gallon &
Kate-Lynn Hocking

SEE BROCKLEY JACK WEBSITE FOR FULL INFORMATION WWW.brockleyjack.co.uk

Dates: Saturday 23 January Time: 8pm
Tickets: £10.00 full, £8.00 conc., (suitable for over 16s)
Online booking www.ticketweb.co.uk (no booking fee)

Last updated Sunday 17 Jan 2010

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“An acting, writing, directing triumph.” – remotegoat.co.uk
“Fake breasts are like people’s kids – you’ve got to tell them they’re cute, no matter how ugly.” – Faith

In this one-woman show, actress Laura Pradelska will have you laughing from start to finish at the insane world that is the strip club. Written by American playwright Cyd Casados, STILL LIFE AT THE SUSHI BAR follows exotic dancer “Faith” during her transformation from girl-next-door into her sexy on-stage persona. Once in this world she guides us through the nuts and bolts of the business in all its absurdity.

Pradelska grabs the audience from the moment she takes the stage and doesn’t let go. "What's it like to be a stripper? This play says it all. An excellent performance that is funny, sad and real." – Greg Tallent, London Fringe

Laura is absolutely brilliant in her portrayal of a strong together woman doing a job that she says she likes, but the cracks are appearing, the customers have their own agendas and life in the glamour business shows it's not easy to be beautiful!

Call Leicester Square Theatre on 0844 847 2475 to book tickets From Feb 11th

Last updated Friday 15 Jan 2010

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Caroline Parker gives a virtuoso performance as Sue and her alter ego Tammy as she takes us on a journey of fame, frocks and false eyelashes battling with true love from northern Bingley Bridge.
“The cracking songs are all achingly embodied so that every audience member... becomes embroiled in her passionate performance.... easily the best camp deaf Northern cabaret ever.” Critics’ Choice Time Out

No one remembers mousey old Sue, the undertaker from Bingley Bridge. No one knows she’s a Diva fanatic, until one day she is offered a cabaret spot at Harry’s Place.

From 27th Jan till 6th Feb at Theatre Royal Stratford East
Tickets are only £8.00 with the Audience Club so call the Box Office on 020 8534 0310 or book on line at www.stratfordeast.com

Last updated Thursday 14 Jan 2010

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the professional and personal elements are beautifully integrated in Tim Whitnall's script. The highs and lows are skilfully interwoven. Bob Golding's solo performance is a 'tour de force' - his pace and energy left me exhausted. Many of the jokes, corny even in their day, have worn badly and the familiar body mannerisms too often copied in the years since. The speed of the production under Guy Masterson's direction, however, saves it from tedium. The device of representing Wise by a dummy succeeds and the ending, which could so easily have struck a sombre or maudlingly sentimental note, is beautifully crafted by the playwright.
Anyway it's Christmas, a time that produced so many M.and W. TV specials ( the 1977 edition was watched, we are told, by 28,000,000 viewers) and it's cold outside. What better excuse for those of us 'of a certain age' to get in the warm together and wallow in nostalgia? Going from the enthusiatic standing ovation after the finale so say most of us.
If only I found him funnier!

Last updated Tuesday 15 Dec 2009

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If you want to get great deals on normal theatre ticket prices, then go on line to Theatre Monkey, lots of interesting information about locations of seats and the best deals in town.

New book "Theatremonkey, A Guide to London's West End" continues to attract attention. Following a wonderful half page feature in the Evening Standard newspaper; Readers' Digest magazine, The Sunday Times, and even Radio 4 have given the monkey scribblings some attention. Find out more on the book's blog at http://redsquirrelbooks.com/theatremonkey/.

Last updated Wednesday 09 Dec 2009

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The Union Theatre in association with Antenna Productions proudly presents the follow up to last year's adult panto "It's Behind You!"
Written by Philip Lawrence Music by Richard Bates
Directed by Sasha Regan and Choreographed by Lee Greenaway

AUDITIONING NOW! The HEX FACTOR is coming to Pantoville.
A magical talent competition that makes dreams come true.
What's your greatest wish? How far will you go to get it?
And what will you sacrifine to keep it?
Your friends? Your family? A life?

With an amazing all new score of jazzy songs, a huge sexy cast invites you to a steamy cabaret club where anything goes and there's saucy humour aplenty!

For 16 years and up - Naughty but nice!
Every night they are looking for one audience member to join the cast for a (pre-arranged) two minutes of fame on stage plus a free drink! So tell all your friends to come down and book for this up to the 20 Dec and then again in the New Year, only £15 a seat
C A L L the BOX OFFICE on 020 7261 9876 Tuesdays only £10.00
There is a cafe at the Theatre to grab a bite before the show.

Last updated Monday 07 Dec 2009

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Birmingham Stage Company’s “Skellig” provides a magical family Christmas treat in aid of Asia’s tortured bears

On Tuesday 22nd December, between 7-9.30 pm, the Birmingham Stage Company (BSC) will present their magical production of David Almond’s award-winning “Skellig” at a charity gala in aid of Animals Asia Foundation and its work to end cruelty and restore respect for all animals across Asia.

Following last year’s hugely successful gala performance of “The Jungle Book” the BSC, justly famous for its family productions, has generously donated this performance of “Skellig” at the UCL Bloomsbury Theatre, London to delight families and children of all ages during the Christmas season. All proceeds from the evening will be donated to Animals Asia, whose flagship project is to bring an end to the practice of farming endangered Asiatic black bears for their bile across China and Vietnam. The charity works with the Chinese and Vietnamese governments to rescue many of the tragic victims of the farms to the peace and safety of its two world class sanctuaries where they can live out their lives free from pain and fear.

The gala will be a very special occasion, attended both by the founder and CEO of Animals Asia, Jill Robinson MBE, and by its special UK Patrons, Virginia McKenna OBE and “Flog It” presenter, Paul Martin.

David Almond’s book Skellig, published in 1998, became an instant classic, snatching the Whitbread Children's Book Award from Harry Potter and winning the prestigious Carnegie Medal. BSC first presented their stage production, to great acclaim and full houses in both Birmingham & London last year. This success has led to the show being revived for a new 10 week autumn tour and a Christmas season at the Bloomsbury – the company’s fifth successive Christmas show at this venue.

Skellig tells the story of ten-year-old Michael, who had been looking forward to moving into a new house. But now his baby sister is ill and his parents are frantic. Then Michael wanders into the crumbling garage and sees something lying beneath the spider webs and flies – is it a man or an animal? Michael confides in his new friend Mina and together they carry the creature Skellig into the light, changing their world forever.

David Almond’s eerie and magical stage version of his own book is suitable for all ages 7+. The title role will be played by BSC’s Actor/Manager Neal Foster.

"The BSC's production of this wondrous and multi-layered story is riveting. Skellig is powerfully played by Neal Foster and his presence is awesome. Raw emotion contrasts with great tenderness and the audience gave it thunderous applause."
The Stage

"This is simply an amazing piece of theatre, a fantastic adaptation of the novel. The audience was spellbound."
Solihull Times

Tickets cost £20 and are available from UCL Bloomsbury Theatre box office on 0207 388 8822 or on line at www.thebloomsbury.com/skelligmoonbeargala. Concessions for families, students, unwaged and children are also available. The performance is not suitable for children under 7 years.

For more information on the work of Animals Asia, please contact Nicky Vyvyan-Robinson on 07778 313250 or email nvyvyanrobinson@animalsasia.org or visit www.animalsasia.org

Last updated Tuesday 01 Dec 2009

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The Audience Club Gift Certificates are now available. Give a theatre lover you know an Annual Membership to say Happy Christmas, Happy Birthday, or simply Thank You. A gift that really will last the whole year.

Call 020 7708 5770 or email angela@theaudienceclub.com for more details.

Last updated Tuesday 01 Dec 2009

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A gothic, alternative play now moved to Leicester Square Theatre, Soho
Susannah York and Tim Woodward

Six characters in search of a venue...
A derelict church...
A circus...
A tragic secret...
Who is the stranger, dressed in black..?
Why is there a dead girl in the trunk...?

Six characters in search of redemption...
Only a MIRACLE can save them.

A strong cast of six is lead by the Oscar nominated Susannah York (screen star of films: “The Battle of Britain”, “The Killing of Sister George”, Tom Jones”, Superman”) with Tim Woodward (National Theatre, Globe, Almeida) and Lynne Miller (The Bill’s Cathy Marshall).

If you were not lucky enough to get tickets through the club then
enter TicketWeb into your browser: www.ticketweb.co.uk. This show is going to be a real winner,, book NOW! Tel: 08444 77 1000

Last updated Thursday 26 Nov 2009

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Monday 30th November 2009 Starting at 19:30pm until 2am
£15 in advance, £20 on the door

For one night and one night only, the glamour of Hollywood cabaret returns to the stage at the legendary Madame JoJo’s. To celebrate World Aid’s Day 2009, hosts Sharon Marshall and Polly Fey will take you on a journey full of song, dance and entertainment from Gershwin to Disney.

An extravaganza of stunning costumes and wigs, the Red Ribbon Revue will be full of surprises and sparkle with talented performers including Julie Lynn, Benny Maslov
Chiara Castania and Ildy Minardi.

With the first show beginning at 8:30pm, a second at 9:30pm and another at 10:30pm, the event will then continue throughout the night and past midnight with DJ Alex J Steed. The Red Ribbon Revue will be the first charity event on the 1st December 2009 in the UK to kick off World Aids Day 2009 in style.

The number of people in the UK living with HIV has trebled over the last ten years meaning it has never been more essential to raise awareness for this cause. Proceeds from the evening will be donated to the Terrence Higgins Trust, one of the first charities to be set up in response to the AIDS epidemic and has been at the forefront of the fight against HIV ever since.

Full of glitz and glamour with fantastic raffle prizes to be won, this spectacular event won’t fail to dazzle and enthral from start to finish.

Only 200 £15 tickets will be available in advance. Online booking for £15 tickets is available from 1st November 2009 at www.ticketweb.co.uk Tickets will be £20 on the door.

Click on this link then enter Red Ribbon and grab your tickets now for a great night.

www.ticketweb.co.uk

Last updated Saturday 21 Nov 2009

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Eurovision star and musical sensation Nicki French will be performing a very special one off concert at St Paul’s Church Covent Garden on Thursday 26 November 2009 at 7.30 pm. '...The little lady with the BIG voice...' - Pat Sharp - DJ (Capital, Heart FM)

This will be the third evening of cabaret at St Paul ’s Church Covent Garden, all part of the plan to ‘bring yet more theatre into The Actors’ Church.’

All tickets £10 Disco Diva Nicki sings your favourite anthems and treats you to the delights of her successsful career in Musical Theatre.

Buy tickets on the door or phone 08444 771000 to reserve
www.ticketweb.co.uk

The Actor's Church, Bedford Street, Covent Garden.

Last updated Thursday 12 Nov 2009

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3 November till 6 December. Check the courtyard Theatre website or call 0871 297 0740.

ABOUT THE SHOW
Truly Fierce Productions presents the world premiere of the outrageous comedy Faithless Bitches. Brace yourself for the startling story of former skid row starlet Monique Masters as she claws her way from the gutter to the Hollywood hills... by any means necessary. A tale of blue movies, black hearts, long nails and short skirts – this is the American Dream with a pistol in its garter belt.

Faithless Bitches is a post-post-feminist romp that looks at the lives of Monique Masters and Pamela Fairchild, two broads hungry as wolves to land the lead role in the big budget nostalgia film Faithless Bitches. Their rivalry extends beyond the professional, sucking everybody around them into a one-way trip to a climax that is as hysterical as it is unsettling. “There’s a name for women like us...”

Last updated Thursday 29 Oct 2009

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FREE CONCERT - November 27th Lunchtime 13:00
Regent Hall, 275 Oxford Street
The Spanish Pianist Abel Soto Martel
Programme: Turina, Castillo & Albeniz pieces.
Invite your music-loving friends to attend, please contact mazelle.cooke@gmail.com
for free tickets.

Last updated Wednesday 28 Oct 2009

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It's an online TV show so it can be watched either by going to www.leavetoenter.com or to our BlipTV channel: http://leavetoenter.blip.tv/ and therefore it can be watched at anytime!

Some info about the show:
Leave To Enter is the hilarious, new web-based TV show following the adventures of Sean McCaffrey, an Irish-American living in London, unsure if he's allowed to be in the country or not. While trying to make it as a chef, he's generally trying to get out of whatever trouble he's got himself into on that particular day. Helping (or hindering) his efforts are his Irish girlfriend Donnla, her combative sister Marie, Londoner Will and his Icelandic sidekick Mel, the “famous” Ben Aldridge and a whole swathe of friends from all walks of life.
Most of Leave To Enter is shot in the north London suburb of Crouch End. A vibrant and friendly community, already with a long history in the arts, it is both a location for the show and home of many its cast and crew. Shot on a shoestring budget, Leave To Enter is the debut of Room Enough Productions: started in 2009 by Sean, David Palliser and Jon-Jack Baldwin.

Last updated Tuesday 06 Oct 2009

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**£65 HEADSHOT OFFER BY ELYSE MARKS**

Here are the details of my £65 headshot offer! Feel free to pass on to any friends you think may be interested. More examples of my work can be found at

www.elysemarksphotography.com and yet more at my facebook group "Headshots by Elyse Marks"

Last updated Monday 05 Oct 2009

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PLAYWRITING COURSE WITH PERFORMANCE AT ROSE THEATRE, BANKSIDE

This exiting new six week course is held in Greenwich on Saturday mornings. You will be working towards writing a 20 minute play of your choice which will be then taken by a pro director and actors and turned into a public performance at the world famous 'Rose Theatre' on London's Bankside (next to the Globe), the home of Marlowe and Shakespeare. This course is aimed at the beginner and taken by a tutor who currently has productions all over the UK including one play he wrote which has now been seen at over 100 large scale regional theatres. You will learn about plot, staging and will be looking at numerous forms of theatre writing to get ideas on writing styles.

Next course starts 24th October. Normal rates are £165 but mention the Audience Club and as a member you pay £135.

www.practicalproductions.co.uk

email: practicalproductions@hotmail.com

(mention audience club when you respond for the discount)

Last updated Friday 02 Oct 2009

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An exploration of the queer sensibility of A.E.Housman, in his own words.

Conceived and Presented by Mansel David.

Alfred Edward Housman (1859-1936), an English classical scholar and poet, best known for his cycle of poems "A Shropshire Lad", was the subject of Tom Stoppard's 1997 National Theatre play "The Invention of Love", described at the time as "the most emotionally powerful and enthralling play of his career" - and this "from the bare bones of the dry life of A.E.
Housman".
The clues are there in the poetry - if you know where to look.

The Rosemary Branch Theatre
2 Shepperton Road, London, N1 3DT

Thursday 29th October @ 7.30 p.m.

Box Office: 020 7704 6665
www. rosemarybranch.co.uk

Last updated Friday 18 Sep 2009

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Hi Angela,

It has been a great year theatre wise for me, and I am looking forward to continuing my membership.

I have to mention some of great shows and great venues I had the chance to see; the very first show I saw with Audience Club was 'The Dealer's Choice' at Menier Theatre, beutiful venue and superb performances. It did not stop there;
Jenufa came to Arcola, White Bear theater in neighbouring Kennington gave a chance to see a great all woman cast in Walking on water, Prayer for my daugther stirred up some controversy, then the Belly dancer who married an Ambassador and I could go on and on...

It is just to let you know how much I have enjoyed the variety of shows and great choices brought to me be Audience Club and due to symbolic price of £2/ticket I could enjoy all shows that took my fancy instead of only one or two a year,

See you in the next year. J

Last updated Saturday 12 Sep 2009

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Arts Theatre, Great Newport Street.
For the first few minutes I thought I wasn't going to enjoy this show as Robyn Peterson told her tale of becoming a fashion model.
But as the performance warmed up so did I and I was hooked by the time of her relevations of playing at 'mummy drag', her and her sister dressing up in her mother's Gucci and fashion wear on the nights that she declared that she would be out late 'bowling', for though I was never a young girl and had no sister as a closeted gay teen I too played 'mummy drag' when my own mother was down the pub at nights.
Her later caricature impressions of Karl Lagerfeld and the fashion world seem more realistic than what were probably the more realistic impressions of those closer to home, but she brought to life with warmth and humour her tale of how she left home and despite the possible dodgy trap she may have been prey to in her first shoot managed to escape the pitfalls and eventually meet with a fairytale ending and even now shows that glamour is not beyond her in her fifties. The lighting was well used and projections of seventies images and films enhanced the aptmosphere of the show.
Well worth a watch.

Last updated Thursday 10 Sep 2009

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Colder Than Here - Theatre Review
Went to this play at the Coutyard Theatre, Shoreditch. I'm going to give it a rating of 3 stars (out of 5) as I'm just back from the Edinburgh fringe and thats how they rate things up there. It was an interesting play about a woman preparing for her own death, right down to painting her own disposable coffin. The central theme being her trying to reconcile the father and two daughters into a workable family unit once they've lost her as the lynch pin after her inevitable death from cancer. Some of the most amusing scenes in it which I'm sure many of the audience related to were the father/husband's frustations at the gas companies incopetence in repairing the central heating boiler. The family cat having left home also provided some pivotal moments. All four actors performed well, the father in my mind being the most believable. Not as many comedy moments as might have been hoped for, but enough. I would not have chosen to bill it as a comedy. Performed as theatre in the round with the set split to represent burial grounds/the living room, which worked fairly well although I notice some audience did not have a view of a powerpoint projection that was part of the plot.

Last updated Wednesday 09 Sep 2009

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Fringe productions of The Duchess of Malfi are a bit like London buses - none for ages then three come along together. This is the third production I’m aware of this year, which somewhat undermines the stated aim of “Have Your Cake Theatre Company” to shed fresh light on underperformed Renaissance and classical plays. To be fair, the brief they have set is slightly larger since they are also setting out to rewrite these plays. Consequently, this Duchess is a radical departure from anything we’ve seen recently.
Whether or not it’s a worthwhile project, is another question. But let me begin by saying that my worst fears were never realised, entirely due to Bryony Markwick’s intelligent reworking of Webster’s plot to evoke recent historical memories. Locating the drama in 1981 inevitably calls to mind the fate of Princess Diana (she married Prince Charles that year) and, Katherine Gwen Pons’ tall, elegant yet vulnerable Duchess is deliberately dressed and styled for us to make the connection. Of course, their stories are very different, but thematically there are sufficient parallels: the pressures exerted by an aristocratic cabal to control the sexuality and public face of an attractive and independent-minded young female family member; the ongoing suspicion of a murderous conspiracy surrounding her violent death. Only the role of the media does not feature in the original, as in this version.
Of course there are losses: the figure of Webster’s Machiavellian Cardinal for one, replaced only by a sinister unseen father figure (I kept visualising Prince Philip!) whom the Duchess’s manic twin, Ferdinand phones occasionally to report on her. With his absence, the deranged and incest-orientated Ferdinand (Tim MacAvoy), seems to emerge as sole engine of the Duchess’s downfall.
In fact, Webster’s principal target with this play was what he would have called “degree” and what we now call “class”. This is brought out, not only in the Duchess’s choice to marry “beneath her”, but in the spy-employee, Bosola’s volte-face and his ultimate destruction of his masters. Bosola is Webster’s most complex and fascinating creation, not least because, despite a conflicted moral compass, while fully involved in the action he maintains an ongoing dialogue with audience. This is the role (and it’s the longest part in the play) that usually suffers most through editing through the loss of direct audience address. His is the role by which the meaning of the Duchess’s story is demonstrated to the audience. Bryony Markwick’s script showed clear understanding of this, when after his betrayal of the Duchess, Alan Mirren’s powerful Bosola turned to the audience and growled “Don’t look at me like that!”
The play received intelligent pacy direction (135 minutes with no interval) from Imogen Russell Williams and was effectively presented by an excellent company of five principals, with sterling and well-choreographed support from Rosalind Parker and David Spence who, as two silent servants, superbly set the tone of a stifling court atmosphere.
Although I remain uncertain of the target audience for this adaptation, in fairness, I welcome the originality and panache of its execution.

John Buckingham

Last updated Monday 07 Sep 2009

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Tickets are now on sale for the 2009 London Song Festival. This year's Festival is slimmed down to just two concerts, but they both promise to be absolutely fantastic; two amazing singers performing some of the most beautiful music ever written.
Wednesday November 11th 7.30pm
Louise Winter - mezzo-soprano
Nigel Foster - piano
Schumann Frauenliebe und Leben, Mahler Ruckert Lieder, and songs by Clara Schumann, Louis Spohr, Brahms, Haydn and Schubert.

Wednesday November 18th 7.30pm
Jeremy Huw Williams - baritone
Nigel Foster - piano
Mahler Lieder eines Fahrenden Gesellen, and songs by Schubert, Haydn, Spohr, Alma Mahler, and Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn.

Both concerts are at St George Hanover Square, London W1. Tickets are £15 (£10 concessions) which includes free wine, and there is a discount if you book for both concerts.

Tickets can be purchased at www.quaytickets.com or by phone on 0843 208 0500.
AUDIENCECLUB MEMBERS PAY JUST £10 SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE CONCERT

Last updated Wednesday 02 Sep 2009

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Most people will know the National Theatre from its concrete exterior, if not from the diverse range of plays performed all year round. For those who have never ventured in, the Backstage Tour is a great way to see the National's three theatres - the Olivier, the Lyttelton and the Cottesloe - have a snoop behind the scenes and see the workshops where many of the sets and props are made. For those already familiar with the theatre, the tour offers exciting insights into backstage areas of the NT not usually seen by members of the public.

The idea of a National Theatre Company is far from new, dating from 1848. After much deliberation and many false dawns (the theatre could have been built in South Kensington, Bloomsbury or Victoria), since 1963, it's been in SE1, first at the Old Vic and then in Denys Lasdun's 'new' building on the South Bank, which was officially opened by the Queen in October 1976.
On the tour, visitors are given a sense of the work taking place, whether they're observing a fight call, a vocal warm up, or discovering a freshly painted set, just about to be wheeled on to the stage or magically transported to the Olivier via the unique drum revolve stage-centre of the 1,160 seat auditorium. Visitors before a performance might just catch a glimpse of a famous actor heading along the dressing room corridor before seeing one of the wonderful War Horse puppets.
The tour lasts an hour and a quarter and takes visitors from the top of the Olivier, where the history of the National is brought to life by experienced and enthusiastic tour guides, to the scene dock, the very back of the building where raw materials are brought in and whole sets are taken out to go on tour.
If you have any theatre-mad friends or family members it's a great idea to go as a group; there will be a lot to chat about afterwards in one of the theatre bars, or outside on the terraces where you can enjoy Watch This Space, the free festival of outdoor performance, during the summer months.

There are some steps on the route, but with a bit of notice the accommodating tour guides will reroute anyone requiring flat access. Tours run up to six times a day from Monday to Friday, twice on Saturday and once on Sunday.

Backstage Tours usually cost £5.90 per person (£4.50 concessions), but we have an offer for SE1 readers who can go for £1 per person in August and September. Quote 'SE1 offer' for your special offer ticket.

Last updated Wednesday 02 Sep 2009

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Bring a short story or excerpt to work on, whether anecdote, original work or published text. Work alone or with a partner.

Multi - award winning actor, writer, director and producer Guy Masterson; renowned for running the most awarded company in Fringe history, and an illustrious career of acclaimed solo productions including Under Milk Wood, specialises in new writing and adaptations.

The group will explore how to bring a story to life from text to the stage. Examining structure, characterisation, mime and engaging an audience.

Tuesday 22 September, 6 and 27 October 7- 9pm

£60 for all 3 sessions. Ages 18+

Guy Masterson masterclasses are held at
Millfied Arts Centre, Edmonton, London.
See full information on the Theatres website
CLICKHERE.

TEL: 020 8807 6680 AND CLICKHERE.

A rare opportunity to learn from this expert, snap up this special offer!

Last updated Tuesday 21 Jul 2009

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Jeff Harnar's American Songbook in London is at the Pizza on the Park at Hyde Park corner.

From March through to July there are the most wonderful artistes from Broadway guesting over here to enjoy. For the first 6 weeks you'll also be thrilled to discover the 1959 Broadway Songbook on Sundays and Mondays.

For more information on the American Song Book in London Shows CLICKHERE.

Last updated Monday 29 Jun 2009

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The Monster under the Bed
6 June – 25 July 2009 (Age Guideline 6+)
Imagine swapping places with a monster for the day....

It’s a common childhood fear - worrying that there’s a monster under the bed. But in Polka’s hilarious summer blockbuster you’ll realise that monsters aren’t actually that scary after all. And if you’re really nice to them, they’ll even go to school for you!

The Monster under the Bed tells the story of Ben. He’s got a big problem – his best friend Vince has stolen his precious binoculars and his Dad is far, far away. Then there’s Celine, the girl in Ben’s class who won’t leave him alone....she wants to get married and have babies and everything! So one morning the monster goes to school instead, promising Ben he’ll get those binoculars back for him. But what mayhem is in store for his unsuspecting class mates?!

This funny and exciting new play is written especially for Polka by Kevin Dyer. Polka Theatre are delighted to offer The Audience Club Members the opportunity to come along to see the show with a special offer of 2-4-1 tickets. Simply buy one ticket and get a second for FREE!
Check their website www.polkatheatre.com for dates of show and then call the Polka Box Office on 020 8543 4888 and quote “Monster Audience Club Offer”.

This offer is subject to availability and limited to 5 free tickets per booking. Please note that the show is suitable for those aged 6+

Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB Box Office 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com
Nearest Tube: Wimbledon or South Wimbledon

Last updated Tuesday 02 Jun 2009

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Members' Reviews

The biggest decision isn’t whether to go, but what to see!! So many shows, so little time, how can you choose??? The Audience Club, your friends of the fringe and so much more.

Show News is the The Audience Club page where we feature news and reviews about productions across London. Keep an eye on the Theatre Ladder to see if they appear there too! We will also showcase new venues, because we believe in and support theatre in all its forms throughout London. Do contact us if you know of venues you think we should include here. Let us have your reviews too - especially if you don’t agree with the official reviews! Click here to send us an email.

I was very much looking forward to seeing once again this rarely performed 'problem' play, which is one of my favourites. I have passed The Old Blue Last scores of times taking people on guided walks, but never ventured inside. It is full of characater, spit and sawdust - a real untouched east end pub. The theatre management were very welcoming and we soon found ourselves in a shabby upstairs room; tiny very high stage one end and curving bar at another. Such an uninspiring venue would put lesser mortals off. Just how can you dress an area like this? Wise directors, like Darrie Gardner, do not try, relying on the atmosphere and the audience's 'imaginary forces' to evoke the grandeur and the poverty of C16 Vienna. It goes to show that splendid theatres and huge sets are not always necessary and you can put on a play anywhere if the acting is good enough.

Many of the characters, particularly the comic ones, were so much more mature, and whether or not the author meant them to be, they seemed right to be so. Seeing such youthful performers in these roles took some getting used to but on the whole they did very well and the audience of students on Thursday afternoon enjoyed themselves (is it a set book?)

There was certainly much to enjoy. I am always wary of modern dress Shakespeare, preferring the romantic Pre-Rapaelite look, but was surprised how well this tale of corruption and greed sits so well in our materialistic world. Stewart Bewley gave a new slant to Lucio, an ingratiating and oily City trader type - hugely enjoyable - as was Richard de Lisle's Pompey, with great audience raport, even though his accent seemed to veer a bit. Jennie Fox was a beautifully spoken, graceful though fiesty heroine and how great to find a Mariana, in Katie Andrew's finely judged performance, who looked so like her.
Matthew Wade was a smooth and evil Angelo and Stuart Sessions a beautifully spoken Duke. He seemed to be more at home with his Duke than his disguised friar and there were a few dropped lines, but that will improve as the run goes on.

On the whole it was a thoroughly satisfying experience and great to see Shakespeare back in Shoreditch, a few yards from his home in Worship Street and Burbage's first Theatre round the corner. I would be happy to see more of Lights of London in the future.


Sadie Frost's protrayal of 'Lesley' in this quirky and offbeat show is a very personal, funny, touching and sad journey of one woman's life as she progresses from teen to adult inextricably linked to the music and life of the ultimate of pop icons Madonna. We begin the journey with several of Madonna's signature theme-tunes 'Like A Prayer', 'Material Girl', 'Like A Virgin' and so on, to which Sadie recounts the teenage and young adult fumblings of an unsure Lesley and the boys/men in her life, with poignant accuracy. As we journey through adulthood, the joy about this play is its simplicity; there are no shocks, no cliffhangers, no whodunits, it is simple and effective in its art of telling a story without fuss and thoroughly engaging. There are moments where the dialogue and pacing of the script don't work, as well as the occasional clunky scene change, but this is a well-rounded and skilful performance and production that defintely has the charm and wit to engage and entertain. I'm sure that as the show develops over the next few weeks, more will be made of play and more risks should be taken by Sadie, difficult to do in such an intimate theatre where there is no escape from the audience, but that is the great joy about working in such an intimate space - the audience and performer cannot escape each other and this makes every moment all the more intense, all the more bitter-sweet and all the more discomforting and highly enjoyable.
Simon

So, last nights theatre outing was to La Cage Aux Folles. This was
my second viewing of this production but I wanted to see what Graham
Norton made of it.
Last time I saw it I was at the very front of the stalls on the
cabaret tables. Which are quite fun, as you get the suprise of a
close-up dance by one of the cagelles and some of the club banter is
directed at those tables. This time I was seated in the dress
circle. But as I say the reason I went was to see whether Graham
Norton could handle the part of Albin. I am not a big fan of Norton,
but the change of cast was a reason to go again and see a play which
I had enjoyed. I was afraid that Graham Norton's voice would not be
up to the part, and I was dissapointed with his singing - although
to be fair it did sound like he might have been struggling with a
cold or sore throat. Steven Pacey the replacement as George on the
other hand had an excellent voice. All the actors played their parts
well. The play has many strong songs, and great dance routines, both
those as part of the nightclub entertainment and those as part of
the ongoing plot. My friend Ann said that it was the best Can-Can
routine she had ever seen. I had to point out that an all male dance
troupe provides a facility of strength that woul not be available to
a female troupe. The show has love stories and deceit and excellent
humour in some of the lesser roles such as the maid Jacob and his
offhand attitude towards his employers and the results of the stage
managers ongoing relationship with the sadistic transvestite Hanna.
Ultimately La Cage is about what makes a family work. The messages
in this play are still as valid today as they were in the eighties.

Casanova
Went to see Casanova at The Kings Head, Islington. It was a musical and therefore a bit of a mixed bag. But then there are very few musicals where every song is going to be a hit. My favourites in this particular show were a solo by Cardinal Aqua Vita alluding to how you can get away with anything with tact, and a rather fun piece about a four in a bed romp. The show is quite fun and filled with innuendo as would be expected from what most know of Casanova's adventures. The story is narrated by Cassanova and takes time to build with the earlier reminiscences coming accross a little like independent sketches but the story building as characters re-occur. With ten people playing thirty characters there was a lot of doubling but a brave attempt was made to combat the confusion that this
may cause by employing accents - this was rather odd with various UK accents used to portray various parts of europe. Cassanova is the well-played story of an affable rogue and we left the theatre feeling happy enough.

WELL

A good performance from Sarah Miles as the mother, and an adequate performance from Natalie Casey as the playwright/daughter, though certainly more convincing in the moments of high emotion that are invevitable in any story that involves famiy relationships.

Worth going to if only to see the way the various scenes and settings and parts of this story weave themselves into a whole. Much of the interest in this story focuses on the daughters selection of what content should be included in her production and the mother's own ideas about what should be told - this itself causing conflict between the playwright and the cast of ever more difficult to please actors. Much of the play is monologues delivered directly to the audience in which we see where these conflicts arise. 3/5. Danny

We went to see Hit Me this afternoon and it was great - after a while
you really thought you were watching the man himself. We saw Ian
Dury and the Blockheads live at the Apollo or the Hammersmith Odeon
as it was called then back in the early 1980's so it was good to see
this tribute to him now. Ian Dury was thicker set than Adrian
Schiller but Schiller has really captured the feel of the man and in
particular sang just like him. The reformed minder was good too and
in some ways a more sympathetic role than Dury's.

Excellent casting, fantastic singing but because of the language not
for the faint hearted! Highly recommended.


We went to see Well last week having missed it at the Trafalgar
Studios last year. I unfortunately didn't enjoy it very much - I
found both the main characters rather irritating and think the
earlier venue would have worked better. On the other hand, we all
went to the Oval House Theatre tonight to see the four plays showing
under the title of the Unfortunate Love of the British Empire and
enjoyed ourselves immensely! There was a large cast of keen vibrant
actors who were well worth watching. The evening started slowly with
a fictional account of Elizabeth and Drake and then warmed up as it
reached the twentieth century. My fifteen year old daughter was
full of enthusiasm particularly for the two last plays and grabbed a
leaflet to take to her drama class at school - hoping to encourage
them to go! While there were some very funny lines I found others
almost unbearably poignant - particularly in the break-up of the
interracial marriage in 'Something Called Love'.

I never knew there were so many wonderful fringe theatres around
London - thank you for the introduction!

Regards,
Sarah

Well, we went to see HIT ME yesterday evening. I was pleased that we did. Though I remember a number of Ian Dury's hits, I was by no means what you would call a fan. My brother collected vinyl from the punk-rock genre so I was even familiar with Spasticus Autisticus. The songs were performed well enough to illicit the spirit of Ian Dury. But it was also interesting to hear anecdotes of the events leading to the songs origins, as well as details of Dury's some what shaky relationship with the Blockheads and the exploits of his minder Spider. Given how recently Adrian Schiller has joined the show he put in a sterling performance as Ian Dury and I am sure that given a few more shows his performance will come to match the excellence of Josh Darcy as Spider Rowe. A show that I would recommend to fans of Ian Dury and those who want to know more about the man behind the music.

Danny Worthington.
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RE: STudies for a Portrait - The White Bear Theatre
We thought the casting of the play is spot on, particularly Martin Bendel as the artist Julian, though it is a good ensemble piece. The writing is very good with a lot of humour, so the tragic situation becomes a pleasure to watch for the audience. Very recommendable indeed.


Black Sun’s production of The Duchess of Malfi at the White Bear Theatre Club till 22nd March

I enjoyed this generally successful production of Webster’s powerful tragedy. Unsurprisingly, the text has been edited (but so were the original performances in 1614 &, to my knowledge, only the RSC in Stratford in 1989 have done the whole thing uncut! ) but Black Sun’s cuts are intelligent and retain elements from some scenes which usually vanish in fringe versions, so that’s a bonus! The production is fluid and well-paced, so what is a fairly long evening passes pretty rapidly.
Because the play is essentially a tragedy of scandal, there is sometimes a temptation for modern directors to play up the tabloid angles – Duchess bonks Butler! The Cardinal & the Tart! etc. – but Jemma Gross thankfully resists these traps and deals efficiently with the more sensational (but fun) aspects such as amputated hands and poisoned Bibles. For once, the scene with the madmen is played with some understanding of its dramatic purpose rather than being just an opportunity to indulge in pre-Marat-Sade lunacy. The play is modern dress and, on the whole this works well, with the possible exception of the period daggers which suddenly proliferate under the suits in the final act.
The performances of the principals are all pretty good: there’s a feisty Duchess from Trudy Elizabeth Hodgson, and James Rose exudes a powerful menace as the malcontent spy, Bosola. The Machiavellian politician in Alex Tanner’s strong Cardinal is emphasised by putting him in a suit rather than vestments and, although David Fensom as the disturbed Ferdinand is somewhat understated, this is not really a fault in a part that can so easily be turned into a carpet-chewing shriek-fest! I especially liked Henry Doulton as the Duchess’s uptight - as well as upright - Steward, Antonio, reinforcing the view of this role as essentially a comic figure caught up in a tragedy beyond his comprehension. Supporting roles and ensemble playing by the other actors was excellent.

Black Sun have set themselves the laudable task of performing lesser known Elizabethan and Jacobean plays to a wider audience. The night I saw this show the small venue was full and the audience as enthusiastic as the big screen football fans in White Bear’s bar outside. I’m not sure there was much cross-over but, in the context of Black Sun’s aims, the juxtaposition of these two groups and the choice of venue seemed curiously appropriate.

John Buckingham



We would love to receive more reviews so get writing!

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For more up to date news on what's happening on the London Stage go to the Official London Theatre Guide

Last updated Tuesday 30 Dec 2008

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There is a new website in town, just launched and listing all kinds of fab events around London. Check it out and keep it in your favourites.

http://www.freelondonlistings.co.uk/

Last updated Tuesday 30 Dec 2008

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Our very first .biz website recommendation! dramaclasses.biz is a unique site designed to put children and students in touch with their local drama school. It is an excellent drama resource site for children, parents, teachers and older students. Children’s drama classes have always been very popular but now, more than ever, drama is recognised as an essential tool to build children’s confidence. If you’re looking for children’s drama school or a drama school for older students you just type in your post code or county and check out your local drama school. There are many after school activities for children and drama is now one of the most popular. Children’s drama schools, full and part time, are available throughout the UK and it is a good idea to view several different drama schools before making your choice.

Last updated Tuesday 30 Dec 2008

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The newly refurbished space now known as the Leicester Square Theatre - previously the Venue,is hosting a comedy festival, The Big Laugh till early November featuring luminaries such as: Roseanne Barr; Scott Capurro; Russell Howard and the outrageous Tina C. Later in the season Blowing Whistles returns starring Paul Keating in this sexy hit comedy about being gay! Watch this space!

The most unlikely juxtaposition occurred in the press last week! "Fat Pig Kelly Brook" will make her West End debut in the hit show which transfers shortly from Trafalgar Studios to the Comedy Theatre. We have no idea about Ms Brook's thespian abilities but we do know that she sure ain't fat! We wish her all the best in the role!

Coming up on the fringe look out for: 1800 Acres, by David Myers at the Riverside Studios (16 Sep to 12 Oct 2008) followed by Lola: The Life of Lola Montez with live music from flamenco guitarist Ricardo Garcia (21 Oct to 2 Nov 2008; : Laughing in the Dark at the New End Theatre (14 Oct to 2 Nov 2008); at the Blue Elephant Theatre, First Class (7 to 25 Oct 2008) followed by Toy Boy/Living With... a double bill (11 to 29 Nov 2008); at the King Head's Theatre,That Moment by Dougie Blaxland (lunchtimes 23 Sep to 12 Oct 2008; at Upstairs at the Gatehouse, A Tale of Two Cities, a musical adaptation written by Steven David Horwich and David Soames with music by David Pomeranz (27 Sep to 2 Nov 2008); at the Old Red Theatre, Back of the Throat, by Yussef El Guindi (23 Sep to 11 Oct 2008). And finally The Oval House Theatre's autumn season: Yours Abundantly, from Zimbabwe by Gillian Plowman (30 Sep to 18 Oct 2008); Catalysta by Allister Bain (21 Oct to 8 Nov 2008); Muhammad Ali and Me by Mojisola Adebayo and the Ali Collective (11 to 29 Nov 2008); Yard Gal by Rebecca Prichard (28 Oct to 15 Nov 2008); Vakomana Vaviri ve Zimbabwe (Two Gentlemen of Verona)(18 Nov to 13 Dec 2008).

We're looking forward to autumn already!

Last updated Friday 05 Sep 2008

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Featured Venues
From now on we won’t just be changing the Show News completely every few weeks but adding new news to the front end so that an archive builds up over time. Here are is the best of Featured Venues from the last few months.

The Space on the Isle of Dogs. Housed in a 19th century converted church with stained glass windows, a Steinway grand piano and flexible seating, this multi-arts centre has a “unique and atmospheric environment”. Its programme is an eclectic mixture of theatre, music, comedy and dance.

Southwark Playhouse Theatre Company was founded in 1993 by Juliet Alderdice, Tom Wilson & Mehmet Ergen. They leased a disused workshop turning it into a flexible theatre space.The education programme they developed back then continues to thrive and to attract substantial funding each year. Over the past fifteen years the theatre has established itself as one of London's leading studio theatres and a couple of years ago moved to its present base under two large railway arches off Tooley Street near London Bridge. The future looks bright for this one of south London's theatrical gems as Southwark Playhouse has been chosen for inclusion in a new development at the Elephant & Castle. The theatre will move to a brand new premises with a 200 seat auditorium together with a dedicated education and community space.

Rosemary Branch is an independent, privately-owned, art-friendly freehouse situated across the road from the Grand Union Canal on the borders of Hackney, Islington and Shoreditch. Originally a music hall where Charlie Chaplin is rumoured to have played and where Marie Lloyd certainly did, this local venue seats c 65 people above a popular pub. There is an eclectic selection of cushions on the chair seats to make your visit a bit more comfortable. The building has been on this site since 1783 and the name comes from the sprig of rosemary worn in the hats of The Levellers, a radical left wing group of the 1640's who held meetings at a nearby tavern. In the summer, the theatre is often used as a tryout space by comedians working on productions for Edinburgh.

We have been fortunate indeed in being able to attend a number of wonderful concerts at the Cadogan Hall in Sloane Square. This is the home of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Brodsky Quartet ans one of the newest concert halls in London. Originally built in 1907 as the First Church of Christ Scientist it was re-opened as a concert hall in 2004. The Cadogan is a work of art in its own right - designed by Robert Fellowes Chisholm, who was the British Government’s consultant architect in India. Chisholm filled the hall with a dramatic mixture of Byzantine, Romanesque and Indo-Saracenic elements. In addition, a Danish nobleman, Baron von Rosenkrantz, who was a designer for Tiffany in New York, devised stained glass throughout the building drawn from variations on a Celtic knot theme.

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