London is famed for its theatre, in fact, the performing arts are so popular that they even got their own area named after them. Theatre Land is as grandiose as the name suggests, with its long-running hits, celebrity stage-craft and architecture that still looks good with six foot sparkling shoes and glaring lights thrown all over it. However, this blog is about looking a little deeper beneath the surface and so we delve into the belly of London’s underground theatre scene to highlight some of the city’s alternative venues.
Crypt of St Andrew
Beneath a church in Holborn lays a knight who was interred to its crypt for eternity. Since its excavation though it’s no longer just the rats and mice he has for entertainment, it’s the cream of London’s fringe theatre scene too. St Andrew’s is now host to one of the most atmospheric venues you could imagine. The cold breeze you’ll feel is probably some dead man blowing on you, the crumbling walls are the playthings of poltergesists and the many tunnels and cubbyholes are the perfect place to lose yourself… forever! A run of Macbeth recently came to an end, a production that managed to slot the Scottish play into the meandering venue with a smart, contemporary spin.
The White Bear
Who likes pubs? Everyone. Who likes theatre? Some people. Match made in heaven alert! The White Bear is Kennington Road’s most famous pile of bricks and that’s not just because it’s the only thing of any interest on the road. Currently showing ‘Count Oederland’ – a play described as American Psycho meets V for Vendetta – the White Bear is renowned for its innovative productions. Established in 1988, the back room theatre is a solid size for a fringe venue and has blooded stars such as Emily Watson and Tamzin Outhwaite. Actually maybe just make that Emily Watson (as much as I LOVED series one of Hotel Babylon).
The Old Red Lion
It’s one of the most famous of all the pub theatres in London, if not the most famous. Is this one a bit of a cheat because it’s an established classic? Perhaps. Constantly showcasing new work to Islington, it’s currently staging a run of The Firewatchers, a new play by Laura Stevens. I love watching fires - I watched one a couple of Saturdays ago and stood there so long my cheeks began to burn – so I’ll definitely be seeing this. Y’ouch.
Railroad
Hey all neu-theatre scenesters, there’s a new place in town so consider yourself warned! It goes by the name, Railroad Cafe and word on the street is, it’s rather good. Alternative underground music space, spoken word basement and poetry parlour; you can have a great meal upstairs and afterwards head below to get your mind blown by all that creativity on the loose. It’s a packed house but it’s worth it to be entertained and enlightened by new local projects. Not strictly theatre but who cares?
The Britannia
This Victoria Park pub has just got even better with the addition of the New Britannia Theatre Group. Attempting to create a centre for East London’s fringe scene, the group are looking to devise a program of dramatic works, music and cabaret to capture all. It’s promise of performing musical theatre is particularly intriguing.
