Josh Maughan

review“How do people cope in the worst imaginable situation?” This is what writer, and lead actress, Abigail Hood sets out to examine in Spiral, now at the Jermyn Street Theatre after a run at the Park Theatre. It sounds like a compelling premise for a play.

One-man shows tackling queer experiences aren’t hard to come by. They’re, rightfully, being given platforms across the fringe scene. Home to a plethora of unique stories, the queer community is ripe for creative exploration. From coming out and hook-up culture to homophobia and sexual violence, there are complex narratives that provide rich bases for creatives.

It is not often that Fringe venues act as platforms for important narratives from the older generation. Based on tonight’s performance of After All These Years, I can only ask ‘Why not?’.  After winning the 2023 Outstanding Theatre Award at Brighton Fringe, After All These Years transfers to the Jermyn Street Theatre where I am sure it will enjoy continued success.

As an audience member, there is something truly empowering about leaving the theatre knowing you are more educated than you were upon arrival. With this, Orisun Productions’ PlayFight truly delivers. Following a shorter run at The Pleasance Theatre, PlayFight has transferred to the Seven Dial’s Playhouse for an undeniably deserved longer summer run.

With society bursting with an array of social issues to tackle, creative platforms hold great potential in providing complex and transformative commentary on such issues. Bones, a co-production between production company Refine and leading rugby mental health organisation – LooseHeadz – is a promising attempt at such vital commentary.