R J.
Yelp
A lovely Fringe theatre with a deservedly good reputation, this west London wonder recently moved to a fantastic new venue just opposite Shepherds Bush Market tube station. The small studio has a low stage and flexible seating which allow for a variety of set-ups (in the round, promenade, thrust etc). The basic padded benches mean that if it's a sell-out, you're going to get pretty cosy with your neighbours.
Like any good fringe location, they specialise in new writing or new adaptations, but I'm under the impression that they're pretty spot-on with their offerings and indeed the two plays I've seen here so far have both been excellent.
What marks it out is the juxtaposition of the contemporary studio with the old architecture of the foyer. It actually used to be a library, which is evident in the building's structure, and they've been incredibly sympathetic in the renovation. My sources tell me that part of the deal was that it had to retain elements of its former life, and therefore the bar actually doubles up as a script library. I'm a sucker for the written word, so I was ferreting through the titles before we'd even sat down for a drink.
In fact funnily enough, it's the bar which brings this place up from a good theatre to a great place to visit. As a drama graduate (you knew that staging geekery had to come from somewhere), I know that a great theatrical experience isn't just about the play itself, but the atmosphere, build-up, and opportunity to unwind and discuss after the curtain-call. The Bush knows this too, and with a good selection of bevvies, including some imaginative non-alcoholic ones, at average (rather than theatre) prices, and a really welcoming atmosphere, they encourage people to hang around. I'd even go so far as to pay the Bush a visit without intending to take in a play.
One point has to come off for the ticket prices. As a local I get 10% off, but even so it's still pretty extortionate. I know full well that the industry is struggling, and I appreciate that the Bush has plenty of affluent neighbours, but that doesn't really excuse £25 flat-rate ticket prices. Not all of us live in stuccoed Notting Hill townhouses. If I could afford to come here more, I would, but as it is I'll probably have to stick it out in the foyer with an elderflower cordial and The Complete Works of Samuel Beckett.