Have been thinking about my 'projects' for 2012. This is the list of things I'd like to do over the course of the year which I draw up in lieu of New Year's resolutions. (I believe in the positive, I want to do more of...rather than I should do less of...unless it is endangering my health and sanity.)
So as more theatres announce 2012 seasons it's got me thinking whether I should 'adopt' a small theatre, try and see everything they do for a year by way of comparison with say the likes of the Donmar, National or Royal Court where I see I lot of stuff already?
I've always loved the Finborough and don't get there anywhere near as many times as I would like. For Spring of 2012 it will be producing six rediscovered plays - a risk as often there is a very good reason why certain plays aren't performed very often.
Then there is the Lyric Hammersmith which likes to court controversy occasionally putting on those plays from the past which divided critics and audiences. The newly announced 2012 season includes a re-imagining of A Midsummer Nights Dream and a collaboration piece with TV writer du jour, Abi Morgan.
Also flying the flag for West London is the Bush Theatre, currently enjoying an extended and sold out run with The Kitchen Sink. Haven't been to the new theatre space yet so that could be an incentive.
But then we have the rest of London on offer too. I've always had a special regard for the Southwark Playhouse. Have seen some great stuff there, as well as the odd dud, and they are hosting the new Philip Ridley play next year which is already in my diary. It is also their final year under the arches at London Bridge before finding a temporary home while the station is redeveloped.
The Young Vic has featured quite a bit on this year's theatre trips and puts on some great stuff (and yes I am one of the two people who liked I Am The Wind)
I'm also fond of the Arcola in Hackney. Have already booked to see the revival of Ridley's Pitchfork Disney early next year. I like the mix of well known, obscure and slightly off the wall productions they choose.
And there are still theatres I've yet to visit but that's another project perhaps? So which theatre should I go for and try and see everything they produce in 2012?
Big Ben image by Defatto on Flickr
