End of year review: My 5 favourite fringe plays of 2019
27/12/2019
It's the end of year theatre review time and thought I'd kick off with my favourite fringe plays of 2019.
Some of these may well end up on my final top 10 list but this is my way of cheating highlighting some more great theatre.
In no particular order (links are to my original reviews):
David Thame's sexy spy thriller is elevated by emotional depth. It was just as much a play about loneliness and connection as it was about a hitman and his target.
Can't wait to see what he writes next.
2. Seven Methods For Killing Kylie Jenner, Royal Court upstairs
This made a lot of what is on stage in London look stodgy and staid. A fresh and achingly contemporary play that cleverly and boldly tackled social media and what it reveals about modern society.
3. My White Best Friend, Bunker Theatre
It's been a year of important theatre which unashamedly and provocatively addresses racism and prejudice.
Uncomfortable viewing, as it should be, but more than that it was cleverly put together and brilliantly performed.
4. Lipstick: A Fairytale of Iran, Omnibus Theatre
A play which mixed the colourful, camp and different genres of storytelling with harsh realities of life in Iran. It was clever, powerful and entertaining and I'm sure it will be back on stage.
5. Nor Woman Neither, Tristan Bates
A poignant and sharp comedy about trying to turn childhood dreams into a reality. It had shades of Fleabag in its portrayal of modern women and I hope it gets a longer run somewhere.
Have you got a favourite fringe play of 2019? Would love to know what I missed, leave your thoughts in the comments.
Coming soon...least favourite plays of 2019 and my 10 favourite plays overall.
You might also like to read:
10 plays from the past 10 years that stand out (this was a tough one to compile).
Review: A Kind of People, Royal Court - funny, tough and revealing (on until 18 January).