David Richards

The Burial is a play which takes a rather serious and depressing subject matter and finds the comical aspects of its consequences. StoneCrabs Theatre Company's strong cast have the audience laughing out loud, as well as empathising with cultural and social differences. At the Albany, Deptford.

When a neurological disorder stops someone from telling their spouse of thirty years that they love them; when such forms of dementia take over, what happens to the person left behind? With some moments of excellence, but also some (perhaps suitably) foggier and occasionally too laboured ideas, these are the questions that Alexander Moschos's play explores at the Brockley Jack Studio Theatre.

Old Goat Song really has the potential to be quite moving, but, although musicals can often provide a brilliant medium in which to accentuate emotion, in this particular instance, the music seems to stifle the production's sentiment. At the Lion and Unicorn Theatre.

"Life's not all cupcakes and carousels," it’s true, but it’s not all doom and gloom either! Kitchen sink theatre is just fine, but there are too many fundamental issues here that stifle its full potential. At the Lion and Unicorn Theatre.

The Last Session tells the story of a man, a musician and composer, who has been struggling with AIDS for what he now feels is too long. Some of Steve Schalchin’s songs are beautiful, and The Last Session’s subject matter certainly has an impact on its audience. There are a few snags though. At Tristan Bates Theatre.

Let's be honest, no one is averse to a good old moan every now and then, whether that be about the weather, taxes, the government, or the price of bread (maybe that's just me). Actors, despite their cheery dispositions on stage and screen, are no strangers to complaining either - and David Richards uses the opportunity to unload. Ever had a drink with an actor? Then you'll have heard some of these...

"Memories are funny things. They're never in order ya know." The order of scenes in this play reflects this direct quote in an, initially, almost confusing manner, but it is clearly intended to do so. This very well put together piece of theatre proves accessible, and really quite moving. At the Camden Fringe.

The talented Jo Romero and her equally gifted cast give truly excellent performances in this work in progress. Scenes of a Sensual Nature is excellently written, and receives validating audience responses. Rarely, not never, but rarely does it happen that writers and directors who perform in their own work prove successful. On this occasion however, the results are exceptional. At the Camden Fringe.

Miranda Kane, also known as Melody, spent seven years as an escort, and is using this piece as a medium to bravely and honestly tell her stories and truths, highlighting several misconceptions about the business. This is not, however, a depressing or harrowing experience. Kane informs and educates us about the industry, focusing on the positive side. At the Camden People's Theatre.

Douglas Moore’s concept is extremely thoughtful and intriguing. The subject matter of this opera certainly makes for quite an eccentric piece of theatre, but it definitely has the capacity to be very amusing. This four strong cast are undoubtedly highly skilled singers, but sadly, there are too many downfalls to this production to suggest that it is a true success. At the Camden Fringe.