Autumn is officially upon us with its confusing whiffs of pumpkin spice lattes and the last remnants of sunscreen we’ve whipped out to catch the final summer rays. In these mixed times, it can be difficult to figure out what kind of entertainment to go for. It is with the interest of lost Londoners in mind that I have compiled a list of five shows in London to attend in the next few weeks, just in time to catch both the Halloween frenzy and some challenging, comforting, entrancing pieces of theatre.
‘French Toast’ at Riverside Studios (until 26 October )
The uproarious adaptation of Jean Poiret’s (author of “La Cage aux folles”) cabaret comedy has been hailed as a hit since its opening at the beginning of the month. The story of Jacqueline, French theatre diva longing to take Britain (or more specifically, Basingstoke) by storm clashes with the grand visions of British director Simon amid their troubling history’s resurfacing.
If you’re in the mood for some good old French/British rivalry breaking into songs between two well turned quips, this London show is for you.
When: Every day at 7:45 p.m. until 26 October
Where: Riverside Studios, 101 Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, London, W6 9BN
Tickets: From 25 pounds and you can get yours here.
Age: 10-plus
‘Valchera’s’ at the Cockpit Theatre (30 Oct. thru 2 Nov. )
Commissioned by the Unione Ticinese to celebrate its 150th anniversary, this debuting play explores the transversal themes of emigration, identity, friendship and female empowerment. Set in the early 1900s in the Swiss- Italian Valchera’s restaurant which once stood by Richmond Station, the play sheds light on the very current issue of identity quest within stories of migration and reconstructions. Embark on this female-led journey on one of their six performances.
When: Wednesday 30 October to Saturday 2 October at 1:30 p.m. /7:30 p.m. or 8
p.m.
Where: The Cockpit, Gateforth Street, London NW8 8EH
Tickets: From 12.50 pound and you can get yours here.
Age: 12-plus
‘Chaotic Cabaret’: Halloween edition at Riverside Studios (31 October)
The monthly meet up of so-called “risqué revelry” is back for its Halloween edition, the first anniversary of the triumphant West London cabaret. Expect flamboyant burlesque acts, comedy, clowning and cabaret singing. Some games and surprises should also pave the way to a glorious evening. If Halloween is your kind of night, why not dress up and try to win the costume competition?
When: Thursday 31 October at 7 p.m.
Where: Riverside Studios, 101 Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, London, W6
9BN
Tickets: 10 pounds, and you can get yours here.
Age:16-plus
‘The Food Bank Show’ at Camden People’s Theatre (31 Oct. 3 thru 2 Nov. )
Known for their enlightening political shows, Carmen Collective is back with a new piece of documentary theatre. After over a year of research, they have compiled a story of food poverty in the United Kingdom, showcasing the harrowing reality of the issue. Theatre is for change and Carmen Collective’s perspective is always aimed at conversation which will no doubt leave audiences with a radical need for action. Carmen Collective are also collecting donations on behalf of the Euston Foodbank from 21 October to 2 November, check out their website for more information.
When: From Thursday, 31 October to Saturday, 2 November at 9 p.m.
Where: Camden People’s Theatre, 58-60 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 2PY
Tickets: From 8 pounds and you can get yours here.
‘This Porno Does Not Pass the Bechdel Test’ at Croydonites Festival (3 November)
Following a 4-star run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this summer, the “funny and brilliant” dark comedy is back in London at the inaugural Croydonites Festival. Sienna’s won an online competition and gets to spend the night of her dreams with semi-famous porn star Lance Hardwood. The countdown to the livestream has begun and Sienna is starting to have doubts about the whole thing. Join this ecstatic piece of new writing and kill the Sunday blues.
When: At 1 p.m. on Sunday, 3 November
Where: The Croydonites Festival of New theatre, Studio 55 Centrale Shopping Center, Croydon, London
Tickets: From 8 pounds and you can get yours here.
Age 16-plus
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Zoé Manset
Zoe Manset is a French actress, writer and producer based in London, UK. After growing up in the Fragrant Harbour otherwise known as Hong Kong, Zoe moved to London in 2018 to pursue a BA in Art History at the Courtauld Institute of Arts. Missing the stage too much, she then completed a two year MFA in drama school and is now living the freelance actor life at full speed. Zoe is a fashion history lover, a great pub amateur, a dancer and a big foodie!
