The OffWest End Awards (or Offies) celebrate exceptional work in London’s smaller venues, and has done for many years now. This fully volunteer-run organisation consists of theatre makers and critics who love theatre, and want to help celebrate and showcase this work. Work that is often small, new, experimental — or all those things at once.
I joined the team in late 2023, as an assessor. I’ve found it to be a really exciting way to see shows that I might not otherwise be aware of, learn about venues, and keep current on the context of contemporary performance in one of the busiest theatre communities in the English Speaking world. Since the start of 2024, I’ve been co-lead of the IDEA category, specifically focussed on innovative and experimental theatre, the work that pushes boundaries of form and content. I’m honoured to spend many of my evenings assessing innovation in theatres across London, and celebrating creators that are continually extending our understanding of what makes great performance.
Importantly, it has been a way for me to continue to contribute to the conversation about contemporary theatre-making, even when not directing or writing myself. I’ve been fortunate to get to take in many brilliant and boundary-pushing pieces of performance, which inspire my own practice.
We are always looking for news about productions in the community, and welcome interested parties to become assessors and help celebrate new work in London.
Do you have a show that you want to promote, and potentially be considered for an Offie?
Producers can submit details on their show here.
Are you a theatremaker or critic who wants to contribute on a voluntary basis as an assessor?
Fill in the application form here to be considered to join our exciting team