No Naughty Bits lacks the cerebral, irreverent silliness of the Pythons' own material. It deals in a different kind of humour, sometimes cleverly yet without real zest... more
In recent years the Hackney Empire’s Christmas pantomime has tended to be the pick of the crop, and this year’s jaunty, often joyous offering is no disappointment... more
As the irrepressible Clive Rowe prepares to grace Hackney Empire, Fiona Mountford meets the queen of London panto — and picks the 10 best shows on offer this season... more
Twenty-five young Londoners line up outside Maison Louis Vuitton but don't want to enter the store. Instead, it's their way in to the arts world... more
From posh panto to burlesque, London is full of festive entertainment. Here are a dozen shows that should entice children — and adults — into the theatre.... more
The magnificent Clive Rowe towers above in Mother Goose; singing, dancing, ad-libbing and making the oldest jokes in the panto book gleam afresh. ... more
Clive Rowe squeezes into the dame's dress at Hackney Empire, Elton John returns to the O2 and Angelika Kirchschlager hits the high notes in Hansel and Gretel.... more
After a reckless, shaky start, Edward Dick's production of Twelfth Night brings an impressive array of fun, surprises and unease to London's loveliest summer theatre venue.... more
It's hard to see anyone, not even Stephen Fry and his "posh panto" chums at the Old Vic, bettering Dick Whittington and His Cat at the Hackney Empire this festive season.... more
From some classic Charles Dickens to Stephen Fry's racy Old Vic production, Fiona Mountford rounds up this year's bumper crop of festive family shows.... more
Stephen Sondheim's Into the Woods is set in a Shrek-type fantasy world and gets a fine outing in this magical production at the Royal Opera House.... more
Caroline, Or Change features a versatile gospel, blues and rock score and reflects the turbulent spirit of America when the civil rights campaign led to violent protests.... more
The Mayor of Tower Hamlets defeated Labour to be elected. Livingstone not only backed him but some of Ken's key players are now at the heart of running the council. Stephen Robinson reports
Tonight:
5°c
