Libraries are full of stories.
But you have to – ugh – read them.
The alternative: Clapham’s Omnibus Theatre, set in a former library and bringing stories directly into your eyes and ears.
Locals campaigned to save the building from demolition for seven long years before the council allowed it to reopen as an arts centre. Now, it’s a thriving off-West End venue, which relies only on its box office takings (and some pocket money from the likes of Judi Dench and Michael Gambon) to stay afloat.
This could give them license to hike their prices – but as a committed, community-focussed theatre, they’re set on making performances accessible to all. That means ticket prices hover around the £13 mark, making it one of the cheapest ways to see a live show in London.
Those shows run the whole gamut of genres, from adaptations of old stories; to new writing; puppetry; comedy; live music and more. And each year, they host festivals of queer comedy, Spanish-speaking drama, and Edinburgh Fringe previews – meaning you can catch top comedians trying out new sets for the first time, without the 400 mile trip (tough for anyone who isn’t one of The Proclaimers).
Pre- and post-show, you can kick back in the Omnibus café/bar, where they serve brunch and freshly baked cakes by day, and seasonal cocktails and wine by night – occasionally accompanied by live music.
After all, nobody’s telling them to shh.
NOTE: You can find out what’s on at the Omnibus Theatre, and book tickets, right HERE.
Omnibus Theatre | 1 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 0QW
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