This week, West End Editor Josephine Balfour-Oatts talks all things London with Samuel Sims, mapping his ties with the stage and screen.
Samuel Sims is currently the Managing Director of A Younger Theatre, an online publication dedicated to championing emerging writers. Now in its tenth year, the company has made great strides in the world of arts journalism, with significant creative endeavours planned for the New Year. His is not a face to forget.
Do you have a favourite theatre in the West End? If so, why?
I suppose I can’t say the Royal Court because it’s not in the West End, right? Mostly from an aesthetics standpoint, The London Coliseum is just wonderful. It’s such a stunning building and I feel so overwhelmed whenever I step foot in there. Also, all of Cameron Mackintosh’s theatres are glorious - especially the Noel Coward and Novello (where I worked for many years). They have all these little nooks and crannies and are finished to perfection. Also, they remind me of my Grandpa’s study.
Which are your preferred spots for a pre-show meal?
Boring I know, but I like Pizza Express because I can get 2 main courses for £10 and their vegan menu isn’t crap. The one near the National is my regular haunt as it’s pretty spacious and the staff are pleasant. Plus, the toilets are nice, and I really appreciate a good toilet.
Where is your post-show drinks haunt?
Usually wherever there’s alcohol. If I’m feeling less desperate, then the National’s Understudy or the Young Vic (if I’m on the Southbank side), or maybe Gordon’s wine bar if I’m on the North. They do lovely Port and Sherry in there.
Which of Theatreland’s upcoming/ current productions are you most looking forward to?
Again, I probably can’t use the Royal Court can I? I’m going to anyway. I’m excited to see Scenes with Girls there (hopefully) in January. The Court’s productions are always just so, so special and I feel excited and empowered and inspired whenever I go. Using the Finborough might also be cheating but I’m looking forward to seeing Scrounger there in January, which is a no-holds-barred look at Britain’s treatment of people with disabilities. We need more shows like this. Dear Evan Hansen is obviously a must-see and I really want to see a musical that’s been in town for a while, like Tina or Waitress or Come From Away. Finally, my friend should be directing a play at the Hope from April next year and it sounds AMAZING. Watch this space.
Top show to see right now?
Fairview, Fairview, Fairview. It’s such an important watch and I really don’t get how it’s divided opinion. What’s to be divided about? Just watch, listen, learn, feel empowered, feel hopeful.
Expenses aside, what would be your ideal day out in London?
I’m obsessed with film so I’d go to the cinema, maybe go somewhere like the Tate Britain or V&A (as long as it’s not the school holidays) and then walk around the City which is just wonderful during weekends because there’s nobody there. The day would have to end with a nice bottle of red wine. What’s everybody else having?
In your opinion, what is London’s best-kept secret?
It’s not secretive in the slightest, but unless you’re in the area or a bit artsy, the Barbican cinema is kind of low-key. It’s got a nice vibe and people have respect for others and don’t use their phones during the films. Again, walking around The City at the weekend – perhaps not for tourists – but for Londoners is a nice getaway from the usual hustle and bustle. That’s more of a tip than secret.
On your days off, where are you most likely to be found?
Probably at the cinema or the London Library - where I am a member - during the day and then drinks with friends or a show in the evening.
What is your fondest memory of the London theatre scene?
Probably working Front of House and bar in theatres and making some of the most special friends in the world.
Where in London are you most happy?
I feel happy and relaxed at the London Library. It’s so quiet, so steeped in history and you really do feel like you’ve stepped out of the real world, with all its stress. Going to the Odeon in Covent Garden when it’s completely dead is pretty nice too.
What’s next on your agenda?
I’ve just taken over as Director of the online theatre publication, A Younger Theatre from Jake Orr and have lots of exciting plans and ideas. Right now, I’m particularly obsessed with finding ways to bring in more money to pay the very hardworking editorial team and writers. As well, I am expanding the brand, bringing in more people who feel marginalised and need a platform to use their amazing voices, with particular emphasis on people of colour and with learning disabilities. It’s hard work managing a company but I’m really excited for what the future holds.
Step into the wizarding world with a magical day-trip around central London. Experience the city as seen by Harry, Ron and Hermione, before concluding your extraordinary travels with a performance of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at The Palace Theatre.