This week, West End Editor Josephine Balfour-Oatts goes on an adventure with Jake Orr, treading his fondest memories of London, and his excitement for its upcoming artistic events.
Jake Orr is the founder of A Younger Theatre. Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, the online magazine has become a key player in both the London and Regional theatre scenes. Recently, he became the first-ever producer for The Nottingham Playhouse, after success at Theatre 503 and with his freelance production company, Jake Orr Productions.
Do you have a favourite theatre in the West End? If so, why?
My first thought was the Duke of York’s theatre. It’s one of the most intimate of West End theatres for audience/performer relationship. The auditorium almost hugs the stage and when you have theatres with thousands of seats, it’s always nice to come back to intimacy of player and spectator.
Which are your preferred spots for a pre-show meal?
Itsu, Charing Cross Road. I’m normally dashing from work so being able to grab something quick is often essential.
For more sit down meals I mourn the loss of The Stockpot. It used to be a regular for friends and I to grab a dinner that felt more like being served by our extended family than the anonymous chains, and it was brilliantly cheap.
Where is your post-show drinks haunt?
As I’m sober I normally aim for the closest place that will still serve me a cup of tea. If it’s going to be a late one, I’ll normally gravitate to one of the gay bars in Soho. The Yard perhaps during summer for its part-outdoor seating.
Which of Theatreland’s upcoming/ current productions are you most looking forward to?
I can’t wait for Hello, Dolly! to land into town. It’s had a special place in my heart since a teenager. For new writing in the West End I’m particularly looking forward to Baby Reindeer, especially with producing brilliance Francesca Moody teaming up with Sonia Friedman to bring it to town. More co-producing from them in the future please.
Top show to see right now?
Come From Away. It’s a show that demonstrates community can set aside its differences in order to look after each other. I couldn’t think of a more perfect musical for this decade.
Expenses aside, what would be your ideal day out in London?
Take in an art gallery, ideally one of the big hitters at the Tate or National Portrait Gallery. Cream tea at the National Gallery Cafe is a must, and often quiet if you opt for the 'at table' service. Getting lost for at least an hour among the bookshelves in Foyles, before emerging for dinner in Soho. Naturally a show, and afterwards an ice cream from Amorinos. Bliss.
In your opinion, what is London’s best-kept secret?
If I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret would it...? Seriously though; toilets that are easily accessible. The Chandos pub has a door at street level that leads straight up to their Male toilets, which has saved me many a time without the guilt of needing to bypass the bar stealthily.
On your days off, where are you most likely to be found?
I’ve recently relocated to Nottingham as I’m the Producer of Nottingham Playhouse, so I’ll normally be up in the Midlands discovering my new city. Although I still have a London base, so visiting all the places I’ve missed in my absence (and getting thoroughly amused that a new pop-up has sprung up since I last visited).
What is your fondest memory of the London theatre scene?
So many...! Watching Elevator Repair Service’s Gatz still brings me tingles - they performed the entire The Great Gatsby book over 6 hours. The first time seeing Hamilton during its previews and heading backstage. Oh and of course seeing Oliver! at the London Palladium as a child, my parents surprising me outside with a ticket and me nearly fainting.
Where in London are you most happy?
At Blackfriars Station looking down the Thames at nighttime.
What’s next on your agenda?
I imagine by the time this is published we would have announced our new season at Nottingham Playhouse. There are some brilliant shows in there and even a London transfer with a household name. That’s going to be keeping me busy this year.
2020 is proving to be an incredible year for theatre. Adding to the excitement is Robert Icke's The Doctor and Laura Wade's The Watsons, with both bound for the West End in a few months time. 