This week, West End Editor Josephine Balfour-Oatts takes a turn about London with Jasmine Andrews - a pas de deux involving theatre, dance, and fresh Italian cuisine.
Jasmine Andrews is an up-and-coming choreographer and dance teacher. Also the Artistic Director of Sketch Dance Company - founded in 2013 - the collective explores that threshold between dance and theatre. Sketch's lastest work To Have & To Hold has just made its premiere at The Place as part of its Resolution 2020 programme, with plans to tour across the UK.
Do you have a favourite theatre in the West End? If so, why?
Sadlers Wells is my favourite dance-theatre house. The stage size is incredible for productions and generally most seats have good view! The capacity for lighting and set designs is also brilliant. I always enjoy watching shows there.
Which are your preferred spots for a pre-show meal?
Two of my favourite chain restaurants are Vapiano and Wagamama. With Vapiano, the Italian cuisine is prepared freshly in front of you in a canteen style. The decor of their restaurants are natural and pretty too. Also, they operate a card system whereby they add items onto your bill. This ensures a minimal wait-time and/or queing, which is really handy! With Wagamama, the Asian cuisine is eclectic and offers different healthy and filling options. The service is good and the seating is nice and always open plan as well.
Where is your post-show drinks haunt?
Sophie’s in SoHo has always been my go-to. It’s elegant, vast and serves an array of nice cocktails. Sometimes they even open their exclusive Jazz bar downstairs with live music and a dark, chilled atmosphere.
Which of Theatreland’s upcoming/ current productions are you most looking forward to?
Message In A Bottle by ZooNation UK Dance Company on at the Peacock Theatre.
Top show to see right now?
Waitress at The Alelphi Theatre.
Expenses aside, what would be your ideal day out in London?
Afternoon Tea at The Ritz, Crazy Golf and a visit to the theatre (with drinks).
In your opinion, what is London’s best-kept secret?
The hidden cafes and restaurants in the depths of Covent Garden and Carnaby Street. These areas are definitely worth exploring!
On your days off, where are you most likely to be found?
In the dance studio or at my MacBook.
What is your fondest memory of the London theatre scene?
Working as part of the bar team for Les Miserables at the Sondheim Theatre for one year. I met the most amazing people and made friends for life.
Where in London are you most happy?
Out in nature, surrounded by trees, leaves and the sun.
What’s next on your agenda?
To take my most current dance theatre work ‘To Have & to Hold’ with Sketch Dance Company on tour to both Brighton and Edinburgh after our London debut.
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