Reviews
I C A Gallery, SW1Y
Eko Eshun sort it out 
Max J. says:
The ICA is a mixed art space covering three main gallery spaces, small theatre/live performance area, two cinema screens and a great little bar/restaurant.
While the bar and restaurant remain a safe bet when everywhere else starts to close (ICA bar open until 1am most nights), since Eko Eshun has taken over as Director the quality of the ICA's programme seems to have severely dropped.
During a time when ICA's programme of talks could never be more pertinent given the political climate, the breadth and quality of speakers and discussions seems to have faded away.
Rather than setting the agenda within London's ever growing film festival scene, the ICA seem to be a rent-a-venue add on to whatever festival is taking place. While Hans Hoffman's curated shows lack any real bite or big names.
I love the ICA, but I feel that it now severely lacks any real direction, something which rests heavily on Eko Eshun's shoulders. I suggest, he spends less time tinkering with the logo and brochure format (two changes in less than twelve months) and more on the substance its shows and programme.
Royal Court Theatre, SW1W
Stunning Little Theatre 
Max J. says:
Took the chance to see the Pain and the Itch that one my friends has worked on as Assistant Director at the weekend.
The show we saw was excellent - great acting, sharp satire and lots of dark undertones which is always good.
I'd always assumed the Royal Court Theatre to be a large, stuffy/tacky West End style theatre with no leg room which last underwent a refurb in 1982, so I was very surprised to find the Royal Court to be a rather beautifully restored space.
Larger than the Donmar or Almedia, but retaining an intimate feel, the Royal Court also boasts a great cafe/bar. I'll definitely go back.
