Step Behind The Stage
The Big Bite-Size Show
The Pleasance Theatre, London - 07/03/25
Review by Alex King
After tremendous success at the Edinburgh Fringe, The Big Bite-Size Show is in London for a limited run. The evening consisted of eight short plays, each written by a different playwright, performed by the same cast of eight actors. This format allowed for a showcase of fresh ideas, strong performances, and a delightful variety of tones. Upon arrival, guests were treated to complimentary strawberries, a playful nod to the show’s Fringe tradition, and seated at cabaret-style tables that created an intimate and inviting atmosphere.
The first play, Home by William Knowelden, opened with a trio of astronauts finally confronting each other before facing the world. Knowelden’s tight script set a high bar for the rest of the night. This was followed by Thir Air, a monologue about a tightrope walker, performed by Emma Bean. Her thoughtful and grounded performance, paired with Tom Coash’s imaginative script, made the short piece feel immersive and dramatic.
Next, Vintage saw Hana Vincent and Scott Virgo portray a couple living perpetually in the 1940s, their idyllic life fading. Lucy Kaufman’s script, informed by her experience as a therapist, balanced comedy and genuine emotion perfectly. Act I closed with The Interpreter, in which Stephen Povey shone as a hapless interpreter caught in chaos between two international ambassadors, with Andy Bell and Will Neame supporting him. Jonathan Kaufman’s fast-paced script kept the audience engaged throughout.
Act II opened with Capturing Annabelle by Rachel Welch, a 15-minute accidental kidnapping story featuring Hana Vincent and Will Neame, whose chemistry brought the scenario vividly to life. Transactions, by Scott McAteer, explored the complexities of a lonely man and a sex worker, with the performers delivering nuanced, compelling work.
The Rehearsal, Michael Kalendarian’s piece, featured Scott Virgo practicing what to say to an ex, only for events to spiral. Virgo’s performance perfectly captured the cringe and vulnerability of his character. The night concluded with A Quiet Table for Four by Philip Linsdell, in which a duo on a date contends with their cynical inner voices. The four actors in this piece created palpable chemistry, and the comedy derived from relatable, internalized doubt.
The concept of the show—eight short, varied plays—might sound simple, but the performances were invested and fully committed, making each story memorable despite their brevity. The actors’ chemistry, timing, and versatility made the evening a delightful, high-energy experience. Even with a new batch of plays and writers taking the stage next week, this cast promises more laughter, insight, and entertainment.
Performers on the Night:
Emma Bean - Various
Andy Bell - Various
Will Neame - Various
Stephen Povey - Various
Hana Vincent - Various
Scott Virgo - Various
Lucy Kaufman - Various
Jonathan Kaufman - Various