London

Its cool blue neon lights, front-of-house café and occasional late-night shows may blend it into the Soho landscape, but since taking up residence on Dean Street in 2000 Soho Theatre has made quite a name for itself. It attracts a younger, hipper crowd than most theatres, and brings on aspiring writers and youth theatre companies. Productions tend to be quite issue-heavy, but the occasional left-field promenade work and a strong comedy line-up add a daring sparkle. Over the last few years Soho Theatre has become one of the best places to see comics breaking free from abbreviated club circuit sets to present more substantial solo shows. British and international talent has included Russell Brand, Michael McIntyre, Kristen Schaal and Doug Stanhope and drag and cabaret acts such as Kiki and Herb.