Batman, Mephistopheles and Hair-dye

Thirty-two one act plays in two weeks.

Depending on who you are, this will either sound like a blessing or a curse. In all, honesty, I wasn't too sure in which camp I sat when I climbed the endearingly rickety stairs of the Tabard Theatre in Turnham Green, clutching my pint and a bewilderingly long programme trumpeting Lost Theatre's 23rd One Act Play Festival.

No, I didn't sit through all thirty-two; but the three I saw convinced me that, time and money-permitting, the rest would certainly be worth a look. Witty and imaginative, these three pieces, Just Dad (Alex Clay), an extract from a modern-day Faust, and Amy Rosenthal's excellent Henna Night, all sparkled with energy, sharpness and thought. A far cry from the shades of university drama which so often haunt productions on the fringe, each amply earned its third of the £11 entrance fee.

The Festival continues until Saturday 28th April when prizes for the best new writing, best direction and best play will be given. Drop by if you can. You won't be disappointed.