What's On Entertainment Previews

STAGE
Eyes Down, Pens Ready, Hackney Empire

Using a Lincolnshire pub as a backdrop this observational comedy from Broken Leg Theatre takes a sideways look at everything form internet dating to free parties.

The piece aims to encapsulate what it is to live in a small town and how the smallest of things become the biggest of deals when friends get together over a few pints.

It’s the night of the weekly pub quiz and tonight the stakes are high with a possible £500 cash prize.

Four friends slog it out against locals, as the quiz, headed up by Karaoke Dave puts friendships to the test as old rivalries and loves lost rise to the surface

Feb 13-14, 9.30pm, £12.50 (£10), 020 8985 2424, hackneyempire.co.uk, Rail: Hackney

STAGE
The Fix, The Albany

Politics, adultery, drugs and power all feature in this musical romp from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.

Popular Presidential candidate Reed Chandler dies in bed with his mistress.

His power-hungry wife Violet thrusts their pot-smoking son, Cal, into the political spotlight and, along with her scheming brother-in-law Grahame, she intends to do everything she can to ensure her boy reaches the top of his game.

Violet and Grahame successfully guide Cal to a seat on the City Council and then the position of Governor. But then Cal gets mixed up with the wrong people. Expect a satirical comic musical.

Feb 12-21, 7.30pm, £10 (£6.50), 020 8692 4446, thealbany.org.uk, DLR: Deptford Bridge

STAGE
...Presents Richard II, Greenwich Theatre

Rather than simply re-imagining one of the Bard’s works, this takes Richard III as a jumping off point for its plot.

The African Company Presents Richard III is set in New York in 1821. Based on historical events it follows two competing theatre companies performing the tragedy. 

The African Company, the first African American theatre troupe in the United States, has announced its production of Richard III.

A rival white producer has imported a renowned English actor for the same role. He fears competition and gets them shut down.

A mighty clash of wills ensues resulting in riots in the streets of New York.

Feb 17-21, various times, £17.50 (£10.50), 020 8858 7755, greenwichtheatre.org.uk, DLR: Greenwich

STAGE
Mad Blud, Theatre Royal Stratford East

Mad Blud is a piece of theatre that seeks to get to the heart of the apparent increase in knife crime amongst young people by telling authentic untold stories behind the headlines.

Created by Philip Osment and based on real people and real situations, the tales are taken from recorded interviews with east London people whose lives have been directly affected by knife crime.

The play, which is directed Dawn Reid, was originally performed as part of the International Festival for Emerging Artists last year.

Each performance will be followed by a discussion of the issues raised.

Feb 18-28, various times, £5, 020 8534 0310, stratfordeast.com,