Are you a devout W1-er disillusioned by gin-hazed nights at passé clubs? Are you tired of the lines at Wagamama and for the life of you can't think of something to do this weekend? How about taking the DLR to Mudchute writes Kent de Pinto...
So what's in Mudchute? A farm, million-pound gated condos, a perfectly nice river walk and, in the middle of it all, a funky little bohemian oasis called The Space. This old converted church is part community centre, part performance space, part semi-organic restaurant, and it's one of those places that you always mean to get to, but never get around to it.
This is why, upon first hearing about it in February, we finally ended up there in May. We're not lazy but let's be honest; geographically, for a night out, Mudchute seems like the equivalent of Tajikistan. Actually, our reluctance was unfounded, because it wasn't all that hard to find, since as soon as you get off the DLR, all street signs point to The Space.
Once there you'll find a former church sanctuary housing the stage while upstairs is home to a little loft of a restaurant called Hub-Bub. There are many good things to say about Hub-Bub, although upon sitting down to eat you become immediately cognizant of the fact that you're the only person eating who isn't also working/opening their new showcase there. The food, like the clientele, is artsy and a little flaky. The menu is creative, but not too creative, so feel free to bring your conservative friend without fear of having to define "spelt". The portions are big and you can order chips and bangers if it's been that kind of day, or you can live la vie boheme and order the garlicky bliss that is the homemade houmous. The menu also offers some more creative creations such as wild rabbit braised in cider with rosemary for those of you who are feeling a bit more carnivorous.
Despite the tempting pre-theatre food the sanctuary of the old church is where the real action is. The room hosts an array of different musicians, comedians, performance artists and cabarets on a weekly basis. It also serves as a place where new talent can try out their material before they take it on the road for bigger audiences. (This is also where marmaLADYa discovered the coolest thing to hit feminist theatre - The Little Black Dress Project) which is performing at the Space July 18 and all for a ticket of around £7, you'll be questioning why you didn't leave Mayfair sooner.
For more on the rich history and what's next at the Space check out www.space.org.uk
