I've been a regular at BET for about 4 years now. Located in the heart of a housing estate, it's not somewhere you would find by accident, but there are road signs and a few elephant print shaped lights in the pavement to guide you there. Nearest tube station is Oval - it's a brisk 10 minute walk.
The theatre had a difficult transition period when AD Jasmine Cullingford left in 2013 after 7 years in the role, but co-ADs Niamh de Valera and Jo Sadler-Lovett have since found their own way and started programming some fantastic shows. Some of the best productions at BET are new writing, with a focus on plays rather than musicals. There are also quite often pure dance shows, which is a genre not all fringe theatres support.
BET does a lot of admirable work in the local community (i.e. Borough of Southwark), running free acting workshops for children and other educational projects to encourage inclusion. Concessions are available for senior citizens, students, unemployed, disabled and locals.
(Whilst it doesn't look wheelchair friendly, there's more than one way into the theatre and they can and will sort access if you need it. This little elephant doesn't leave anyone behind.)
The bar upstairs is generally open pre and post show and often has a free art exhibition in place. Always worth having a look. Drinks are cheap and you can take them into the show in plastic.
The staff and volunteers are absolutely lovely - you will feel thoroughly welcomed at this venue. Allow a bit of time to find BET the first time, but soon you'll be a regular and know the quickest way there without thinking! read more