Branded “Undesirables” and transported to Camp Gurs, they find themselves among thousands of prisoners held by the state that once promised them refuge. As German forces advance, each woman must confront an impossible choice: stay and hope for liberation, or risk her life to escape into a dangerous and unknown future.
Blending satire, physical theatre and cabaret, The Banality of Evil draws on archival research and testimony to reveal forgotten histories of women caught between exile, imprisonment and survival. At its centre is a pivotal moment in the life of 33 year-old Hannah Arendt that would later inform her writing on power and human rights.
A world premiere from writer and director Julia Pascal (Blueprint Medea; Crossing Jerusalem).
📍 Venue Description:
The Arcola Theatre is an Off West End theatre located in the London Borough of Hackney, founded in 2000 by artistic director Mehmet Ergen. It hosts numerous plays, operatic performances and musicals featuring up-and-coming talent, as well as eminent artists. Every year, the theatre showcases many original works and new age productions, as well as world drama pieces and classics. Situated on Ashwin Street, Dalston, this iconic venue has two rehearsal studios, two studio theatres, and a café-slash-bar.
Welcome to the Arcola Theatre
The Arcola theatre runs one of the largest arts engagement programmes in East London, creating many opportunities for the local community. Since its establishment, it has functioned as an important platform for launching many world-famous theatre actors, playwrights, and artists. It is also on its way to becoming the first carbon-neutral theatrical venue in the world, as part of the Green Arcola project. The theatre offers people from all walks of life the opportunity to enjoy quality entertainment at reasonable prices. It has won many prestigious awards over the years for its contributions to the artistic community.
History of the Theatre
The Arcola Theatre was originally situated in an Arcola Street textile factory but had to move to the current Ashwin Street location in 2011. It has been integral to the British theatre landscape for two decades, enjoying an eventful journey with many milestones over the years. The theatre hosted The Factory Girls by Frank McGuiness on its fifth anniversary. It celebrated its move to its current location with a premiere of The Painter by Rebecca Lenkiewicz. The awards it received include two Peter Brook Empty Space Awards, and the 2003 and 2006 Time Out Live Awards.
A co-production of Mojo Mickey by playwright Owen McCafferty was the first of the theatre’s West End transfers to the Trafalgar Studios. In 2007, the theatre also hosted the first season of Grimeborn, an annual musical theatre and opera festival held for two weeks in August. Another significant milestone in the history of the theatre is the launch of the Arcola Queer Collective in September 2014.
Have a Great Time at the Arcola Theatre!
A visit to the Arcola Theatre is a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts and tourists alike. It is among the best Off West End theatres in London, offering a vast array of events throughout the year. You can catch a play or an elaborate musical theatre experience in the company of your family and friends. Ticket prices are quite affordable, and the theatre features a convenient layout as well as comfortable seating. The intimate studio setting also gives viewers an interesting perspective along with the unique ambience offered by the theatre.
Theatre enthusiasts can enjoy contemporary and classic pieces on the main stage at incredibly close distances from the performers. The Grimeborn opera festival in August is a great time to catch some standout performances. Enjoy a great evening with your loved ones at Arcola Theatre.
🌟 Step into a world of wonder at The Banality of Evil: Hannah Arendt, France, 1940, where extraordinary moments await! 🏛️ Located at Arcola Theatre in dynamic London, EN, this event will become the talk of the town. 📅 Join us on October 8th, 2026 at 07:00 PM for a celebration that defies the ordinary. ✨ This curated experience brings together the best of entertainment, culture, and community spirit. Every detail has been thoughtfully planned to ensure an unforgettable experience for all our guests. 🎯 Take advantage of this opportunity to be part of something special. 🎟️ Tickets are available at 25.00 GBP. 🎊 Early registration is recommended as space is limited!
Event venue
Arcola Theatre, 24 Ashwin Street, Dalston, Arcola Theatre, London, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.