pick of the week

Soup

There's a huge cast in Michael Mears's virtuoso show and they're all played by the author. The first winner of a fringe first at this year's Edinburgh Festival, the show was such a red-hot ticket that even critics were turned away in the scramble for seats.

Lyric Studio, London W6 (0181-741 2311), Road to Nirvana

A corrosive, comical slice of Hollywood life bursting with satirical intent and inspired silliness. Michael Taylor's designs are suitably tasteless, and Justin Greene's production keeps a tight rein on the proceedings and wins strong performances from a talented cast.

Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh (0131-228 1404) Three Tall Women

The glorious Maggie Smith dominates Edward Albee's return to critical and popular success. An elegant game of past and present with wonderfully wintery writing. The final exquisite five minutes are worth the price of admission.

Closes Saturday. Wyndham's Theatre, London WC2 (0171-369 1736)

Company

Marriage goes under the microscope in Sondheim's marvellous urban musical. Tart lyrics, a cracking score and a cast including the redoubtable Sheila Gish and the wickedly talented Liza Sadovy.

Opens tonight, 7pm Donmar, London WC2 (0171-369 1732)