Freelance performer, Sam Chara. Photograph: Kavita Kanwar


Hidden beneath London Bridge, often mistaken as a mere hole-in-the-wall, until you catch a glimpse of the burly security guard, Shunt is a lounge and theatre company that teases the artistic senses...

Stepping through the door of Shunt immediately conjures various images in the mind; whether it be entering the London Dungeon, a mad scientists' lab or a portal into the underworld. The lounge, located on Joiner Street, at the mouth of the London Bridge tube station but soon to be relocated due to large development in the area, is built within the railway arches. Its inconspicuous entry could fool the mind as being an apparition.

Shunt, owned and managed by a collective of 10 artists, is the epitome of escapist art - an enigma of sorts. Inside a long graffiti-decorated corridor with odd chalk marks branches off to various hidden rooms that hold everything from installation art, random performances, live music and an overflowing bar. For instance, one of the rooms, named Speak Easy, allows the public and featured artists to freestyle vocal acts. Shunt essentially caters to the needs of those who desire an alternative venue to party, relax and experience an eclectic range of art.

The lineup of events - always eclectic - is subject to change every week. Last Saturday (30 May), for instance, an exhibit titled the Unholy Alliance by Eleanor Barrett and Nahum Mantra comprised about 30 different artists who strutted their stuff within the four walls of Shunt. Performing in Speak Easy on the same day was Vivian Coma and their greek electro-acoustic regime. Visitors could also ogle at an installation of the traditional English seaside holiday, with water effects projected on the wall.

Most interestingly, Jessica Levy, an employee and actor, set up a mock zombie-themed matrimonial service titled Mātrimōnium Odde Fokkening. "It was an idea that simply popped into my head and at my suggestion the company decided to feature it. It just seems to be a fun thing to do - have a make believe wedding!" she said, dressed as a very old witness of the tying of the knot and ring bearer.

Another notable performance was provided by Sam Chara, who showed off her talent as the elusive Dutchess of the cabaret."I am a Virgin!" she shouted.

Shunt comprises funky gothic unisex restrooms and the smokers' alley and exit behind being named Panic Street, and remains in sync with its clandestine persona. With a helpful staff of almost a 100, the atmosphere remains fun and entertaining despite some of the debauched schemes exhibited. It would therefore be a great shame when it is forced to find a new home.