London vs. New York

For years now New York's 'Off Broadway' has been huge. Millions of people go to see their shows, and the scene commands a huge amount of respect. Why isn't it the same in London? People who go to Off West End shows regularly know it's as good- if not better- than Off Broadway. With its reputation for producing some of the best actors and actresses in the world, surely the London scene should have the same international recognition as it's cousin across the Pond! So, why doesn't it??