ABIGAIL’S Party is well remembered by many for the stage play, which then transferred to television on Play for Today in 1977. Mike Leigh’s comedy play focusing on the manners of a group of people, who hardly know each other and their middle-class lives. Now, delightfully, London Classic Theatre has brought it back to the stage.
The set instantly places us in the late 70’s with a range of G-plan furniture, a drinks cabinet and a record player, with a range of LPs. Beverly, Rebecca Birch, is ready to have a group of friends round for drinks as she places nibbles around the room, including nuts, crisps and of course cheese and pineapple on sticks. The drinks are ready and she’s prepared the music. Her husband, Laurence, Tom Richardson, is an estate agent, he isn’t as interested in meeting up with neighbours, but constantly pleases Beverly, becoming more neurotic in manner throughout the evening. The first guests bring Angela, Alice De-Warrenne and her newly wedded husband, Tony, George Readshaw. They’ve just moved into the street. Alice is excited to meet new friends and certainly enjoys the chance to let her hair down with a few drinks, Tony is very quiet, initially, using one-word answers, he appears very shy, but becomes quicker tempered and irate towards the second half. The final guest is Susan, Jo Castleton, when arriving, it’s clear she was expecting a dinner party, not just drinks and nibbles.
As the drinks flow, the group begin to get to know about each other. Tensions rise, Beverly flirts with Tony, music comes and goes. Topics cover music, art and books, as the drinks flow even more and difficult situations ensue.
The cast are exceptional throughout. Its been a while since I have been so captivated throughout. Tom Richardson’s facial expressions and movement, are amazing. Some of the best scenes from Alice De-Warrenne are just sublime. They all clearly work brilliantly together. Making this a must-see production due to the incredible cast.
Abigail’s Party runs until Saturday 17th June
