Writer: Mike Leigh
Director: Nadia Fall
We enter into the world of Abigail’s Party with the dazzling Beverly dancing atop a table, the room filled with the sparkle of a disco ball and music blaring. Snap to reality, and we find ourselves in a 1970s living room as Beverly prepares for guests. Her highly strung husband Laurence arrives home late, followed by her new neighbours Tony and Angela, who are still settling in and Sue, who’s lived on the street for many years. An evening of jibes, sexual advances and cheese cubes ensues.
Mike Leigh’s classic British play was first performed in 1977. It so clearly captures a time whilst still reflecting current day too: nosey neighbours that you’re not sure whether are your friends or enemies, socioeconomic changes and financial pressures, and, most potently, the dangerous fear of change and immigration. The trope of terrible heterosexual marriages in which neither partner is really fulfilled or having a good time, but they still somehow love each other, prevails. But with all this, Abigail’s Party is no doubt a comedy, full of laugh-out-loud moments and vibrant performances.
Nadia Fall’s production gives an incredibly strong sense of time, hurtling us into the 70s while generally giving a modern point of view. Fall has found the perfect tone for the piece as it spins from pure comedy into darkness. The first act ends with some wanting more, but by the second act it lands.
Peter McKintosh’s design sits within a box, giving a voyeuristic feel, as if we’re the audience of a sitcom gone wrong. The warm woods and clashing orange patterns capture Beverly’s world perfectly and give an exciting backdrop for the actors to play against. The back half of the stage is somewhat curiously cut off due to the hyperrealism of the set.
The set and story are enhanced by Howard Harrison’s lighting. The subtle design uses natural room lighting that shifts with the mood. Without noticing, we arrive at the end of the play in a total tone shift. Movement by James Cousins kicks off each act with a delicious dance number, entertaining as well as providing insight into the inner life of Beverly.
Tamzin Outhwaite is brilliantly cast as Beverly; she oozes charisma and flicks seamlessly from jest to cruelty, and Pandora Colin’s restrained Sue doesn’t need to speak a word for us to know exactly what she’s thinking. The ensemble of actors works together with ease, all bringing to life fully embodied characters.
Fall’s Abigail’s Party is a hilarious comedy with edge, breathing life into the well-known piece.
Runs until 19 September 2026
