Abigail’s Party

London Classic Theatre present

ABIGAIL’S PARTY by Mike Leigh

It was 1977, the year of skin-tight polyester, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, and Saturday Night Fever. The Sex Pistols were storming up the charts, skateboarding was the latest craze, and Angela Rippon danced with Morecambe & Wise.

And at Hampstead Theatre in London, Mike Leigh and his cast were putting the finishing touches to Abigail’s Party, ferocious black comedy and landmark of twentieth century theatre.

In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the arrival of her guests. She and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony, and Sue. As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life begins…

Abigail’s Party was premièred at the Hampstead Theatre in 1977, with the role of Beverly being immortalised by Alison Steadman. A record sixteen million people watched its broadcast as Play for Today, underlining its status as a true modern classic and national treasure.

Directed by Michael Cabot.

REVIEWS

“Beautifully put together, razor-sharp and devastatingly effective…”
Imogen Usherwood – Broadway World ★★★★★

“Grab one of the last seats while you can. This is a party well worth going to…”
Euan Rose – Malvern Observer ★★★★★

“A timeless masterpiece that had its audience roaring with laughter…”
Bethan Moss – Varsity ★★★★★

“A riotous romp worthy of a West End stage…”
Emma Rowley – Curtain Call Reviews ★★★★★