ABBA drag comedy The Way Old Friends Do to transfer to the West End

Exclusive: Hit comedy play The Way Old Friends Do will transfer to the West End.

The piece follows two former schoolmates who, after 30 years, have a chance meeting… and decide to form the world’s first ABBA tribute band – in drag. It received solid review during its Birmingham Rep premiere, with the piece then embarking on a major tour.

Under the direction of Mark Gatiss (Sherlock), the West End cast is led by Donna Berlin (Doctors) as Sally, Sara Crowe (Private Lives) as Mrs Campbell, Andrew Horton (Jupiter’s Legacy) as Christian, Anton Tweedale (The Mousetrap) as Edward and Rose Shalloo (Call The Midwife) as Jodie. Playwright Ian Hallard also takes on the role of Peter, while completing the company are Toby Holloway, Tariye Peterside and Joe Sargent.

Hallard said today: “After a wonderful four months of bringing laughter and tears to audiences right across the country, I couldn’t be more thrilled that The Way Old Friends Do is arriving in the West End. I can’t wait for us to entertain even more people with our tale of desire, devotion and Dancing Queens!”

The comedy will play at the Criterion Theatre for a limited four-week season, beginning on 17 August.

The production will also feature the voice talents of Miriam Margolyes and Paul O’Grady as Nan and the Radio DJ, respectively.

Janet Bird is the set and costume designer, with lighting by Andrew Exeter, sound by Ben Harrison and casting by Marc Frankum.