Abigail’s Party

This iconic comedy drama returns to the London stage with former EastEnders star Kellie Shirley playing Beverly and Ryan Early (Lee Bryce in The Archers) playing her angst-driven husband Laurence.

Beverly and estate agent husband Laurence are happily ensconced and living the dream in suburbia. They know what records to play, what art prints to buy and what wine to drink. And Beverly just can’t resist the temptation to spread her knowledge and help improve the lives of their neighbours Tony, Angela and Abigail’s Mum, Susan. What better way to help out than to invite them all for drinks and titbits?

Abigail’s Party is Mike Leigh’s classic 1977 play that was first developed through lengthy improvisations, a style which became the hallmark of Leigh’s future success in film and TV.

It first ran at the Hampstead theatre for 104 performances and was due to transfer to the West End but instead it was whisked into a BBC TV studio and the subsequent broadcast quickly became a cult classic, often hailed as one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

It’s the ultimate 1970’s comedy of manners as new-found suburban pretensions emerge and social aspirations abound. Sit back and relax as the gin is poured, the cigarettes are lit and Demis Roussos hits the turntable forever and ever. It’s the party to end all parties and you’re all invited!