There are plenty of laughs to be had in the production of Abigail’s Party which finishes an extensive UK tour this week at the King’s.
‘Opts for out & out farce’: ABIGAIL’S PARTY – Touring
This touring production of Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party opts for comedy rather than tragicomedy at the Opera House Manchester, losing a little depth in order to find more laughs.
‘Prenger is priceless’: ABIGAIL’S PARY – Touring ★★★★
Mike Leigh’s classic Abigail’s Party is back in the theatre with its irrepressible hostess, Beverly Moss, handing out gin and tonics and cheesy-pineapple nibbles to the sounds of Demis Roussos.
‘Intense & painfully funny’: ABIGAIL’S PARY – Touring ★★★★
Intense and painfully funny, Mike Leigh’s classic comedy is given a new lease of life in this engaging and lively production directed by Sarah Esdaile that keeps the audience thoroughly engaged and entertained from start to finish.
‘Themes as relevant as they were 40 years ago’: ABIGAIL’S PARY – Touring ★★★★
I am old enough to have seen the original televised play for today of Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party in 1977 and have loved it ever since. Therefore, I was really looking forward to seeing Sarah Esdaile’s adaptation of this iconic piece and I wasn’t disappointed.
ABIGAIL’S PARTY – Touring
Abigail’s Party was quite ground-breaking in its day, with the incomparable Mike Leigh at the helm and Alison Steadman heading up the cast as Beverly, it made waves on screen and on stage. The production that is currently on UK tour keeps to the essentials that are familiar to those who have encountered the show before.
ABIGAIL’S PARTY – Touring
Strains of Donna Summer and Demis Roussos on the turntable, flock wallpaper and a retro bar, can only be setting the scene for Mike Leigh’s classic piece, Abigail’s Party. Devised and directed by Mike Leigh in 1977, the television incarnation starred Alison Steadman as nightmare hostess, Beverly and is an iconic masterpiece.
PHOTOS: Amanda Abbington stars in 40th anniversary revival of Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party
Theatre Royal Bath has today released production photography of the 40th anniversary, West End-bound production of Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party starring Amanda Abbington.
STEPPING OUT – Touring & West End
Stepping Out is very much an ensemble piece, no individuals character can be classed as the lead. It is clear that this all-star ensemble – including Amanda Holden and Tamzin Outhwaite – are very comfortable working together.