Abigail's Party - play review

Mike Leigh’s dark comedy, which first hit the stage back in 1977, examines the social dynamics of a group of neighbours as they attempt to put all differences aside and enjoy the company of one another, with a few drinks in hand. Since it's premiere, depiction of the 70s itself has shifted from reality to a nostalgic past life for some; an unknown experience to others, merely recognised by much orange and brown, a rotary landline telephone, and mention of Angel Delight. However, the cheesy tropes were once close to reality, and Abigail's Party hopes to act as a voyeuristic insight into an evening that doesn't go without consequence.

Queen of the street and not afraid to show it, Beverly - played excellently by Tamzin Outhwaite - is keen to host the gathering, getting into the mood with a dance, beautiful dress on, and booze begun early. Her husband, Laurence (Kevin Bishop), seems more pre-occupied with work affairs, but obliges to the activity. New to the area, bubbly Angela (Lauren Patel) and her partner, a man of few words, Tony (Omar Malik) attempt to embrace the small talk before Sue (Pandora Colin), escaping the events of her daughter's party back home, enters to find herself particularly uncomfortable with the atmosphere.

Sadly, with as much substance as a cheese and pineapple hedgehog, Abigail's Party is limited to mediocre by its lackluster plot, only saved by the grace of some fabulous performances. While teasing a dabble into some interesting standpoints, its commentary on race, social class, marriage, women's rights and such are so lightly explored - perhaps in mimic of conversational tones, but not offering audiences any more to absorb. Moments prove amusing or borderline thought-provoking, but the surface-level discussion and little progression of narrative throughout the piece leave it dragging in parts. Despite this, the cast of five demonstrate nuance in their characters, drawing on their caricature-like qualities and adopting their personalities wholeheartedly to create a wildly messy cocktail of relationships.

In all, Abigail's Party leaves you questioning what more should've been done with the concept. The striking elements - being lured by the chat between characters and the reflection of the 70s lifestyle - work to some degree, but need a richer purpose to meet the satisfaction of modern audiences.