Abigail’s Party at Stratford East brings Mike Leigh’s classic 70s satire roaring back to life with a pitch-perfect blend of comedy, tension, and retro charm. Directed by Nadia Fall, this production captures the brilliance of suburban angst, and the cast is nothing short of stellar.
The set in Abigail’s Party isn’t just a backdrop – it’s a character of its own. Every retro detail heightens the absurdity, mirroring the escalating tension between the characters as their facades begin to crumble.
Keeping Up with Beverly: Abigail’s Party Captures Suburban Chaos at Its Best
Tamzin Outhwaite’s Beverly is absolutely magnetic. She rules the stage as the brassy, larger-than-life hostess, and every line she delivers is dripping with passive-aggressive charm. Her strained, turbulent marriage with Kevin Bishop’s Laurence is beautifully performed, and the tension between them keeps the audience on edge throughout. Bishop, in turn, delivers an outstanding portrayal of a man quietly crumbling under the weight of his wife’s flamboyance.
The guests – played by Ashna Rabheru (Angela), Omar Malik (Tony), and Pandora Colin (Sue) – are just as compelling. Rabheru’s Angela is hilariously awkward, adding a naive energy to the group, while Colin’s Sue remains coolly reserved, all of them bouncing off each other in ways that are both funny and painfully real.
Peter McKintosh’s design of the set is simply a feast for the eyes. The moment the curtain (or house) rises, you’re whisked back to the 1970s. The bold wallpaper, garish patterns, and mismatched furniture are the epitome of suburban middle-class excess – a physical representation of Beverly’s attempts to impress.
The set is as much a character as the actors, capturing the desperation for status and the “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality. It sets the perfect backdrop for the increasingly uncomfortable interactions, where every detail – down to the cheese and pineapple hedgehog – screams 70s kitsch in all its glory.
Final Thoughts ★★★★★
From a Queer perspective, Abigail’s Party digs deep into the performance of identity. The characters are trapped in a world where appearances matter more than truth, something Queer audiences can relate to all too well. Beverly’s over-the-top persona and the simmering tensions at the party mirror the pressure to conform to societal expectations – whether you fit or not.
Watching these characters unravel under the weight of trying to “keep up” feels both painfully funny and achingly familiar to anyone who’s ever had to put on a front to blend in. It’s social chaos with a Queer edge.
Would I recommend Abigail’s Party? Absolutely! This production is a riotous, cringeworthy masterpiece, balancing laughs with moments of unbearable tension. The cast delivers impeccable performances, and the retro set ties everything together in the most vibrant, visually stunning way. Whether you’re familiar with the play or a newcomer, this version at Stratford East is an absolute must-see.
Playing at the Stratford East, until 12 October 2024.
Disclaimer: Ticket was purchased without any association or endorsement from the theatre.
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