London Classic Theatre presents

Abigail’s Party

Tue 25 – Sat 29 Apr, 2023 Archive
In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the impending arrival of her guests.

It was 1977, the year of skin-tight polyester, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and Saturday Night Fever.  The Sex Pistols were storming up the charts, skateboarding was the latest craze and Angela Rippon danced with Morecambe & Wise. 

And at Hampstead Theatre in London, Mike Leigh and his cast were putting the finishing touches to Abigail’s Party, ferocious black comedy and landmark of twentieth century theatre. 

Beverly and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony and Sue.  As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life begins… 

Abigail’s Party was premièred at the Hampstead Theatre in 1977, with the role of Beverly being immortalized by Alison Steadman.  A record sixteen million people watched its broadcast as Play for Today, underlining its status as a true modern classic and national treasure. 

Venue

Main House

Overview

Time: 7:30pm & 2:30pm
Performance duration: 2 hours 10 mins
Age guidance: 14+
Advisories: Contains strong language

Trailer

Abigail's Party Video Trailer

Cast

Beverly

Rebecca Birch

Susan

Jo Castleton

Angela

Alice De-Warrenne

Tony

George Readshaw

Laurence

Tom Richardson

Creatives

Author

Mike Leigh

Director

Michael Cabot

Set & Costume Designer

Bek Palmer

Lighting Designer

Matthew Green

Production Manager

Helen Samways