A revival of Mike Leigh’s classic Abigail’s Party at Stratford East is a farewell for the theatre’s artistic director, writes Neandra Etienne

actors on a stage set of a 1970s suburban living room — Abigail’s Party by Mike Leigh. Photo: Mark Senior

A banner reading 'Out and about with Neandra'

Newham Voices was invited to the press performance of Abigail’s Party by Mike Leigh and directed by Stratford East Artistic Director Nadia Fall. Abigail’s Party will be Nadia’s last show as artistic director at Stratford East.

When the curtain is raised the audience is transported back to the vintage 1970s and into the kitsch front room of Beverly and her husband Laurence’s suburban semi. Beverly is welcoming the new neighbours Angela and Tony by inviting them over for drinks and nibbles. They are soon joined by Susan from next door and it’s her teenage daughter Abigail, who is having the party.

It’s a drama classic and reveals how, after many drinks and with Demis Roussos on the record player Beverly and her guests soon begin to lose their inhibitions. This results in marital bickering, awkward dancing, flirty behaviour, uncomfortable moments and a shock ending for Laurence.

Abigail’s Party is on until 12 October. This the first show in the theatre’s 140th Anniversary Season.

www.stratfordeast.com

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