Review | Abigail's Party | Royal Exchange Theatre | 09/04/2025
- Jonathan Rawlinson
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Premiering in 1977 at Hampstead Theatre, Abigail’s Party has since become a modern classic, perhaps best known through its much-loved television adaptation. Royal Exchange Theatre has revived it as part of its Spring/Summer season, and it is as sharp, hilarious, and painfully relevant as ever.
Whilst the play is about ‘a’ party, we never meet Abigail herself, nor do we see anything of her party. Instead, we find ourselves down the road, in the living room of Beverly and Laurence Moss, who are hosting a drinks party for new neighbours Angela and Tony. Reluctantly, Abigail’s mum Susan is there seeking refuge from her daughter’s teenage gathering.
Wonderfully relocated from the south to Manchester, it otherwise remains true to its roots. Director Natalie Abrahami wisely resists the temptation to modernise, choosing instead to embrace the era’s kitsch charm. Although it is set in a different time to now, it is impossible not to see people you know in the characters, proving how similar classism still resonates today.
As the play progresses, we slowly learn this is so much more than a simple comedy. Its genius lies in its subtlety as we slowly start to see the cracks emerge between the characters. What begins as light-hearted satire reveals itself to be a deeper look at insecurity and class conflict. It is as funny as it is uncomfortable, which makes it a truly gripping watch.
Kym Marsh steels the show completely as Beverly, with impeccable comic timing. It is impossible to take your eyes off her as she exudes an unknowing snobbery that will have you howling with laughter. From reassuring guests that it is an informal gathering whilst dressed to the nines and offering a never-ending list of refreshments, it is clear that she is out to impress.
The nervously timid nature of Angela is not just brought out by Yasmin Taheri’s wonderful characterisation, but with the tense interactions with her pig of a husband, Tony (Kyle Rowe), who has an uncomfortable hold over her. With Tupele Dorgu and Graeme Hawley completing the cast as Susan and Laurance, there isn’t a weak link in this stellar cast.
Whilst initially unsure how this show would work in the round, it was the perfect setting. Clever set design by Peter Butler transports us into the Moss’s 1970s home, managing to somehow show multiple rooms without affecting sightlines nor feeling overly complex. You really feel as if you are at the party, with intimacy at the heart of this production.
It is as charming as it is tragic, and is by far the funniest production the Exchange has staged in years. With Abigail’s Party, Royal Exchange Theatre is well and truly back on top as one of the best producing houses in the north.
Abigail's Party has already been extended and is on at Royal Exchange Theatre until Saturday 24 May 2025.
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a show is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.