Abigail's Party | Royal Exchange Manchester

In this fresh adaptation of the Mike Leigh classic, Abigail's Party finds itself moving away from Essex to a Stockport setting, while still keeping the spirit of a suburbia social climbing party alive. The familiar cheese and pineapple skewers, along with ample gin and tonics, remain staples. Kym Marsh's distinct Northern accent in her portrayal of the abrasive Beverly shines as an elegantly dressed hostess, decked out in an elaborate, flowing evening dress, adding to the character’s glamor. This production delivers a steady stream of humour and masterfully examines the comedic absurdities of 1970s.

Under the direction of Natalie Abrahami and the keen eye of set designer Peter Butler, the audience feels like invisible witnesses, catching every uncomfortable moment of the guests’ interactions. The set cleverly physically lifts at the start allowing us to peak inside before closing after the dramatic ending. Presented in a circular stage format, there’s no escape as the beverages flow and the evening descends into chaos. Uniquely, when music plays the stage starts to revolve, accelerating the chaos. The stage set is an authentic homage to 1970s décor including a genuine leather couch and a silver-plated candelabra. Within this openness, the facade of party politeness pauses, revealing raw glimpses of aggression, biting remarks, and less-than-graceful displays of nausea.

Graham Hawley is excellent as Laurence. His rounded shoulders and palpable frustration at being continually undermined by his wife ramp up the tension. Kyle Rowe effectively uses his height and physical strength to embrue Tony with a raw sense of alpha authority. A man of few words in the first act, yet he commands his wealthier neighbour and dominates poor Laurence. However, Hawley fights back as he attempts to connect with the women over art and literature and makes a clear jibe about the new tone of the area. The interaction between the men is extremely interesting to watch. Plus Rowe, with his broad shoulders and bulging jeans adds something more physical that makes Beverly’s interest all the more believable. The audience is laughing one minute and silent the very next when he grabs his young wife’s arm menacingly.

The references to nurses pay, class dynamics and changing neighbourhoods are as appropriate as every in a Manchester which is gentrifying and pushing locals out of the housing market.

Those who have seen this modern classic before should be reassured that this production is given a new northern voice. Supported with very effective set design, a steady flow of laughs throughout, a stella cast and a dramatic ending. A must see and thoroughly deserving of 5 stars.

Abigail's Party runs at the Royal Exchange theatre in Manchester until 24th May 2025.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Johan Persson