Abigail’s Party at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Elaine Hatch

On Wednesday 9th April 2025, I had the pleasure of going to watch Abigail’s Party at the Royal Exchange Theatre in the centre of Manchester. I had not previously seen the televised version of Mike Leigh’s creation from the 1970’s so I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, the production, directed by Natalie Abrahami, didn’t disappoint, capturing the essence and feel of 1970’s suburbia.

Based around a drinks party at Beverly and Laurence’s home, the play delves into troubled relationships and unwinds beautifully as the party guests get ever tipsier.

Beverly is brilliantly played by Kym Marsh, who manages to deliver some brilliant laugh-out-loud lines and comedic pauses, all whilst looking stunning in a 70’s floaty dress and proceeds to get wonderfully drunk. At the other end of the scale, she also manages to portray such unhappiness in her life as the bored housewife of Laurence, played by Graeme Hawley, who works hard to maintain their lifestyle.

The other guests are Susan, who is the mother of teenager Abigail, who’s party is in full swing across the road. Susan, played by Tupele Dorgu, is divorced and raising her children alone, a reserved lady, obviously uncomfortable at the party, but is very polite, even when her refusal of further drinks is ignored.

The other couple at the party are newcomers to the area, Tony, played by Kyle Rowe, and Angela, played by Yasmin Taheri.

A young couple, married quickly, and seemingly in love at the start, however, the cracks in their relationship start to show through as the party progresses, with Tony exposing himself as a less-than-ideal husband in many ways. A couple of gasp moments from the audience demonstrate how 70’s behaviour is so far removed to today’s societal values within relationships. 

The play weaves around the relationships and sadness of all the characters. Beverly, bored with her life, makes a beeline for the new neighbour Tony, with hilarious, completely unhidden drunken attempts to flirt outrageously with him.

Laurence, class-driven, shows his frustration with his materialistic wife, tries to impose his love of classical music and art on the gathering, but to no avail, resulting in much anger and frustration. Tony, so controlling towards his wife Angela, and her attempts to appease him to avoid upset or conflict within their relationship.

And Susan, divorced and bringing up her two children alone, coping alone within the group of people she finds herself in.

The setting, in Beverly and Laurence’s living room is gloriously 1970’s “chic”, with an old record player which plays some tunes from that era throughout the party, resulting in some very funny, and excruciating to watch, dancing scenes.

Played out on a stage in the centre of the theatre, the cast expertly move around the stage to ensure the audience get great views of the play, helped by the occasional revolving of the stage when music is playing.

Overall, a great production, kept true to the original 1970’s themes and Kym Marsh is outstanding as Beverly – it’s a play of its time and expertly demonstrates life and relationships in 1970’s middle-class suburbia.

Rating: 5/5

Abigail’s Party runs until 24th May 2025. There is an age guidance of 14+

Tickets prices range from £25 – £50 dependent on date/time of your visit and a number is accessible performances are also scheduled throughout the play’s run.

For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www.royalexchange.co.uk

Royal Exchange Theatre, St Ann’s Square, Manchester, M2 7DH