The cast of Abigail’ s Party, most famously starring Jodie Prenger and Vicky Binns, graced the Nuffield Southampton Theatres stage this evening. Mike Leigh’s epically nostalgic comedy features everything you’d expect from an awkward cocktail party, hosted by a newly emerging middle class couple. With cheese pineapple, Bacardi and coke and, perhaps iconically, Demis Roussos, this play has become a satire for the aspirations of the newest social class in the 70s. Directed by Sarah Esdaile, this play explores comedy in a whole new way, whilst allowing reminiscence. "You know what I mean, Anj?"
The 5 person cast, each characteristic of a differing stereotype, created an eclectic performance centred entirely in quondam beautician, Beverly’s, living room. The intimate box set, including a 3-piece sofa and accompanying pouf, made for a highly effective voyeuristic performance. The fitted carpets, warm integral lighting and focal drinks cabinet: constantly present in the productions of G&T’s [with ice and lemon], provided the audience with insight. With the circulating fumes of tobacco, I’m positive many audience members were left feeling nostalgic.
The performance was naturalistic and each actor perfectly suited to that role, with special acknowledgement for Rose Keegan, playing highly strung Sue. Keegan created a paragon introvert through just the lilt in her mellow voice. Most notably, Jodie Prenger, Beverly, created comedy genius, waltzing about, singing Paul Anka and bombarding her guests with nuts and nibbles in an effort to become ‘the perfect host’. Combined with the continuous, “can I get you another drink”, this evening of small talk seemed to resonate with many of the audience, for me, my Grandmother’s infamous annual Christmas party.
30 years on and Abigail’s Party has just about kept up. However, with the loose story line and specific jokes, this is not a timeless play and arguably its market will discontinue with its generation. There is only so many times the same joke can be repeated and, as a young adult not alive in the 70s, I found it boring at times. Unfortunately, this play is directed at a rather small niche market. Saying this, the audience watching found it hilarious and, despite being 50 years younger than the second youngest viewer, I still had a fabulous evening.
However cringe, this unsettling comedy is deemed a must-see! If you were part of the golden age of vol au vents and pineapple and cheese sticks you really have no excuse!
Reviewer - Grace McNicholas
on - 11/2/19
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