Tamzin Outhwaite takes on the iconic role of Beverly in Abigail's Party, Mike Leigh's acclaimed black comedy and razor-sharp portrait of suburban Britain in the 1970s. Set in Essex in 1977, the play follows Beverly and her husband Laurence as they host an evening of drinks for their neighbours. With the wine flowing, music playing, and appearances carefully maintained, what begins as polite conversation soon unravels into a night of awkward encounters, flirtation, and simmering tensions that no one can escape.
Both hilarious and painfully revealing, this modern classic explores social class, materialism, and the fragile dynamics of marriage and friendship in 1970s England. Following a sold-out and critically acclaimed run in 2024, this revival of the Stratford East production is directed by Nadia Fall and showcases the enduring brilliance of Leigh's unforgettable comedy of manners.
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Audience Latest Reviews
Reviews Summary based on 21 reviews
General:
What to expect Acting: Music: Costumes: Story: Lighting:
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Relatively funny
Abigail’s Party was good and relatively funny, although I wouldn’t say it was laugh-out-loud hilarious. I felt the characters could have exaggerated their personalities a little more to make the comedy stronger. For example, Beverly could have been more openly flirtatious from the very beginning, while Angela could have been portrayed as more of a submissive wife and Tony as more controlling.
I also think the contrast between Beverly and Laurence could have been made more obvious. For instance, Laurence could have spoken and behaved in a more distinctly “posh” manner, which would have heightened the difference between the two characters.
I’m also not entirely sure why Abigail’s party itself was so central to the play, as Abigail never actually appeared. Overall, I felt that the play lacked a certain depth and could have pushed the characters and their relationships further.
Meritha, 26 Aug 2026
Funny but very thoughtful regard to relationships
Excellent display of non compatible couples
Janis, 23 Aug 2026
Absolutely brilliant.
As good as the original, 2nd time in a few weeks and would go again if I had the time.
Michael, 23 Aug 2026
1970’s revisited
Fantastic acting by all the cast, takes you back to 1977 and nicer times. Very authentic set and costumes. Would recommend it to anyone
Karen, 23 Aug 2026
Wonderful a triumph!!
I absolutely loved it !!
The whole cast was amazing Tamzin was incredible
as Beverly picking up and making the part her own,
not a homage , incredible acting!!
The set was bang on , I loved it and would highly recommended anyone to go and see it !!
Five stars 🤩 👏👏
Timothy, 19 Aug 2026
As relevant as ever
Wonderful reprise of one of the great pieces of 1960-70 theatre
Kerry, 19 Aug 2026
Tamzin’s performance is A star!
Tamzin’s performance was exceptional! All the cast were brilliant. The music was great, the story was fab and the theatre is sweet and staff are so friendly! Had a great view from the stalls.
Marie, 16 Aug 2026
Amazing!
Saw this play yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed every second of it. The acting was phenomenal and drew you into Beverley’s world. What a treat!
Karen, 16 Aug 2026
absolutely fantastic
After seeing the original play, we was wondering if could match it. It was just as good. The whole cast was amazing, Tamsin Outhwait was amazing.
Jenny, 12 Aug 2026
Absolutely superb performance
I highly recommend everyone sees this show. Tamzin Outhwaite was superb as Beverley. The whole cast were amazing.
Juliet, 12 Aug 2026
There are better plays that need reviving, outdated
I love Mike Leigh , this play was important at the time, but not anymore
Orna, 12 Aug 2026
Abigail’s Party
It was my first time at the Theatre Royal , Stratford and I was charmed straight away by the size, decor and period features. I had seen the play before back in the seventies with Alison Steadman so it was a hard act to follow. I needn’t have worried though as Beverley was depicted brilliantly- a very funny play, full of sexual tension. I LOVED it!
Susan, 11 Oct 2024
Be prepared to cringe, to laugh and to be embarrassed.
All four characters are just so good. Facial expression, the lot. Enjoyed every minute.
