Film & Theatre, Reviews | Posted on November 20th, 2025 | return to news

Abigail’s Party

Broadstone Players Theatre Company, Broadstone War Memorial Hall

Review by Marilyn Barber

Such has been the success of this play since it was first performed in 1977, that it is a huge challenge for this company – but they pull it off.

It tells the story of Laurence and Beverley who decide to entertain their new neighbours Angela and Tony as well as Susan, whose 15-year-old daughter Abigail is having a party next door.

And it isn’t the get-together that anyone would like to be invited to, as the conversation is fatuous and at times embarrassing.

Stepping into the shoes of Alison Steadman, who was in the original production as Beverley, is a big ask for any actor, but Lisa Claxton makes a very impressive debut with this company in the role. Her delivery is punchy and she gets under the skin of the character from start to finish. Beverley considers herself to be the “hostess with the mostess” but she fails on all fronts, forcing her guests to have too much alcohol and cigarettes making them agree with her views.

Chris Hugill said his character as Beverley’s husband Laurence called upon him to be boring — a trait he joked he could easily identify with! However, he puts a lot of energy into the role as he is knocked down at every stage by his overbearing wife.

Sue Spencer and Scott Bedwell team really well as Angela and Tony. She can’t stop her inane talk and he is monosyllabic.

Sue Gibson evokes much sympathy as Sue, Abigail’s put-upon middle-class mother, who finds herself at odds with her neighbours’ ideals and behaviour.

There are lots of moments of humour in this play, which has an innovative ending to send the audience away with a smile of satisfaction on their faces.

Take a bow directors Stella Henney and Hannah Tointon for a good evening’s entertainment. It runs until Saturday 22 November and tickets are available from Broadstone News, via 01202 678449 or from: honesec@broadstoneplayers.co.uk.

The company’s next production is ‘Deckchairs’ from 24 to 28 February.