London Classic Theatre have announced a new UK and Ireland tour of Mike Leigh’s classic comedy Abigail’s Party, which opens at Theatre Royal, Winchester on 1 March 2023.

The production will also visit Lowestoft, Chelmsford, Warwick, Doncaster, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Bromley, Derby, Lincoln, Southport, Perth, Inverness, Oldham, Cork, Eastbourne, Darlington, Exeter, Bury St Edmunds and Malvern, concluding in Wales at Venue Cymru on 15 July 2023.

The production is directed by Michael Cabot, with design by Bek Palmer, and lighting by Matthew Green.

In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the arrival of her guests.  She and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony and Susan.  As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life begins…

Artistic Director of London Classic Theatre, Michael Cabot said: “We’re delighted to be launching our 2023 season with this iconic play.  Abigail’s Party is a wonderful mix of acute social observation and laugh-out-loud awkwardness.  Mike Leigh’s script, famously devised with his original cast, is an absolute treasure trove for actors and directors alike.  The characters may seem larger-than-life but there is an extraordinary undercurrent of nuance informing their actions and behaviour.  I’m currently in the early stages of planning with Bek Palmer, our set and costume designer, and it’s always terrific to see her vision for the piece take shape.  The play is set in 1977, so we are spending a lot of time delving into the fashion and interior design of the period, which is a treat in itself!”