Theatre Review "Abigail's Party" at the Theatre Royal Newcastle
Welcome to the 70's Walking into the auditorium of the Theatre Royal I was hit by a faint odour. I recognised it as the smell of the 70's. The smell you may encounter if you open a drawer in an old dresser that once contained polyester blouses. The smell of an uncomfortable brown leather 3 piece suite that forces the occupants into an unnatural slouch. The stage was a sea of beige, no, "camel". Not a plain surface anywhere and always shades of brown, fawn or "camel". Luurvely! An excruciatingly funny look at a suburban "soiree" hosted by the insecure, frustrated, exhibitionist housewife Beverly. Grasping desperately at her and her estate agent husband's wealth relative to their neighbours', Beverly, played by Hannah Waterman, tries unsuccessfully to steer the gathering into the "sophisticated" cocktail party she wants it to be. Instead, the situation becomes increasing uncomfortable as drinks are pressed on the guests Susan (t...