Show Name: Abigail Party
Directors: Jonathon Peters, Fiona McCarthy
Writer: Mike Leigh
Starring: Sarah Anne Brown, Jonathon Wyre, HayleyStockwell Davis, Philip Rogers, Angela Davis
East Essex Players invite you to dive into the prickly world of Mike Leigh`s ‘Abigail’s Party’, where a suburban shindig spirals into hilarity and havoc. Beverley’s garish lounge, filled with dubious snacks and clashing personalities, hums with nervous laughter and veiled jabs. Rediscover Demis Roussos and cheese and pineapple sticks and get ready for a night of 70’s satire that’s as uncomfortable as it is unforgettable.
In a new interview onBlazing Minds, ahead of the limited run of East Essex Players’ production of Abigail’s Party, I had the chance to ask actor Jonathon Wyre a few questions about his role as Laurence.
Q. You are playingLaurencein a new production ofAbigail Party at the Dixons Studio in Southend. What can audiences expect from the show?
A. Seeing how things were in the 70’s, but have things changed?
Q. Can you tell us a little about your character, and what it was that first drew you to the role?
A. A hen pecked husband who never thought he could get a glamorous wife, but against expectations did
Q. Despite being frequently ridiculed by Beverly, your character seems to take comfort in his own social standing. Do youseeany ofyour own personality in the character?
A. A bit. I think we’re both decent people although Laurence has had a lot of hope lost.
Q. Have you found any of the scenes challenging to perform?
A. Yes. I’m not a dancer.
Q. Whilst rehearsing, did the way you portray your character change from how you originally intended?q
A. No. I think poor Laurence was only to be portrayed one way.
Q. What have been some of your favourite moments whilst preparing for the play?
A The closeness of the cast.
Q. Whilst the play reflects 1970s Britain, do you thinksome ofits themes are still relevant today?
A. Definitely. Although they aren’t so openly discussed today.
Q. What do you hope people take away after watching the play?
A. That Laurence was a saint.
Q. What makes this production ofAbigail’s Partystand out from others?
A. The cast.
Q. Do you have any other projects which you are currently working on?
A. No
Q. If someone was looking to get into acting what advice would you give them?
A. Be prepared for it to take over your life.
Abigail’s Party will run at the Dixon Studio – At the Palace Theatre – Southend from Wednesday 8th July to Saturday 11th July 2026.
You can purchase tickets for Abigail’s Party on the Website or by contacting the box office on Tel. 0343 310 0030
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!