'Abigail’s Party' in the modern age

City Lit tutor's successful adaptation of 'Abigail's Party' This modern-day adaptation of Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party, directed by City Lit drama tutor Petina Hapgood, received rave reviews when it was performed at the Clock Tower, Croydon in January. The lead role and supporting actors were all played by past and present City Lit students.

Abigail’s Party, written in 1977, is a suburban situation comedy of manners and a satire on the aspirations and tastes of the new middle class that emerged in Britain in the 1970s. However, Petina’s adaptation of the play meant the story became more relevant and engaging to the audience.

City Lit’s Principal, Peter Davies, went along to the performance and commented, “Gaby Finer (Beverly) and Alix Martin (Ange) had to stay in very different and challenging characters throughout the play, which they did superbly - making for a most entertaining, at times hilarious, but always captivating performance. Their capturing of mannerisms as well as script was excellent.

“Will O'Conell (Lawrence), Daniel Rodrigues (Tone) and Sue Ferguson (Sue) played three very different characters, all of which were very well played and added spice and variety to the play.

“Many sitcoms fall flat because of lack of pace or lack of belief in the characters or poor timing, but most definitely not this one and credit must also go to Petina for yet again pulling off a first class play, which frankly was much better than a couple of recent West End plays I have seen.”

Firstly performed in Camden, the play went on tour and then finished at the Clock Tower in Croydon. Petina, who is not only the director of the show, but also director of the production company Goodmann Productions, said, “With fantastic reviews, this has been a highly successful and profitable venture for the actors and the company; and one that shows the wealth of talent at City Lit.”

Goodmann productions will be staging The Killing of Sister George later in the year, in which Petina is leaving her directorial role to play George, and the City Lit will again feature highly.




Story added 5th February 2010

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