THE Torch Theatre at Milford Haven is inviting people to a drinks party from hell! - namely 'Abigail's Party', a black comedy by Mike Leigh.
Presented in collaboration with the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and directed by Peter Doran, the action of this classic satire of '70s surburbia takes place in the living room of Laurence and Beverley's home: 13 Richmond Road, on a typical surburban estate in North London in 1977.
This was the year that Demis Roussos was at the top of the pop charts, a second class stamp cost just 7p and 'Saturday Night Fever' was turning John Travolta into a huge star.
Laurence is an overworked, totally stressed-out estate agent - under pressure both in his job, and from his high-maintenance wife, Beverley. They decide to hold a small drinks party at their plush home as a get-together for their neighbours. At first, good will and small-talk abound, but as the drink starts to flow, the comedy turns dark as conflicts and hatred emerge.
Mike Leigh's dark comedy was an overnight success which has become an enduring classic, partly thanks to Alison Steadman's ghastly but inspired portrayal of Beverley, but mainly because of the brilliant writing which succeeds in inspiring laughter and unease simultaneously.
'Abigail's Party' can be seen at the Torch from Thursday - Saturday, May 29 - 31. Tickets, £7 (£5.50 discount), may be purchased from the box office on 01646 695267.