Abigail’s Party, the classic comedy which illustrated the lives of middle class in 1970s, is presented with some local accents and expressions in Parish Hall, Ringinglow Road in Sheffield from May 3 to May 7.

Abigail’s Party starts off as Beverly invites over her new neighbours, Angela and Tony who just bought a house on the road, to attempt to help them on account of her class superiority. Among the guests also invited  is Susan who represents the upper middle-class, and her 15 year old daughter Abigail is throwing a party back in their house.

The play was originally performed on stage in 1977, directed by its author Mike Leigh.It was also arranged on the BBC ranking as the top 40 greatest TV shows on British television according to Radio Times poll in 2003.

Beverly ‘s husband Laurence comes back late from work, just before the guests arrive, and he can’t stand his wife, Beverly who continually flirts with Tony as the alcohol takes effect. But he is hen-pecked by his wife who dominantly decides which music or drink should be served for the guests. All of the fears, obsessions and prejudices are exposed within the simple framework.

It cost the Ecclesall Theatre Company about £1000 to organise the show without any pay for the performers, introduced by its Chairman Graham Millar.

“We do it because it’s our hobby, enjoying the light, the set and acting”, Mr Millar said.

The Cast

Sheffield-based Daniel Spivey, 32, who calls himself “international playboy” plays the role of Laurence in Abigail’s Party. He made his debut with the Ecclesall Theatre Company in February when he played the part of Harry in Jamaica Inn. Mary Smith, who went to watch the play last night, told that she was attracted by Daniel’s last performance.

Michelle Vinson who casts Angela also played in Jamaica Inn. Daniel joked about Michelle to be his wife as they cooperate successfully on the stage.  Michelle joined the ETC with her husband Jonathan in 2003.

Sara Green stars Beverley who has the most lines in the show, and  is also the mother of five who all play musical instruments. Her husband Stuart Green told that Abigail’s Party was Sara’s most favourite show.

Neil Drew, who plays the part of Tony, originates from Brighton and  moved to Sheffield in 2004 with his wife. Neil delved into Amateur acting about 18 years ago with The Waysiders Company

The role of Susan is played by Sue Preston whose precise emotions attract a lot of applause.  She is the headmistress of Clifford School alongside her role of Secrectary for the ETC.