Mike Leigh's classic play Abigail's Party will open on Wednesday (22 July) at the Gatehouse Theatre.

The Stafford Players will be bringing the show to life with all the comedic charm of the original version.

Stafford Nub News caught up with director and principal cast member Andrea Keady to find out more about what has been going on behind the scenes.

Andrea has been a member of the Stafford Players since 2017, starring in and directing a variety of fabulous productions as well as being the society's chair.

Speaking about the show, Andrea said: "I think a lot of them [audience members] will know it because, unlike the vast majority of things that we do, it's been on television, which is kind of a blessing and something to watch out for.

"It helps that people know it and it's famous but then they've got something to directly compare it to.

"Obviously, you've got the iconic Alison Steadman, who played Beverley in the TV adaptation, who was married to Mike Leigh at the time, who wrote it.

"So you do give yourself something very powerful to live up to but at the same time, it's great to be working on such an iconic production."

Andrea told us that in rehearsals there have been lots of laughs although the production has run into a few difficulties along the way.

The show's relatively small budget means that the production team have had to get creative with props and costumes sourcing much of what is seen onstage from local charity shops such as Katharine House Hospice.

They have also borrowed pieces from New Vic Theatre and Lichfield Costume Hire to give their version of Abigail's Party an authentic 70s feel.

Andrea says that much of the Stafford Player's success is due to the dedication of its members, who are willing to work round the clock to make shows happen.

She herself stepped into the role of Susan at short notice.

Formed in 1943 to distract from the hardship of the Second World War, the Stafford Players continue to provide entertainment and be a creative outlet for many locals.

Andrea says that although we are no longer at war, the world can be "quite a tough place" and that being part of or attending the theatre is a great form of "escapism" and that it has something to offer that can't be gained by streaming a TV programme or film at home.

Abigail's Party will run at the Gatehouse from 22-25 July.

Buy tickets here.

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