Reinventing Classics for a Modern Audience
Jack Bradfield, recipient of the 2023 RTST Sir Peter Hall Director Award, expresses his excitement for his production of Mike Leigh’s cult classic comedy, Abigail’s Party.
I’ve had a long, life-changing relationship with the Rose, and this year I’m taking my first production to the main stage. It’s a huge task, but thanks to the incredible team in this ground-breaking theatre, I’m ready.
When Christopher Haydon took over as Artistic Director in 2019, my company, Poltergeist, were lucky enough to become Associates at the Rose. We’ve developed new work here, rehearsed in their fantastic rehearsal space, and received invaluable support and advice.
The Rose has helped me make my way as a director. They encourage me to take risks, and embrace the theatre I want to make: big, bold, popular, cutting-edge stories; reinventing classics for a modern audience and bringing them up to date.
"I’m ratcheting up the awkward,
the inappropriate, the unbearable,
and the plain strange"
So, it’s time to take a leap with Abigail’s Party.
Mike Leigh’s savage suburban comedy is ready to dance wildly into 2024. I’m ratcheting up the awkward, the inappropriate, the unbearable, and the plain strange, and staging the play in a new and unexpected way. Get ready for the worst night of your life.
I can’t wait to see you in November at the Rose for my directorial debut on the main stage.
Photo by Steve Gregson
First published in August 2024
ABIGAIL'S PARTY
A Rose Original Production with Northern Stage, Colchester Mercury Theatre and ETT
Beverly, the queen of suburbia, is hosting a cocktail party. Next door, 15-year-old Abigail is throwing a party of her own.
No one can stop talking about Abigail’s Party. No one can stop thinking about Abigail’s Party. Something must be done about Abigail’s Party.
Supported by a grant from The Royal Theatrical Support Trust
Abigail's Party played at Rose Theatre from 5 - 16 November 2024
