REVIEW | The Way Old Friends Do, Birmingham Rep

★★★★★

Reviewer - Roni

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

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Please note this production contains flashing lights and haze.

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Historically, the words ‘Abba’ and ‘theatre’ as a combination has gone down pretty well with the general public. I’m not sure there’s anyone who hasn’t at least heard of Mamma Mia, let alone seen the movie or stage show. So The Way Old Friends Do, the latest offering of Abba-related shows has some pretty big platform boots to fill. Does it deliver? Abba-solutely! (Sorry…)

Written by and starring Ian Hallard, and directed by Mark Gatiss (we love it when spouses create together), The Way Old Friends Do follows Peter and Edward, school friends who are brought back together by a chance Grindr match after not speaking for more than 20 years. Back then, Edward was flamboyantly and firmly out of the closet, while Peter trusted his best friend with his own biggest secret… he’s a massive Abba fan. A now much older, wiser and comfortably bisexual Peter jumps at Edward’s suggestion to form an Abba tribute band to help out a friend, with a slight twist in the tale meaning they’ll be donning the wigs and blue eyeshadow to perform as Agnetha and Frieda. After finding their Benny and Bjorn, what started as a one off gig turns into a full blown tour when photographer Christian spreads the word on his Abba fan group. All that glitters isn’t always gold though, as Peter and Edward find a wedge driven between them that threatens the future of the group and their longstanding friendship. Is this truly the end for two who have shared so many of life’s defining moments?

It's clear to see the love that has gone into this production from the start, interspersed with tidbits of Abba trivia that only the most die-hard of fans would know and smattered with the band’s best-loved songs both obscure and well known. The set is minimalist, but incredibly clever, with a revolving centre semi circles giving way to scene changes but always spelling out a certain four letter word. The neon lights and thumping music also scream ‘discotheque’. Hallard gives a very tender performance as Peter, and you have to wonder how much of the character is truly acting. It’s refreshing to see, even in a play that revolves somewhat around sexuality and how dominating that can be throughout life when you are anything other than heterosexual.

Similarly, James Bradshaw brilliantly delivers an Edward who is unabashed and brazen on the surface, but as the story progresses appears to be battling with some demons of his own. Donna Berlin is just lovely as Sally, hard edged and soft centred, just as everyone’s best mate should be, while Rose Shalloo’s Jodie is beautifully naive and good natured. It seemed the audience was very appreciative of her asking permission for hugs, which speaks volumes for the way Jodie is written – the world needs more Jodies. Tariye Peterside is understudying Mrs Campbell, and she is the real (not – quite - dancing) queen of the whole show as far as the audience is concerned. Her comedic delivery is spot on time after time, and she has the room in stitches without even speaking. The whole show is a genuine hoot, and the necessary extended ‘hold for laughter’ breaks are a testament to that.

In summary, this is a must-see, Abba fan or not. With genuine characters, a fun yet heartfelt story, and just enough sequined jumpsuits to boot, it will have you walking away singing and laughing into the night. How could you resist it?!

The Way Old Friends Do is performing at Birmingham Rep until 4 March ahead of a tour. All information can be found on their website.

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