Welcome to a tea party you'll never forget, as Alan Ayckbourn's classic comedy of manners and social embarrassment serves up a slice of deliciously black humour in the West End this January.
When Colin loses his fiancée, his married friends invite him round for comfort over tea and sandwiches. As the tea starts to pour, it's clear that trouble is brewing with a wickedly funny blend of jealousy, infidelity and barely concealed loathing. Tension starts to boil and maybe Colin isn't the one who needs help... with friends like these, who needs enemies?
Directed by the critically-acclaimed Jeremy Herrin, Absent Friends stars an astonishing cast of comedy talent from the worlds of stage, TV and film: David Armand (The Armstrong and Miller Show), Elizabeth Berrington (In Bruges, Waterloo Road), Katherine Parkinson (The IT Crowd, Season's Greetings), Steffan Rhodri (Gavin and Stacey), Reece Shearsmith (The League of Gentlemen, Betty Blue Eyes) and Kara Tointon (Pygmalion, EastEnders, Strictly Come Dancing Winner 2010).
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square
Access description: Level access from street to Dress circle via ramp at the entrance and level platform to seats.2 steps up to double doors opening into the foyer. All stairs are highlighted and have handrails on both sides. No steps from the foyer to the back of the Dress Circle (2 steps between rows). 24 steps down from the foyer to the Stalls, 23 steps up from the foyer to the Royal Circle (with 2 steep steps between rows) and 50 steps up to the Balcony.
Sound Amplification: Infra-red system with 6 headsets. Headsets available from the Duty Manager. You will be asked to leave a credit card or a £10 deposit. Portable loop available in Box Office. Guide Dogs: Guide dogs and hearing dogs are welcome at the Comedy Theatre. They can stay with you during the performances, however, you must inform the Box Office when booking your tickets and a seat on the aisle can be reserved for you. Alternatively, a member of staff will care for your dog during the performance. Disabled Access: 4 wheelchair spaces in Dress Circle. 2 transfer seats in E5 and E17
Toilets: There is no adapted toilet. It may be possible to use the toilet on the left-hand side of the auditorium, down 6 steps via a ramp and through 2 doorways, approx. 64cm wide. Women’s and men’s at Stalls, Royal Circle and Balcony. Please note, the men's toilet on the Royal Circle level is only accessible via 13 steps up from the Royal Circle Bar.
Disabled Toilets: No adapted toilet