Plays

The Way Old Friends Do Tickets

Duration

2 hrs 15 mins

Get ready for a side-splitting comedy at the Criterion Theatre, limited to a 4-week run. Book your The Way Old Friends Do tickets today!

Witness old classmates reunite as the world's first drag ABBA tribute band, touring with platform boots, fake beards, and dazzling charm. Can their enduring friendship withstand the trials of life?

Get the opportunity to celebrate everything queer in this heartwarming narrative of friendship and courage and hum along to ABBA hits.

The Way Old Friends Do is humorous and touching, with the talented director Mark Gatiss (Sherlock, Doctor Who, Dracula) at the helm.

This show is recommended for ages 14+.

Booking Period: From 17 August to 9 September 2023

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Fans of the musical group Abba may recognise the title of the drama, ‘The Way Old Friends Do’, as an allusion to one of their lesser-known songs, but Ian Hallard's lighthearted comedy is equally about the difficult friendships between gay people their age as it is about the pop group.

Peter, played by Hallard, is a middle-aged former librarian who has idolised the Swedish band since he was a young child. Through an unforeseen reunion with Edward (Anton Tweedale), a former school classmate, he is drawn into amateur dramatics. As Sally (Donna Berlin) stage-manages their performance on the am-dram circuit, they soon become one half of a gender-reversed Abba tribute act alongside the prim and proper Mrs. Campbell (Sara Crowe) and nervous babbler Jodie (Rose Shalloo). The skilled cast and crew are directed by the multi-talented Mark Gatiss (Doctor Who, Sherlock).

With a moving plot, beautiful performances, catchy tunes, gorgeous costumes, and amazing sets—The Way Old Friends Do has all the makings for an evening of entertainment. Why wait? Buy The Way Old Friends Do tickets today! The show will be held at the Criterion Theatre for a limited run of 4 weeks this fall.

The Story

In 80s Birmingham, two friends take a brave step – one comes out as gay, the other confesses his love for ABBA. Decades later, their fortunate reunion leads to the formation of the world's first drag ABBA tribute band. As they tour with flashy attire and captivating charm, will their enduring friendship withstand the challenges of life on the road? This touching story resonates with fans who understand the power of admiration, whether it's for ABBA, oneself, or others. Book your The Way Old Friends Do tickets today to witness this brilliant comedy!

Great For

Fans of ABBA | Comedy Lovers | Drag Show Enthusiasts

Show Details

Genre: Play

Duration: 2 hr 15 min with interval

Audience: Suitable for 14+

Opening Date: 17 Aug 2023

Closing Date: 9 Sep 2023

Theatre Name: Criterion Theatre

Theatre Facilities: Cloakroom, Bar, Restrooms

Dress Code: Smart casual

Cast & Crew

Leading Roles

Ian Hallard as Peter

Anton Tweedale as Edward

Donna Berlin as Sally

Sara Crowe as Mrs. Campbell

Andrew Horton as Christian

Rose Shalloo as Jodie

Voice Feature

Miriam Margolyes as the voice of ‘NAN’

The late Paul O’Grady as the voice of the ‘RADIO DJ’

Writer

Ian Hallard

Direction

Mark Gatiss

Additional Tips

Keep in mind, most London theaters are air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.