The Way Old Friends Do, York Theatre Royal, June 2023

The Way Old Friends Do concludes its UK tour at York Theatre Royal. But is it a super (trouper) of a show, or all a bit of a drag? Expect more puns (Mamma Mia, Here I go Again!)

Although I wasn’t Bjorn until 1985, I’m no stranger to the musical magic of ABBA. Super-fan Ian Hallard has written this new comedy, billed as ‘ABBA meets drag’ in a tale of devotion, desire and dancing queens. Partner Mark Gatiss – of League of Gentlemen, Dr Who and Sherlock fame – directs.

The plot centres around reunited schoolmates Peter and Edward who stumble on the idea to establish the first ever drag ABBA tribute act. They’re joined by excited wannabe actor Jodie, rehearsal room pianist Mrs Campbell and ‘not-a-thesbian-lesbian’ stage manager Sally.

The cast all give solid performances. As well as penning the script, Ian Hallard plays Peter, and his love for ABBA shines throughout. James Bradshaw’s Edward is both funny and poignant, and the relationship between the two is sincere.

Some of the biggest chuckles come from simpering Scot Mrs Campbell (Sara Crowe), who has an almost Mrs Doubtfire like quality at times. She’s not as worldly wise as the gender-bending gents, and it’s a treat to see her eyes opened to all that dressing room smut and innuendo.

Eager-to-please Jodie (Rose Shalloo) is effortlessly likeable, and Donna Berlin’s Sally has bags of feisty attitude, but also plays the role with a caring warmth for her cast. Later, photographer Christian (played here by understudy Toby Holloway) joins the travelling troupe. No spoilers but his character has multiple facets, and Holloway clearly relishes the role.

For a show that promises ABBA and drag though, we personally didn’t feel there was enough of either. The play is peppered with interesting ABBA facts, and the occasional blasts of hit songs during scene changes, but we see hardly any of the concert that the troupe have put together. There’s the anticipation of their first gig, but then as an audience we don’t get to experience any of it, save for a brief walkdown in full costumes later.

Knowing Me (Knowing You) I’d have liked to have seen more variety, with the action switching between the band’s performances on stage, and time backstage to further the story.

That being said, the show is tender and heartfelt. The story is engaging and the cast all work hard to keep the momentum going. There are occasional laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of low key titters throughout.

Special mention must go to Janet Bird’s set design. ABBA is spelled out in towering letters, revolving during scene changes to make clever use of the pop-group palindrome!

With a suggested rating of 14 plus, the show features adult themes and humour based on sexuality, race, gender and even politics. The running time is 2 hours 10 minutes, including an interval so you can nip to the (Water)loo.

Will you have the Time of Your Life? Maybe not, but if you’re looking for a heartwarming tale of reunited friendships with gentle comedy throughout…this is right on the Money, Money, Money.

MAGIC RATING