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In the opening scene of the play, Beverly is preparing to host a drinks party for her new neighbors, Angela and Tony. She is annoyed that her husband, Laurence, has arrived home late from work and has forgotten to pick up the supplies she needs. When Laurence continues to prioritize work over their evening, her frustration builds. Meanwhile, Laurence ignores his wife’s nagging and instead makes work calls and arranges more meetings. When their neighbors arrive, Laurence is not ready and has
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START: LAURENCE [kissing her] Hullo.
BEVERLY Hi.
[Laurence puts case on armchair]
You’re late.
LAURENCE Sorry? [Laurence turns down the music]
BEVERLY I said you’re late.
[Laurence pours himself a scotch]
LAURENCE Yes: sorry about that - unavoidable.
[... …]
END: LAURENCE Beverly, where are the olives.
BEVERLY In the kitchen, Laurence. Laurence, if you want olives, would you them out, please?
[The front door bell chimes]
LAURENCE [jumping up] They’re early, aren’t they?
BEVERLY No, they’re not. And you’re not changed.
LAURENCE I know that. [He goes to answer the door] Beverly, get the olives.
Mike Leigh, Abigail’s Party & Goose-Pimples, Penguin, 1983. p.9-11
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