Ian Hallard and James Bradshaw in The Way Old Friends Do [Darren Bell]

ABBA fans are sure to enjoy Ian Hallard’s light-hearted comedy about two queer men deciding to mount a tribute band in drag, directed by Hallard’s husband Mark Gatiss.

Brummie Peter (Hallard) and Edward (James Bradshaw) meet again, by accident, via Grindr. They had been schoolfriends in the 1980s and came out together – Edward as gay, Peter as a diehard Abba fan – but lost touch.

Edward is in a long-term relationship but unsure of his true feelings. He drinks to mask his guilt. Peter is still working out how to tell his nan (voiced by Miriam Margolyes) that he prefers men.

When another Abba act cancels their slot at the local library theatre, they decide to try out their idea for one night only. They enlist the help of pianist Mrs Campbell (Sara Crowe), and Jodie (Rose Shalloo), fresh out of drama school and desperate to play any part she’s offered.

Peter makes a comely Agnetha in long blonde wig, blue eyeshadow and platform boots, while Edward revels in the opportunity to rehearse Anni-Frid wearing  an orange leotard. Sally (Donna Berlin) is their unflappable stage manager.

Their first performance is a success and they are offered more gigs. They’re on a roll until handsome stranger, Christian (Andrew Horton), gets involved, seduces both friends and drives a wedge between them.

There’s a distinct TV sitcom vibe to the evening and one yearns for a theatrical blast of their Abba act, but we remain backstage, in the dressing room or at Peter’s flat. Hallard is interested in exploring the friendship of two middle-aged queer men and demonstrating how music can console and liberate.

Despite a couple of performances occasionally leaning towards caricature, it’s hard not to enjoy this generous, tender play. Devotees will have fun spotting the Abba references and Hallard’s one-liners hit the mark. Janet Bird’s revolving set and fabulous costumes also deserve a special mention.

Until April 15
parktheatre.co.uk/