 " Nana 's Party " was the first episode of Inside No. 9 to be written , but it was shelved when BBC executives instead suggested that it worked as the first episode of a sitcom . Pemberton and Shearsmith revisited and modified the script during the writing process for Inside No. 9 's second series . The writers aimed for a feeling of suburban darkness reminiscent of the work of the playwright Alan Ayckbourn , while commentators compared the episode to the work of the playwright and screenwriter Mike Leigh , particularly the play Abigail 's Party . The story addresses themes including alcoholism , extramarital affairs , aging and social class . Television critics responded positively to " Nana 's Party " , which was praised as a typically @-@ strong instalment of Inside No. 9 . Particular praise was directed towards the writing and performances , especially Skinner 's performance as Angela , Ashbourne 's performance as Carol and Shearsmith 's performance as Pat . 
