By Noël Coward; Directed by Jack Lester
Performance: 11th – 16th August 2025
Casting: 5th June 2025
A few years back I was given the chance to direct my first main stage play at the Green Room, Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit. So when I was approached to direct another of Coward’s works I was delighted. Present Laughter is a lighthearted farce. Based on Noël Coward himself, the play celebrates his legendary wit and larger than life persona.
Set in the 1940s, the story follows actor Garry Essendine as the star of the London theatrical scene at the height of his fame and adored by admirers – perhaps a little too much.
In the week before Garry is set to embark on an African tour, he encounters over keen fans; His best friend’s wife who is determined to seduce him, his ex-wife who tries her best to keep him on course, and his secretary who does not approve of his current lifestyle, as well as an impending mid-life crisis caused by his age.
Cast Required
- Garry Essendine – The man of the hour. Garry is a quick witted legendary actor. He’s prone to dramatic speeches. He believes himself to be the one who suffers the most, yet is the cause of all his problems.
- Liz Essendine – Garry’s Ex-wife who he is still close friends with. Liz is not amused by Garry’s current style of living but determined to stay by his side to keep him on track.
- Monica Reed – Garry’s secretary of many years, she too disapproves of Garry’s current reckless behaviour.
- Daphne Stillington – A young fan and admirer of Garry, she meets him at a party and spends the night due to losing her ‘latch key’ and is determined to prove that their fling is something more serious.
- Roland Maule – An aspiring playwright and obsessive fan of Garry’s.
- Morris Dixon – A producer and close friend to Gary.
- Henry Lyppiatt – Businessman and another close friend of Garry. A core member of the group.
- Joanna Lyppiatt – Henry’s Wife and new to the close knit group of friends, Happy to use her looks and charm to get what she wants.
- Fred – Garry’s valet, Seems to keep himself amused by getting to watch all the drama happen around with.
- Miss Ericson/ Lady Saltburn (Double part) – Miss Ericson is Garry’s eccentric, Scandinavian housekeeper. Mystical, spiritual, and has a tranquil madness about her. Lady Saltburn – A wealthy dowager and majestic society woman.
If you would like to make any enquiries about the parts or the play itself contact the director
Contact Details: jack.lester1993@gmail.com