Present Laughter

Play

Writers: Noël Coward

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
Number of Acts
3
First Produced
1942
Genres
Comedy
Settings
Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
Garry Essendine’s London flat, 1940s
Cast Size
medium
Ideal for
College/University, Community Theatre, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Male
Casting Notes
Mostly female cast
Includes adult, young adult, mature adult characters

Synopsis

Present Laughter is lighthearted farce that celebrates playwright Noel Coward’s legendary wit and larger-than-life persona. Based on Coward himself, actor Garry Essendine is the star of the London theatrical scene at the height of his fame and adored by legions of admirers--perhaps a little too much. Fans regularly throw themselves at Garry’s feet, drawn in by his charm and charisma, throwing his household into chaos. In the week before Garry is set to embark on an African tour, he is forced to juggle a besotted young woman with stars in her eyes, an unhinged young playwright obsessed with being in Garry’s presence, his best friend’s wife who is determined to seduce him, his manager, his producer, his secretary, his estranged ex-wife, and an impending mid-life crisis as his 40th birthday looms ever closer.

Lead Characters


Present Laughter guide sections